Michael Chapman-Fully Qualified Survivor (1970); acoustic folky singer/songwriter

'I've got no clue about how Michael Chapman only got to enter my musical universe at this point in time. But, well, things got their own way of happening, don't they? I picked Fully Qualified Survivor when browsing Amazon for ideas... God, you've got to love all these very real virtual connections! Being long introduced to British folk artists such as the Incredible String Band, Roy Harper, Nick Drake, Al Stewart, Tir Na Nog's great 1st album, Fairport Convention, Bert Jansch to name but a few, Michael Chapman was mysteriously unheard of by me - until now.

Recorded in a parallel world to Woodstock and Miles Davis' Bitches Brew in August 1969 and released early in 1970 on the Harvest label, Fully Qualified Survivor is a gem of the highest order, and I'm glad I got to know it in this lifetime.

From the slow beginning of Aviator through beautiful acoustic guitar instrumentals and songs like Postcards of Scarborough, Soulful Lady, Rabbit Hills, Kodak Ghosts and the percussive closer Trinkets And Rings, Michael Chapman's unique craft is there for all to hear - a highly distinctive voice, strong and fluid playing, and great songwriting with insightful lyrics.

Produced by Gus Dudgeon - the guy who also around that time produced David Bowie's Space Oddity - and introducing the undeniable talents of Mick Ronson on electric guitar, who would then join Bowie for the classic The Man Who Sold The World, this 2011 remastered Light In The Attic edition is the one to look for as not only it brings flawless sound but a thick, comprehensive booklet with lots of info. An excellent, most needed reissue which comes with a somewhat curious collectable sticker that states in bold letters, quote: "the perfect album for a lazy day and a joint".... (Amazon Review).

YouTube Sample-The Aviator