Nature magic - September 10

John Hackett, Steve Hackett and Roger King - the show in Ascona
Photo © Maurizio Vicedomini

Steve with Angela and Maurizio

Steve beside the mandala, Monte Verita

The Acoustic Trio comprising Roger King, John Hackett and Yours Truly, was invited to play in beautiful Ascona in the Swiss part of Lake Maggiore.

Jo and I arrived a day early, met by our friends Maurizio and Angela Vicedomini, who had organised the gig. Along with several interviews and local TV coverage, we also had the chance to visit the nearby Valle Verzasca where we walked on an enormous dam which featured in the James Bond film Golden Eye. Beyond that was really deep water that had submerged an entire village! We couldn't help thinking with a slight shiver about that ghostly place in its watery grave as we passed by. Weaving further into the mountains we finally reached the most extraordinary place, where an ancient Roman bridge was precariously supported by weird shaped rocks that were formed in the Ice Age. It was like a scene from an ancient saga where the intrepid hero meets bizarre mythological creatures!

The following day I was involved with the launch of Maurizio's beautiful book of photos inspired by Genesis music. The gig itself was held in the grounds of the Monte Verita Hotel where we stayed - a popular place in the 1920s for those into cosmic ideas, and to this day there is a winding multi-coloured path you walk on preferably barefoot, which has energy spots and ends up as a large mandala.

Something that struck me particularly about the stage for the show was the way the leaves behind were lit, creating the effect of a magical fairy glen. It somehow highlighted the music so that it sounded all the sweeter. The audience were warm and welcoming and the evening was a joy. It was great to see several good friends in evidence as well.

A very big thank you to Maurizio and Angela for their hospitality and for organising such a successful event, and our thanks too to Roger Salem for his help. An unforgettable experience in a special place.

Extraordinary rocks in Valle Verzasca

Steve and Roger Salem

Steve in front of the ancient Roman bridge