Radio Times: Review by:; Jane Anderson

There are thousands of rock guitarists, but only a few can be identified by their unique sound the second they begin to play. Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour and U2’s the Edge are obvious members of this axe-man elite. But there’s one overlooked member of the club — Hank Marvin.

The combination of his Fender Stratocaster guitar — the first of its kind in the UK — with his use of vibrato and echo creates an unmistakeable sound. This warm celebration has been made by his fans. That they happen to be fellow guitarists Jimmy Page, Mark Knopfler and Phil Manzanera just goes to show the esteem in which he’s held.

And it’s not just his musical accomplishments that caught their attention: both Page and Knopfler confess to copying the Shadows dance as teenagers, that slickly choreographed side-step and leg-crossing action that would be slightly tweaked for each song. And Jimmy has his own Spinal Tap moment when commenting on Hank’s physical resemblance to Buddy Holly: “He’s a god on the Mount Olympus of rock.”

This is a sheer delight: affectionate anecdotes from an impressive cast, mixed with really smart editing so that the star names get to ask Hank questions at his home in Australia. My sole criticism is that it’s too short. I want more Hank!

About this programme

John Sugar examines Hank Marvin's influence on a generation of guitarists, including Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page, Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler and Roxy Music's Phil Manzanera. Cliff Richard discusses importing Hank's signature red Fender Stratocaster from America, and the man himself explores some of the Shadows' best known tunes.