GONGZILLA
"Suffer"
(LoLo Records Lolo 003-2)
This may be the best guitar based fusion cd I've heard all year.
Gongzilla's debut album straddles jazz fusion and progressive rock.
If we had to compare this new disc to anything, though, we'd probably
mention Jean-Luc Ponty , Bill Frizell, or John McLaughlin. Allan
Holdsworth dominates the album with his innovative melodic style,
but gets a good run for his money from fellow guitarist, Bon Lozaga,
the leader of the ensemble.The tunes have an almost symphonic power
and breadth, with strong melodies and counterpoint lines and infectious
drum patterns. The great signal proccessing and engineering on the
album may also have contributed something to the riveting impression
the music makes.
And for all the lovers of technical guitar prowness, there's plenty
of firey guitar on every track, with electronic bass, and vibes
and marimba chugging away on a hot lead or two as well. The group's
bassist Hansford Rowe does some amazing stuff with his "just-intonation"
bass. Those of you who buy cds by unknown groups in fear of only
getting a couple of good tunes will appreciate the fact that the
mood and dynamic level are consistent from one end of the disc to
the other. And if you're into the subtleties of multitrack recording
and great arranging, there are lots of crisp details to grab your
attention. Highly recommended. Click
HERE for audio excerpt.
information: website; http://www.artist-shop.com/lolorec/
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