fter reading Michael Allison's review of this CD on his website The Global Muse (www.theglobalmuse.com), I knew that I had to hear this CD. I have this seemingly insatiable appetite for instrumental music, particularly guitar oriented rock. Denis Taaffe's "Modern Rock Guitar Volume II" is the second volume of instrumental works from this newfound guitar genius. It's a wonder where on earth these great musicians like Taaffe come from. Independent music is so exciting and vital. As far as I am concerned, it's the lifeblood of the Internet.
With a breathtaking combination of rock, jazz, and blues, Taaffe makes his instrument talk, and it has a whole lot to say. What you will hear is live in the studio, all of it. What makes it all that much more incredible is that the tracks are all done in one take. That is the mark of a true professional craftsman.
This guy is a real rarity in today's age of studio wizardry and technological enhancements. Taaffe layers the guitar parts, and what it ends up sounding like is a literal guitar army, but it's only him. He coaxes some unique tones from the six-string; you could easily be fooled to believe that you are hearing another instrument, like a synthesizer. The titles of each song are just what the doctor ordered. "Free," "Courage," and "Formations," serve as pathways to a vision that ultimately fit the words defined by the titles.
Music like this has to be heard to fully understand its impact. It's simply amazing.
fter reading Michael Allison's review of this CD on his website The Global Muse (www.theglobalmuse.com), I knew that I had to hear this CD. I have this seemingly insatiable appetite for instrumental music, particularly guitar oriented rock. Denis Taaffe's "Modern Rock Guitar Volume II" is the second volume of instrumental works from this newfound guitar genius. It's a wonder where on earth these great musicians like Taaffe come from. Independent music is so exciting and vital. As far as I am concerned, it's the lifeblood of the Internet. 