The image on the inside of James Ryan's CD inlay book is the front of a super-hotrodded Torana bursting from a ball of flame. There could not be a more appropriate visual for for this explosive collection of a dozen songs,11 of which are instrumental. Uplifting, original and superbly produced, it's at once hard to believe this is the work of a relative new comer acting essentially alone, and an inspiration to anyone nurturing a secret control-freak dream to make a record with nobody else on it. Generally speaking, half the reason we don't see solo instrumental albums by very many people-let alone Australians - is that the CD ends up sounding like a massive wank and/or aesthetically non-existent, frequently at the same time. Yet the bravery and initiative that Ryan displays by striking out into this very risky territory is to be applauded - as is the fact that he unquestionably pulls it off.

With remarkably diverse songs featuring as many hallmarks of trancey grooves as Vai-esque floating-key mayhem, Ryan proves himself as a versatile and erudite musician. Yet he never over-intellectuallises the music, and despite the knee-weakening guitar aerobatics and maniacal FX traipsing, one cannot help but think he's exercising appropriate restraint at all times. Ryan names some of the greatest guitar legends of our time as his influences, and it must be said, that he has studied them well for in a double-blind (or should that be double deaf?) experiment, I'm confident Blown would hold its own against anything by the masters.

There is as much humour as colour on this album, and plenty of depth without Ryan ever getting morose about things. Songs such as "Racing" throw in unpredictable changes in scene, Nothing short of anthemic in size, while the ocean-breeze-like acoustic brightness of "Lifted" brings sunlight into the room even as I write this review at 1.47am. There are a few moments on the album area bit on the thin-enough-for-the-influences-to show-through side. However it could easily be argued that a guitarist of this caliber is well aware of what he is doing when he tips his hat to the great players of our time.

For reasons unknown, musicians creating an instrumental record seem to feel compelled to sing on at least one of the songs. Blown is no exception, however the natural and uncontrived way in which "House Hunting Blues" eases out may leave the listener with the impression that Ryan should include more songs with words in them in future, and not the other way round. Check www.ilovenoise.com for more info. Stand out tracks: The 'Glory", "Racing", "Lifted', "Take A Breath".