was lucky enough to be afforded the opportunity to
review Rullian's debut CD, "Is This My Guitar or An
Albatross?", way back in 2002. As we move forward and
2006 comes to a close I am happy to have the pleasure
of reviewing Rullian's latest effort, "Chameleons In
Disguise."
As was indicated on "Is This My Guitar or An
Albatross" Raoul's creativity knows no bounds -
"Chameleons In Disguise" is more evidence of that.
Raoul has the skills and knowledge to exploit that
creativity into unique nuggets of musical sound. He
likes to describe his efforts as music for the
soundtrack minded - not that I disagree, but what I
hear is sonic ruminations melded and orchestrated into
joyful, often playful, songs. Sonic territory
explored includes everything from rave-ups, to
swinging jazz, to sweet ballads, to bouncing funk, to
quasi-techno outbursts, to various forms of world
music, and straight-ahead rockers - it's all included
on "Chameleons In Disguise."
Certain tracks herk and jerk like involuntary spasms -
and I mean that in the best way possible. Whether a
seamless transition or a deliberate attempt to infuse
the listener with juxtaposed sound, "Chameleons In
Disguise" begs to be heard. It's an imaginative tour
de force. I'm not culturally adept and I would be an
absolutely failure at "Name That Tune." As such, I'm
sure there are musical references to TV show themes,
commercial jingles, and other similar and familiar
melodies that just completely escape me at the moment.
Rullian's "Chameleons In Disguise" would be a welcome
addition to the CD collection of any fan who
appreciates instrumental music.
Support a good cause - all proceeds (not just profits)
from the sale of "Chameleons In Disguise" go to the
Humane Society.
Rullian is Raoul kicking ass at most everything.
Assistance provided by Charlie Alvarez on bass, Chris
Williams on bass, Luke Kelly on piano and keyboards,
Ann Hackman on violin and viola, Chris LeRoy on piano
and keyboards, and Will Bagby on drums and bongos.