Michael Nicolella Review of "Shard" @ iTunes By: Francois Nicolas iven that Shard is already his fourth disc, it is regrettable that American guitarist Michael Nicolella is not better known. At ease with classical guitar and electric guitar and as a composer of some of the material he interprets, he gives proof of an original approach - as in his "Concerto for Guitar" or in his solo piece "Surfacing Through The Mire" with its surprising rhythmic effects. One is equally pleased to hear an excellent version of "Electric Counterpoint," Steve Reich's masterpiece, in which eleven guitars are 'orchestrated' here with instruments ranging from a Fender Stratocaster through a classical guitar and including a Martin D-18. "Shard," representing the later work of the great American composer Elliott Carter, is remarkably interpreted here, much as "Lullaby" by David Paul Mesler which displays Michael Nicolella's great musicality and technique. In a completely different approach, "Grey Angel" by Christopher DeLaurenti explores the possibilities of the electric guitar and tape to create seemingly impossible sonic textures. But the most astonishing piece on the CD is the extraordinary "Grab It!" by Jacob Ter Veldhuis where the jazz-rock monologue of the electric guitar enriches the reading in a devastating duel of furious interlacing onomatopoeias of despair which reveal bit by bit a disturbing violence. This is an absolutely unforgettable and provocative piece within a CD that is innovative and superb. © Francois Nicolas / Guitare Classique Toccata And Fugue Guitar Concerto: Lilting (Passacaglia) Electric Counterpoint: III. Fast Grab It! Guitar Concerto: Forceful And Driving Surfacing Through The Mire