The fourth instrumental solo release from the Texas-based guitar master
finds Harris continuing to explore the world of metallic,
progressive-tinged rock. The brilliant opener "Prognosis" is a good example
of his many strengths: complex-but -melodic crunchy riffs, which lead into
playful Gentle Giant-ish quiet passages, and then into blindingly-fast and
rhythmically complex fusion passages. The drumming by Harris' brother Brian
is exceptional. Despite the varied styles, it holds together well and will
leave the listener exhausted but smiling, and it's only the first track.
This is followed by three consecutive cuts that feature drumming courtesy
of FUSE's own Mike Haid. "Neuro-Transmitter" features some flashy work from
Haid on the skins and nimble soloing from Mr. Harris. "Regroovination" has
kind of a Texas vibe to it that everyone from Stevie Ray to Andy Timmons
taps into with ease. Haid and the lively bass work of Adam Nitti keep the
song churning along like a fully-loaded locomotive, and Harris turns in an
especially memorable solo in the middle section. "Two Worlds Beyond," one
of the album's strongest compositions, has a nice 7/8 groove in the verses,
leading into a melodic sweeping chorus of multi-tracked guitars and with
Haid doing a nice double-time pattern on the cymbal. Great stuff.
Other highlights include the multi-sectioned "Voyage To Xyrethius," the
Texas boogie of "Eat Your Words" and the beautiful soundtrack-styled
closer, "A Soul's Torment," featuring some delicate acoustic guitars and
majestic keyboards over which Harris adds some emotional electric fret
wizardry.
Not just a guitarist showing off his solo chops, Sketches From the Thought
Chamber is a well-rounded, thoroughly enjoyable offering of strong
compositions and stellar playing. Along with, of course, a guitarist
showing off his considerable solo chops. Highly recommended.
The fourth instrumental solo release from the Texas-based guitar master
finds Harris continuing to explore the world of metallic,
progressive-tinged rock. The brilliant opener "Prognosis" is a good example
of his many strengths: complex-but -melodic crunchy riffs, which lead into
playful Gentle Giant-ish quiet passages, and then into blindingly-fast and
rhythmically complex fusion passages. The drumming by Harris' brother Brian
is exceptional. Despite the varied styles, it holds together well and will
leave the listener exhausted but smiling, and it's only the first track.