Straight Ahead introduces the world to a first rate shredder with a great repertoire of licks that are rooted in classic rock but step outside the box creating a nice eclectic mix of jazz and shred. An all instrumental offering Straight Ahead is a masterpiece of a first offering from a talent that should be heard.

Jeff has a predilection for melody and makes the most of this talent throughout the CD. All of the songs showcase this mighty talent and are structured in such a way as to allow a strong emotional connection from Jeff's playing to the listener's soul. Many of the songs put forth on Straight Ahead are in the vain of a Joe Satriani type composition with nods here and there to the likes of John Petrucci. A true guitar technician who can rip and tear with the best, Urso delivers mind boggling solo excursions that are always interesting and contain just the right balance between melodic sensibility and over the top shred. Jeff is a master songwriter who interweaves intricate musical passages with melodic backgrounds that are rife with feel and passion. Many of today's new guitarists are incorporating strong technical knowledge with emotional integrity and feel - a great combination that is elusive to most. Urso is a bright light within this new breed.

All tracks found on this fine release are worthy of ones attention - my favorites include:

"Feel Good" - a soaring acoustic / electric number that starts out with a great jazz riff on acoustic that later morphs into an electric interpretation on the same riff. A nice linier solo blends in with the main melody making this an interesting and easy listening experience.

"Low Down" - heavy driving melody ala Dream Theater. A nice intertwining of some Jeff Beck like jazz voicing thrown in for good measure. Short ripping soling with some high intense shred sequences.

"Down & Dirty" - call and response Satriani like romp that burns from start to finish and contains a heavy rhythm background along with some smoking solo excursions that give this track a heavy rock vibe.

"Cyber Me" - modern approach combining techno sounds with a great rock vibe. A spectrum of accompanying guitar noises and harmony runs make this the most accessible track on the CD. Some great straight up rock soloing with the odd shred lick just to keep you on edge.

Urso is part of the "New Breed" of guitarists out there who bring a complete package to the table. He incorporates the requisite palette of shred chops combined with melodic song craft. Urso is one of those rare musicians who seem to be blessed with god given talents that allow him to deliver a very diverse, emotionally charged offering that combines a wide and eclectic mix of guitar styles. Anyone who enjoys melodic song structure combined with over the top guitar textures will really enjoy Straight Ahead.