By: Mikolaj Furmankiewicz
hat did you do, if you couldn't find the right person for your music? Aforementioned American decided to record an instrumental music, haha. As a matter of fact, there is Iari Melchor who sang on one track, however Russ' solo debut was performed by instrumentalists: himself (guitars, programming, loops, bass) and Gus Bogeus (additional bass).
After getting familiarized with his first solo stuff, I know it was the only one and absolutely right decision. I am of that opinion because of the fact he is a guitar teacher at present, and studied with Joe Satriani himself in the past! Mr. Pettit's music is atmospheric, melancholic and calm enough what is especially audible in acoustic tracks. Generally, Russ plays quiet enough and melodic guitar-oriented music with intelligent arrangements. It means there aren't unnecessary gambits or redundant diversities. Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir" was powerfully amplified by him. Russ managed to pick out another spirit of this legendary track. He doesn't base the music on instrumental rock only, but also on classic rock, blues rock and even light music like on the only one vocal track "Leaving Home".
His entire gift for producing melodious tones was revealed on "The Endless Journey". Russ' instrumental concepts defend themselves, the more so because he is very inventive and can translate the ideas into the musical language very well. Although the instrumental guitar music is a fringe currently, it is worth listening to without doubt. Don't worry that "The Endless Journey" can be perceived by mainstream leaders as a naff album. The sincerity of Russ' solo work proves its real value!
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