Verheyen; Carl: Mustang Run

Best known for his work with Supertramp, guitarist Carl Verheyen has regularly been releasing solo albums since 1988, with his latest Mustang Run, being an opportunity to "break out of the mould of Carl Verheyen Band CDs and do a Progressive instrumental album". Now I'm not sure about the use of the word Progressive, however what I am absolutely certain of is that with Mustang Run Verheyen has crafted a Blues and Jazz tinged, mainly instrumental, album which captivates through both its beauty and energy.

With a rotating cast of bassist and drummers, including the likes of Dave Marotta, Jim Cox, Walfredo Reyes, Gregg Bissonette, Chad Wackerman and Simon Phillips, not only are the performances of all involved kept universally high, but the diversity of the attack varied enough to really keep you gripped throughout. The energetic title cut shows this side of things perfectly, a vibe that wouldn't have been out of place on an upbeat Don Henley album infused with a real sense of purpose. "Passage To Run" on the other hand is a shimmering ride through almost Oriental remoteness, while "Taylor's Blues" is built upon exactly the type of authentic oomph its title implies. Unsurprisingly, for all the guest stars, it remains Verheyen who shines brightest across every track, his sumptuous tone and touch hitting the spot time and again whether the mood be restrained and reserved as it is on "Julietta And The St George", poignant and poised, as on "Last Days Of Autumn", or the full force of "Riding The Bean".

Add in a very cleverly rearranged and expertly sung version of the Supertramp classic "Bloody Well Right", where a smooth sax line courtesy of John Helliwell completely changes the focus of this well loved number, and really there is something for anyone with an eye for classy Blues inspired music driven by great guitar work.

On first impressions Mustang Run is a strong and versatile album however once you really let its joys seep into your pores, those emotions simply keep on getting stronger and stronger. The result is a collection of songs that you simply can't get enough of and an album that is made for repeat listens.

Track Listing
1. Taylor's Blues
2. Julietta And The St. George
3. Fusioneers Disease
4. Last Days Of Autumn
5. Amandola
6. Bloody Well Right
7. Riding The Bean
8. Passage To Run
9. Mustang Run
10. Fourth Door On The Right
11. Spirit Of Julia

Added: September 27th 2014
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Carl Verheyen online
Hits: 1547
Language: english

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