Mcgurk, Joe: Elements

UK guitarist Joe Mcgurk, a member of the progressive metal band Opposing Motion, has released his first solo album Elements.

For those of you who appreciate neo classical shredding and amazing guitar acrobatics, Elements will be a must purchase.

On the album Mcgurk also adds bass and is joined by drummer Kevin Deplanche. As the duo move through the four elements; "Wind", "Fire", "Water" and "Earth", dynamic shifts of rhythm and tempo serve to heighten the drama. Delicate acoustic guitar begins "Wind" before razor sharp blasts of Mcgurk's guitar unfold. The song ventures back to brief acoustic interludes followed by mind blowing shredding. On "Fire", dramatic stop/starts ups the progressive factor and the slower parts allow the listener to catch one's breath before more neo classical progressions course through the soundscape. "Water" is a pretty acoustic tune, demonstrating Mcgurk is just as comfortable in this element as he is when exhibiting his ultra-fast shredding as in the heavy "Earth" where his guitar blazes a melodic trail of both acoustic and electric leads. On the classically orchestrated "Movement II", Mcgurk again shows some wonderful skills on the acoustic guitar. Throughout the album Mcgurk marries fast and slower sections in a seamless and completely natural way.

Elements will surely appeal to fans of heavy instrumental guitar music. The best part is his melodic sensibility is not lost amidst all the technical wizardry, allowing these songs to settle into your brain. Highly recommended!

Track Listing:
1. Wind (The Calming Violence)
2. Fire (The Pain and Beauty)
3. Water (The Graceful Stranger)
4. Earth (The Aging Wisdom)
5. Elements (For Guitar and Orchestra)
6. Movement II – Requiem/Lacrymosa
7. Movement III – Grand Finale

Added: July 2nd 2015
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Facebook Page
Hits: 2246
Language: english

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