Record Reviews

JEFF BECK ~ LOUD HAILER ATCO 081227944452 (Barcode: 081227944452) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016 It is truly amazing to see the vitality and chameleonic ability to adapt displayed by some of the veteran Rockers, who are now in their seventh or even eighth decade. British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist is definitely one the most impressive examples of the Artists, for whom the passing of time is simply completely meaningless. This latest, as of the time of writing, album by Beck and his new crew, which is decades younger than himself, is a wonderful example not of "surviving" in the music idiom, but of keeping a place in the lead. Beck combines forces with two young female musicians, vocalist Rosie BonesFind albums by this artist and guitarist Carmen VandenbergFind albums by this artist, who lead together their own group called Bones. They are supported by bassist Giovanni PallottiFind albums by this artist and drummer Davide SollazziFind albums by this artist. Beck, Bones and Vandenberg wrote together nine of the eleven pieces on the album, Beck wrote one additional piece and co-wrote the remaining one with producer Filippo CimattiFind albums by this artist, who is also the producer of Bones. The music is almost a complete about face to Beck´s extensive flirt with Jazz-Rock Fusion he pursued for several years and comes back to contemporary Rock, at its best. It uses a plethora of Rock sub-genres, including Heavy and Industrial, but sounds incredibly fresh and inventive, unlike most of contemporary Rock music. The vocals are impressive and quite diverse, emphasizing different approach in every song. The lyrics are surprisingly meaningful and often pretty bold, touching on political and social issues, which again is pretty rare in today´s Rock music. The rhythm section does a wonderful work supporting the other musicians amicably and intelligently. But it is Beck´s guitar playing which is the focus of this album, even if it wasn´t completely intended. He is simply extraordinary on each and every of the tunes on this album, playing a stunning variety of sounds and styles, with each of his whining guitar solos being absolute gems. In many respects Beck reinvents Rock guitar playing here, creating an amalgam of Blues, Classic Rock and Fusion guitar techniques and sound, completely unique and absolutely spectacular. The album is overall wonderfully played, produced and recorded, and kudos is due to everybody involved. The album failed, sadly, to make a major impact on the music scene, which is sort of expected, as quality these days is reverse proportional to appreciation and success. Well, we the faithful, salute you Maestro!

Updated: 14/10/2016Posted: 14/10/2016

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