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Geoff Tyson - Slow Mad Descent geofftyson.com – 2007 | |
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This CD is unlike any you would ever expect from the student Joe Satriani told me was "the most physically gifted of all his students." There is no shredding, the tracks are song oriented with a focus on vocals. That may not sound like something you would want to indulge in but I'm here to tell you otherwise. In "Supernova" Tyson plays a huge riff that is a beautiful contrast with his vocals which drift hazily in and out of the mix. The chorus works excellent with the riff and the multi layer of back vocals. I can't help but laugh at the lyrics and little synth riff in "Polyrhythms." I'm not laughing because either aspect is bad but rather the playfulness of both. Somehow Geoff takes words that normally would be offensive and or awkward together and makes them fun. It's his genius musical ability to be able to do this. The heavy guitar riff in this track also kicks some ass. If you go to Tyson's website to watch this video you'll be amazed at how much sexuality is captured. Bold video & even bolder song. The third track "Reminders" has a soft acoustic guitar rhythm that sways with a warm breeze feel. Geoff accentuates this with some tasty guitar embellishment. Never once does it feel like it's coming from anyone of the many players who sound the same. It's all uniquely Geoff Tyson. Between the soft rhythm and slide guitar in "You Again," Geoff creates a gentle tune where his vocals standout. Tyson nails the higher parts of the vocal work, which would be dangerous in lesser hands. I like how the keyboard leads into the guitar solo. Geoff's lead guitar work here is brilliant but always grounded within the structure of the tune. It's totally an extension of where the rest of the music is taking him. I absolutely love Tyson's version of Van Halen's "Mean Streets." It's mean and nasty in a subtle way. Geoff's singing stands out as much as the exceptional guitar playing. The back vocals add immeasurable to the track. I like how Tyson plays off the chorus. Eddie Van Halen would be very proud of this stellar re-imagining. The vocal flow of "Riverblue" catches you like a net and carries you to a brighter place. Geoff's vocals are sweet and are the highlight of this song. Even his background vocals couldn't be better. Speaking of being fun and playful, from the first second of "Goodbye" until the end, Tyson relishes the opportunity to sing Prince-like lead vocals mixed with clacking percussion and dreamy guitar. The feel of the "The Urge" is somewhat melancholy where Tyson takes command of the microphone. Geoff goes a little crazy in "Antidote" with lightning quick talking and having some fun before moving into an excellent instrumental track where his guitar does all the speaking. Beautiful background vocals contribute to the instrumental pattern. "Paved In Gold" shows Geoff's diverse voice where he shows off some impressive range and emotional expression. His solo in this song has a tinge of Jimmy Page but is totally Tyson. Piano is a nice addition to "Believe" and gives it a boost of emotionality. Tyson really exposes himself with his voice reaching deep into his soul. Very moving. I urge you to take a chance and go to Geoff's website to join in his festival of musicality all put together on this unique CD. His first solo album is unlike anything else you probably have in your collection. | ||
