Guitar driven instrumental music you say, well sign me up. Composer, producer, guitarist and leader of Mavon Safia, Markus Venehsalo is at the top of his game. After a few listens, I can say that Introlation musically crosses genres and will satisfy those hungry for more guitar. The title track has darkness, and features Finnish guitarist Mikko Kosonen who is impressive. Kosonen displays sensitive phrasing whether he is flying across the fretboard, or milking each note for all it’s worth. “Autocorrect” has a catchy melody and a driving beat, and we get to hear Venehsalo on lead for the first time, and he’s fantastic. The unison runs with keyboardist Vili Itapelto are impressive. We learn two important things after these tracks, these guys are excellent musicians, and have the songs to back it up. “Made in Finland” has funkiness, and gets stronger as the song progresses. Venehsalo again shows his versatility countering speed with feel; he’s right on the mark with his playing. “Projekt 13” features guitar virtuoso Frank Gambale in the guest chair, and he does not disappoint. I can’t fathom the speed and precision he plays with, but I can guarantee it will put a smile on your face. The intro to “Future” is spellbinding, the sound, texture and technique are jaw dropping, and offers up a little something different for the ear, I love the use of whammy bar here. Unfortunately, the vocals in “Doorstep of the Rising Sun” are not great, and the song is a bit over the top, but thankfully it’s the only misstep. “Radioactive Diesel” is the heaviest track, and also quite bombastic during its brief 2:49 run time.
The closing “Jazz Ballad” gives you another side of Venehsalo’s playing, an atmospheric guitar with the band tastefully supporting him, you can picture them playing this in a smoky club. The band is rounded out by Oliver Karttunen on bass and Jaakko Poyhonen on drums. In the liner notes it states that it’s been Venehsalo’s longtime dream to create a guitar driven album, and it’s nice to hear that dream now become a reality. Check this one out guitar lovers.
Track List:
1. Introlation feat. Mikko Kosonen
2. Autocorrect
3. Made In Finland
4. Projekt 13 feat. Frank Gambale
5. Future
6. Doorstep Of The Rising Sun
7. Radioactive Diesel
8. Jazz Ballad
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