Elewout de Raad Project: True Stories

Firmly rooted in the Holdsworth school of guitar, Elewout de Raad wastes no time stepping out on the opening “Fifths�. de Raad indicates that his songwriting combines both composed and improvisation, challenging himself and his fellow musicians to grow together. He draws inspiration not only from Holdsworth, but fellow guitar greats Scott Henderson, Frank Gambale and Steve Vai. “Fifths� also features some wonderful keyboard soloing from Valeriy Stepanov who definitely impresses. The track is upbeat and lively, and offers plenty of changes and dynamics to keep you on your toes over the 7+ minutes. “Be Who U.R� is a bit darker, with more great soloing, and the use of vibes tone brings out a Zappa around the 2:50 mark. I also like how de Raad is not all flash and fire, he can adds some nice bends and slides in his phrasing which are a nice touch, every now and then you’ll get a bluesy feel between his legato runs. Rounding out his band are Frans Vollink (bass), Niels Voskuil (drums) and Felix Degenaar (Piano/Keys). According to de Raad, having never played together, the song “Awestruck� was recorded in one take...that is impressive. The song does have a loose feel, and de Raad again impresses with his wonderful playing. Stepanov’s superb soloing is again featured again on the laid back “Serenity Now!� and yes Seinfeld fans, it appears it was named after that famous episode. And don’t worry, de Raad gets plenty of time to shine here too.

Fans of the Holdsworth style will certainly be pleased, de Raad is a very talented guitarist, but I also find on repeat listens that I am enjoying the tunes as they worm their way into my brain. The title track features more vibes, and Minneman provides his touch, driving the song one minute, and laying down a nice groove the next. This track may feature de Raad’s most unique soloing on the album, a true combination of styles and phrasing. I love the unison playing and intensity, this is what it is all about. I doubt I need to say much about the closer “Allan�, a tribute to his main inspiration. Sit back and enjoy the ride, you are in for some very impressive guitar work.

Track List:
1. Fifths (feat. Valeriy Stepanov)
2. Be Who U.R
3. Awestruck
4. Serenity Now! (feat. Valeriy Stepanov)
5. True Stories (feat. Marco Minnemann)
6. Allan

Added: March 12th 2024
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artists @ Bandcamp
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Language: english

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