Jeez, those guys at Lion Music! Do they ever screw up with unleashing a
guitar talent on the world?! Enter Marco Sfogli. This guy is just awesome! Best
known as James LaBrie's (Dream Theater singer) solo band touring guitarist,
Marco Sfogli is simply a monster in waiting. A superior melodic shredder, Sfogli
is all set to become the new hot guitarist on the scene. His new instrumental
CD, There's Hope is in a word…Brilliant!
There's Hope is an 11 track CD filled with Progressive Hard
Rock/Metal/Fusion bliss, all while being completely melodic and musical. Marco
Sfogli unleashes a fire that is unrivaled and his melodic touch is just spot on.
Precise and emotional, Sfogli just simply nails it on There's Hope. Marco
has made the conscience effort to keep the balance between fiery shredder and
melodic songster, all the while infusing the guitar pyrotechnics that anyone
could ever hope for. There's Hope never finds itself becoming boring or
invasive and is simply one of those records that is just invigorating to listen
to. Across the board, Marco consistently blends the different genres on this
record with effortless precision. The guy has a voice on guitar that is just
begging to be heard and I for one have gotten on board.
Highlights on There's Hope are Fusion flowing "Andromeda", "Genius"
with it's heavy, brooding groove, the Satriani flavored "Farewell", the heavy
riffing of the title track, "There's Hope" and the unexpected country twang of
the Hellecaster's-ish "Texas BBQ". Is there anything that this guy can't do? And
do well? Not on this CD anyway! I for one had never heard of Marco Sfogli, but
he is now WAY UP on my radar and far from falling off anytime soon. The
unfortunate thing is that here in the USA, I doubt that he will earn the guitar
status that he so obviously deserves. I hope that he does get the chance because
not such a worthy player have I heard in a LONG time. There's Hope will
easily find a home with guitar fans. It's a brilliant 1st full instrumental
release and with such strong melodic roots and blending of genres, there is
something here for everyone and it is all executed with a virtuoso touch.
Welcome a new guitar hero onto the scene, his name is Marco Sfogli. Take notice now,
you've been warned!
Track Listing:
1. Still Hurts
2. Andromeda
3. Seven
4. There's Hope
5. Spread The Disease
6. Farewell
7. Sunset Lights
8. Genius
9. Never Forgive Me
10.Memories
11.Texas BBQ