Angel Skigh: Toxic Sex

Angel Skigh is the music of Keith Ostendorf, a one man project consisting mainly of guitar based instrumental music with a slight nod to avant-garde and alternative rock. Ostendorf contributes guitar, bass sim, programming and vocals (on one track). I could not dig up much information on the artist, as well as no cover art, so I will get right to the music.

While not a bad cd by any means there are a couple of shortcomings that I have to mention. First of all, this music would benefit greatly from real drums especially on some of the more aggressive songs. The programmed drums do not pack enough punch to my ears and sound a little hollow. Secondly, the production quality needs to be improved. Of course, the backing of a label may help in this regard. Also, there are moments when this does feel like a one person project. I think adding a couple of musicians for his next go around would surely help the overall sound.

That's enough of the negatives as there are some positives to be gleamed out of this music. First of all there is no doubting Ostendorfs' talent on the guitar. His chaotic and somewhat discordant approach to the instrument will make fans of experimental music happy. As far as individual songs are concerned, I like the heavy rock meets jazz approach of "Guitar Heroes" aptly titled when listening to the guitar work on display. "Empty Life", billed as a tribute to the hair bands, is a good slice of melodic rock and is the only song to include vocals. While Ostendorf has a decent voice suited to a hard rock sound it is too far down in the mix to be very effective. Again, better production would have definitely been an asset. "Another Missing Youth" has a good guitar melody and a pretty cool experimental section where programming is used to good effect.

While not bad for a first effort, there are improvements to be made. The potential is there, lets just hope the bar is raised a little higher for the next album. As it is, this one earns 2.5 stars.

Note: After writing this review I spoke with the artist where he shared with me his love of music and his desire to take it further.

Track Listing:
1. Slavers on the Prowl (4:13)
2. Abduction (2:35)
3. Another Missing Youth (2:08)
4. Nations Of Slaves (4:39)
5. Conqueror Worm (2:43)
6. Guitar Heroes (4:58)
7. Empty Life (2:42)

Added: March 15th 2009
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Hits: 1969
Language: english

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