Guitarist Steve Morse (Kansas/Dixie Dreggs/Deep Purple) has won more awards than many guitarists have had hot dinners! Even to a non-player like myself you can see his awesome talent and natural ability. The idea of this album is for Steve Morse to pay tribute to his influences but via original compositions based on the style of that particular influence. For instance you get ’Zig Zags’ which is blues boogie tipping the hat to ZZ Top or ‘Cool Wind, Green Hills’ which delves into Celtic ballad territory.

Morse plays keys and produces the album as well, with Dave LaRue (bass) and Van Romaine (drums/percussion) helping out. Personal highlights include ‘Where Were You?’ a Who homage that has hints of ‘Baba O’Reilly’ keys and guitar breaks form ‘Pinball Wizard’ amongst others. Aerosmith looms large on ‘Errol Smith’ and Morse nails down Joe Perry’s guitar style to a tee. Finally, check out ‘Leonard’s Best’ (the title should give you a clue to the band!). yes, it’s Morse playing some Lynyrd Skynyrd, only re-creating the three guitar sound with one! Fine way to round off the album.

Not one for everyone but for guitarists they can listen in wonderment at his playing and non-musos can kick back and enjoy the varied styles on offer.

Label website

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Review by Jason Ritchie

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly