STEPPIN' OUT

Having already established himself under the tutelage of Jean-Luc Ponty in the 70's and following exstensive touring with Genesis, Daryl Stuermer released this debut album in 1988. The hints of JLP and his guitar style from Genesis tours are curiously apparent in that there are subtle nuances all over the album but at the same time not so easy to shake a stick at ( if you get my drift). The Jazz/Fusion side is the most dominant characteristic on Steppin' Out which makes for an excellent release.

The album kicks off with 'Kyoto Rose', unusual timings but after repeated listens becomes quite addictive to the ears. His version of the Phil Collin's song ' I Don't Wanna Know' is next and he does a great job as an instrumental version. The next three songs are probablty the most progressive sounding on Steppin' Out, wonderfully structured, uneven tempos and dare I say it unpredictable yet all great tracks marking the highlight to this album. ' Anthem', ' Venturing Out' and the brilliance of ' Electric City'. You need to listen to this to fully appreciated his guitar skills.

' The Highlander' closes Steppin Out with distinctive Scottish flavours and brings the album to a frenzied fusion like climax. If you are familiar with Daryl Stuermer due to Jean-Luc Ponty or even Genesis but have not heard his solo work then start with this album, in many respects his best. Not necessarily from a technical viewpoint but more from an atmospherical angle. A worthy four stars!