SAND

This was the FIRST CD I ever bought. Really. At the time I owned Metal Fatigue, IOU, Road Games and Atavachron (Which I used to torture my ex-wife, she hated Holdsworth's music). That said, I appreciate Allan in many ways besides the obvious.

Sand is a journey of the mind. Of course, I feel this way about most of Allan's catelogue. I approached this album without "guitar god" in my mind. I went with composer, musician, martian as my base to listen from. I was and still am astounded by this album. "Why only three stars, Danbo?" some would ask. Well, for me, Allan's music is personal and I understand that not everyone can grasp the tones, notes and images Allan creates. For me it's great, essential. For others, I only hope they try it and, even more, I hope they "get it." Allan's music is not for the masses, at least in today's narrow minded music view. It's music that is an acquired taste and demands unusual concentration.

There are many highlights among this collection. Distance vs. Desire is wonderful and aptly fits it's title. Purely Synthaxe, with washes, sweeping chordal lines and flute-like soloing. It's among my favorite and most heart-felt Holdsworth tunes.

Clown is among the favorites of Allan's fans, as is Pud Wud. Strong statements of a new instrument struggling for a voice and acceptance of music fans. Allan wanted to be recognized for his compositions, not guitar greatness. The notes spark, flash and fire like a summer lightning storm, then swell, ebb and flow like an ocean tide. Each note is like a drop of rain on hot flesh, soothing and refreshing.

Try out All Night Wrong (bare and unadorned) or Metal Fatigue (guitar essential) then slip into the warm Sand. You may find some mental medication.