THE LIFE OF A STAR

Zozimo Rech of Astronomusic has quite an affinity for astronomy; and, therefore, spacey music. I have no complaints about this, as I simply adore this kind of music. Zozimo's newer album "Pictures of a Solar System" is an amazing synth and keyboard driven album of surreal, otherworldly music. His collaboration with his wife Adrianne Simioni on the album under her name, "The Intelligible Sky", featured a more eclectic atmosphere which included haunting violin work.

"The Life of a Star", however, is Zozimo at his best, I believe. This is his masterpiece. This album features Zozimo playing his heart out on the guitar. On the other albums, he played some impressive solos and such, but "The Life of Star" showcases Zozimo's incredible guitar talent. Whether it be the fantastic riffing on tracks like "Shock Wave" or the driving guitar lines on "Ignition", Zozimo impresses at every turn. He again reminds me of Colin Masson and his intensely awesome guitar work that has a hint of folk to it. Yes, Zozimo mirrors him in some ways, but I think he shows that he can perform some incredibly technical portions without much effort at all, such as on "Queen Star".

This album still features the excellent keyboard work that really makes the spacey atmosphere come alive. I do find that this album doesn't stick to its theme as closely as the others, but I think it is to its advantage. Sometimes, Zozimo just shows us his talent, but the ethereal themes are still very much in place here. Indeed, the haunting nature of the music is bolstered well by the great melodies that are present.

What more can I ask of an Astronomusic release? Zozimo shows his stuff here with excellent melodies, astounding guitar work, and an ethereal journey that anyone should be glad to experience. From the darkness of "The Collapsing Star" to the rocking feel of "Dancing with the Invisible", "The Life of Star" delivers everything I wanted. This is definitely Zozimo's best.