HAIR IN A G-STRING (UNFINISHED BUT SWEET)

I have been listening to Colin Tench's past works and I have always enjoyed it very much, even rewarding it with five stars. That is a testament to a young man's brilliance and ecclecticism, because that is his forte. Tench seems able to play any genre in a convincing way and ever evolving. In a progressive sense that is true strengths. When I learned that he was involved in a new venture I was intrigued and happy to review it. Since I loved Corvus Stone II so much I was fearful that I would not like this as much. I was proven wrong.

Let me tell you, the opening track is such a gentle piece and holds a spoken "Welcome to the show". This section of the song, with a soaring sax-solo is one of the most beautiful passages I have ever heard. Breathtaking. The next track is a very melodious one which brings Beatles to mind. And then it hits you, "Hair in a G-string part 2". Santana and latin fusion. It's a vivid celebration to music and creativity. Part 3 of this suite is a folky nod to the 70's, I think, and is great. Apart from the folky nod there is a fantastic section of free-form characcter, a powerful workout and a intriguing soundscapes. I love this song.

"Something old, something new?" is a track in sections with outstanding playing and a guitar that is unbelievable. The opening nod to The Beatles (copying the intro to "Because" is simply delicious.) And the we head into the Wild West on "La Palo desperado" before "Part 4 b" starts summoning all the pieces together in a magnificent epic and soaring fashion. And then there's the bonus track, "Liza's waltz" with full orchestra. Pompous and overblown and as such stunning.

Of all things I have heard from Colin Tench this is by far his most progressive work. He throws all and any into the pot making "Hair in a G-string" a collection of outstanding beauty and power, blending his hardrock tendencies with folky intricacy, progressive outbursts and expeditions to any part of the world, fusing all above with latin jazz-rock worthy of any and all of the greats. It's whimsical in just the right sense and that makes the music even more endearing.

It need to be said that though Tench is the mastermind he surrounds him with, just as he always do, outstanding brilliance in his entourage of fellow musicians. If I was the emperor of the world, which I'm clearly not, I would prompt for all to listen to this album. It is a crowning achievement of 2016 and I urge you to listen. Brilliance on a plate.