RHYTHM OF TIME

Jordan Rudess the DREAM THEATER keyboardist has put out several solo albums, which was news to me when I saw them all listed here.This apparently is one of his more popular ones released in 2004.That's Jordan on the album's cover doing his Stevie Wonder impersonation. Lots of talented people on this album. As usual Jordan has his friend Rod Morgenstein (DIXIE DREGS) on drums along with a young new guitarist in Daniel J.That's the core lineup, and then we get a multitude of guests helping out on various tracks with solos etc. Included is Joe Satriani, Steve Morse, Dave LaRue, Vinnie Moore and more. Oh yeah Kip Winger sings the two vocal tracks. Both are the lowlights of the album.

"Time Crunch" turns heavy very quickly with the keyboards playing over top. An energetic opener. "Screaming Head" picks up quickly then settles back with atmosphere 1 1/2 minutes in. It's heavy after 3 1/2 minutes. Lots of synths on this one. "Insectsamongus" is keyboard led. It turns mellow before 2 minutes then heavy again. A jazzy flavour arrives before 5 1/2 minutes then it becomes intense again.

"Beyond Tomorrow" opens with piano as drums and bass join in then vocals. Some ripping guitar from Greg Howe before 7 minutes.Vocals are back late. "Barhopping With Mr. Picky" opens with bass and drums followed by a full sound. Some experimentation on this one. Steve Morse leads before 3 minutes on guitar then the synths take over. "What Four" features lots of piano and synths.The guitar (Greg Howe) is cranking it out before 2 1/2 minutes then Steve Morse solos after 5 minutes. "RA" rocks out pretty good.Guitar (Vinnie Moore) to the fore 3 minutes in. "Tear Before The Rain" is the ballad-like closing song with Kip singing. Not a fan.

Lots to like here but this is definitely no more than a 3 star album in my books. I much prefer Derek Sherinian's solo works, but Kevin Moore tops them all when it comes to solo stuff by DREAM THEATER keyboardists.