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| Jordan Rudess - Rhythm Of Time |
 Released: 2004 Label: Magna Carta Cat. No.: 9068 Total Time: 60:23 (plus multimedia track) | |
Reviewed by: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck, October 2004 Jordan Rudess has a stunning new album for all progressive rock enthusiasts to enjoy, Rhythm Of Time. It is much different from his previous release Feeding The Wheel. Although Rudess continues to reach back to his classical roots on a regular basis to propel his musical formulas, he rocks hard and manages to infuse influences such as jazz into his vast repertoire. This recording has a faster pace and a much higher energy level than his previous solo work. Unquestionably, this is the finest Rudess solo recording to date. Rudess has a friend that he depends on to make such intriguing music-his equipment and the technology that drives it. He is very adept with the various keyboard configurations and computers. "Insects Among Us" offers passages of jazz then jumps right back into the fray of the whirling dervish keyboard processions that Rudess is so well versed in employing. He is an expert at combining rock and classical and "What Four" is a good example of those factors at work. All of the great prog-rock bands over the years have proved their abilities in that arena; it is what separates the greats from the fly-by-night artists. The guest artists on this recording are all high profile. Rod Morgenstein is on drums while Steve Morse and Joe Satriani man the guitars. This kind of situation goes along with the old adage, the best play with the best. Rudess also offers a few surprises on this CD; he actually sings lead vocals on two songs, "Tear Before The Rain" and "Beyond Tomorrow," which are offered as bonus MP3 versions. Kip Winger handles the vocal chores on the main tracks on the album. Rudess is not the greatest singer in the world, which is why his primary focus is the keyboards, he is however surprisingly good for someone that normally does not sing. His is voice is a little rough around the edges but more than adequate. Sometimes that raspy touch is just right, depending on what type of song you are singing. The bonus video interview in his studio is fantastic quality and gives some insight into the process of recording Rudess experienced with the album. This is an album worth several listens before making a decision whether or not it is one of your favorites this year. Follow these directions and it will not fail, this CD will be in common rotation in your stereo, you have my personal guarantee. Rating: 4.5/5 [See also Clayton's review -ed.] More about Rhythm Of Time: Track Listing: Time Crunch (6:28) / Screaming Head (7:19) / Insects Among Us (9:33) / Beyond Tomorrow (9:56) / Bar Hopping With Mr. Picky (4:37) / What Four (6:50) / Ra (7:54) / Tear Before the Rain (9:06) / Behind the Rhythm of Time [CD-ROM Track] Musicians: Contact: Website: www.jordanrudess.com Discography Solo:
Bands:
Guest appearances/compilations:
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