| Neal Schon i on u | Favored Nations FN 2430-2 |
|
|
Journey/Bad English/Soul SirkUS guitarist Neal Schon returns for his latest solo outing I On U. Neal's ability to play any style has seen him vary his approach over each solo album, but I On You sees the man stripping it back and keeping it simple – which in turn serves him well, as the guitar really speaks to the listener here and the solos are precisely what fans will be hoping to hear. The album was co-written and produced with Igor Len. The two work together well as they have an established relatioship through their collaboration on Neal's album Electric World. Having this common theme through the record keeps the music and delivery consistent. Not since Neal's sensational debut solo album Late Nite have I heard a group of instrumental songs that really speak to the listener and hold the interest such as this selection of tracks. The songs center around a mid-tempo vibe, with a couple of up and a couple of slower numbers to add balance. The addition of live drums on all but 2 tracks helps create a fuller sound and the additional loops and programming added by Igor create the variations between songs. The rest is all Neal – and I On U sees him in fine 'tone'. Standouts include the uptempo Blue Passion, with a progressive beat and a great set of solos; the 7 minute long Timeless Motion, which reminds me of his early days in Santana; the haunting Moon Dust and the snappy Burning Bridges.
|
05/12/05: T.K. - spcforker@yahoo.com
21/06/05: STEVE15 - sunsetnfoothills@yahoo.com
23/03/05: trekman - no1trekman2002@yahoo.com
19/03/05: Freddy De Keyzer - freddydekeyzer@hotmail.com
19/03/05: Lisa B - lisarhk@wowway.com
19/03/05: Karla Bostic - Karla@NealSchon.Net
19/03/05: Layton - Flajrnylvr@hotmail.com
Rating: 95
I've Been watching Neil since the "Winterland" days. I remember when contorted facial expressions were part of his onstage show.
"I on U" is another example of Neil's commitment to excellence.
Rating: 75
I'M A BIG FAN OF ALL NEALS WORK. BUT A WHOLE CD OF HIM SOLOING OVER A KEYBOARD & DRUM MACHINE GETS A LIITLE OLD!
THIS & THE SOUL SIRKUS CD LEAVES ME HOPING THE JOURNEY GENERATIONS CD WILL MAKE UP FOR THESE DISSAPOINTMENTS!
Rating: 100
Well, Ive been a Neal Schon since he formed Journey with Gregg Rolie back in the early 70's. Ive always been one that loved Guitar Rock. And I love instrumental rock. So if theres any doubt. I Love this CD! I have Voice and Piranah Blues, but this is my favorite. His playing just makes me feel good. I put it in my car CD player, crank it up and without even knowing Ive arrived at my destination. Thats how much I can get into it. Of course im a safe driver! LOL. But if you enjoy Neal Schon, you better not miss this one!!
Rating: 10
Oh boy ! Neil is a great guitarist, but how someone can listen to this boring crap is totally beyond me !
To be honest, I've never been a fan of instrumental music at all, so that explains it a bit !
No, waste of time and money IMO !
The SoulsirkUS CD was bad, but this still from another category ç
Hope the new Journey will be better, if not, Neil may return ASAP !
Rating: 100
Simply put, this is a Masterpiece. No one should be without it in their collection.
Rating: 10
How could anyone expect anything less than perfection from Mr Schon. He always gives us more and more. He is The MASTER and I am proud to be his humble servant. Great cd that touches your soul.
Rating: 90
I love this album. I own all his Solo albums and besides voice which is my favorite, this is a close second.