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"Joe's Place" Joe Elliott, department head at the Guitar
Institute of Technology in Hollywood, and a killer fusion guitarist in his
own right, has released Joe's Place, a seven track instrumental offering
of melodic rock fusion that satisfies on several levels. Songs such as "Lukeville"
and "Get It Right" spotlight inspired, fiery playing from Elliott while
advancing some memorable melodies. Supported by a standout cast including
drummer Marc Rio and bassist Egie Sierra (among others), Elliott plays off
these fine talents, letting his overdriven guitar explore the sultry and
soulful side of fusion, as well as the upbeat, passionate side of rock/jazz
improvisation. A great chance to catch Elliott in his own element. Instrumental
Guitar (Electric/Rock/Jazz), total running time, 38:54 |
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"Joe's Place" Joe and his masterful ensemble serve up a smorgasbord
of tasty instrumentals that take us on an unparalleled journey from jazz
to blues to R&B to salsa! "The perfect blend of technique and taste"...and
he's much cuter than the Joe Elliott from Def Leppard! ;) |
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| Joe Elliott - "Joe's Place"
Longtime Hollywood institution The Baked Potato is a great place to discover new talent, and it was here that I first experienced the music of guitar phenom Joe Elliott. It only took one set before I rushed over to buy his self-produced instrumental debut CD "Joe's Place". Great players make everything look effortless, but when you get a close-up look at the dazzling display of blazing fingers and dexterity required to perform these dynamic compositions with the consummate accuracy and precision these artists achieve, it's truly, truly impressive. Live, Joe is an endearing and engaging stage presence...with humorous between-song banter, modest but confident, and generous with his fellow performers, conducting his ensemble as if the songs were comprised of conversations between instruments, while clearly remaining the centerpiece. Listening to the CD on it's own, one gains another level of respect for Joe Elliott as an artist. This CD is masterfully produced. The songs smooth and flawless, melodic and passionate, dynamic, moody and smokin'. It's hard to believe this is a freshman effort without the benefit of a fat label budget or a big name producer...Joe has a natural ear for arrangement and song structure that takes many instrumentalists a lifetime to develop (if ever!). The tones and hues of Joe's guitar, and the various other instruments compliment each other beautifully. My most enduring thought as I listen to "Joe's Place" over and over and over is, 'Now, this is the way it's supposed to be done'. A product of great depth, substance and magnificent musicianship. At the last show I attended, Joe played some
stunning new songs not included on "Joe's Place"...here's to hoping they
will appear on Joe's upcoming second release very soon! |
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