CD Review
This review was originally written by Jose Bernardo for www.theweeklyriff.com between 2008 and 2010.
These were Jose’s first impressions of the songs and were not written after multiple spins.
Artist: Allen Hinds
Album: Falling Up (2009 Hindsybabe Music)
Tracks: 9
Artist website: http://www.allenhinds.com
OVERVIEW
Allen Hinds is a very well known man in the world of guitar. He has been an LA area studio ace for decades and teaches at the world renowned GIT department of Musicians Institute. This album was such an incredible joy to listen to. Every aspect of this record is top notch! What we mean by that is that while the main focus might be the guitars, the other stuff has not been sacrificed for it.
The writing, arrangements, and the musicianship is superb! (It shouldn’t be a surprise if one reads the credits.) Guitar fans all over the world should have this CD in their collection. I would say that this is required listening if one wants to learn what it means to be a smooth guitar player.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A New Way Home, Breakaway, Rat Scat
PLAY BY PLAY
Track 1 – Falling Up
What an absolutely wonderful piece! The reverse delay stuff was not gimmicky at all. Loved it.
Track 2 – Breakaway
Very cool. Loving the tone on this track.
Track 3 – Then Again
What a cool groove! Very nice.
Track 4 – A New Way Home
One doesn’t often hear uptempo acoustic guitar tracks since modern pop culture has relegated the instrument to being used in ballads. This is one of the best I’ve heard. The acoustic guitar tones are really pretty here. We really want to know how the sitaresque sound was achieved!
Track 5 – Peace
This is a very pretty track that floats very nicely in a dreamy way.
Track 6 – Come Together
Awesome cover of a classic Beatles song.
Track 7 – Rat Scat
This is a very cool track. Reminds me a lot of Vital Information. Kudos to Jeff Babko!
Track 8 – Gris Gris Shimmy
Very cool groove! This sounds like it was recorded at a jam session.
Track 9 – Katie’s Dreams
Very pretty!