CD Review: Gilberto Finol – “Past”

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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: Gilberto Finol
Album: Past (2008 Self Released)
Tracks: 8

Artist website: https://gilbertofinolmusic.bandcamp.com

REVIEW OVERVIEW:

Gilberto Finol is a gifted artist from Venezuela who is based out of Spain. This album is melodic and beautiful. There seems to be a bit of a concept album vibe going through this effort. If I’m not mistaken, this is the first album of Finol.

The songwriting is solid as is the production and arranging. I have not heard something that shows this level of arranging skill in quite some time. While I am reminded of Porcupine Tree a lot when I am listening to this album, Finol definitely has his own distinctive writing style. Fans of Porcupine Tree will probably like this album a lot.

The only thing I did not like personally, was the highly effected lead vocals at times.

HIGHLIGHTS: 

The Path of the Souls, Tango Delirium, Second Life
All the textural background vocals and masterful arranging skills.

PLAY BY PLAY REVIEW

Track 1 – Into the Deep
Just oozing melody and beauty. Great opening track. The guitar solo is possibly one of the best by any artist. 

Track 2 – The Rain and I
A short instrumental atmospheric segue that helps to tell the story. 

Track 3 – The Path of the Souls
A solid rock song with theatrical elements. 

Track 4 – Drink This
A ballad-esque track. It reminds me of Porcupine Tree. 

Track 5 – Tango Delirium
A very enjoyable instrumental track. 

Track 6 – Second Life
This track is perfect in so many ways. It reminds me of Peter Gabriel at times and Porcupine Tree at others. I could see this being a great single. 

Track 7 – Take Me Home
This song has some very strong Porcupine Tree elements but manages to be original. 

Track 8 – To Begin Again
Majestic and orchestral are the only two ways I can describe this track.

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Posted in CD Reviews, The Weekly Riff (2008-2010) Reprinted.