Martin Matalon – Traces (2009) Repost

Recorded in 1976 - after Brian Eno had proclaimed them one of the best groups around - but for whatever reason not released until 20 years later, Tracks & Traces is a fascinating release not merely for Eno's participation but for the hints of music that would become mainstream in the future. Indeed, opening cut "Vamos Companeros" has an intense guitar line from Rother that in its nervous, choppy way suggests everything from Wire to Bauhaus, not to mention Eno's own noted production clients, U2. Having already created two excellent albums, the core Harmonia trio was easily placed to whip up a third, with Eno the wild-card factor who turned out to be a perfect addition. While contributing some lyrics and singing at a time when he was steering away firmly from both in his own solo work, most of the time Eno lets the band speak for itself musically, most notably adding snaky, quietly threatening basslines…

While most of the guitarists that belonged to the '80s "shred" movement seemed to put instrumental virtuosity first (over writing memorable and hummable songs), there were a few exceptions – notably Paul Gilbert. Of course, Gilbert can light up a fretboard with his chop-heavy technique when he so desires, but as evidenced with his work as part of Mr. Big, he can also pen an acoustic ditty or power ballad that will make housewives worldwide sing along. On his 2009 release, United States, Gilbert teams up with singer Freddie Nelson, for a set of rockin' tunes that leans heavy on the melodic side of things.