Greg X | Dream
by Nikiforos Skoumas
Staff Writer
Dream is the brand new debut album by UK-based hot-shot guitarist Greg X. Within the music industry, Greg is quick to position himself as is an independent artist, though producing an album of major-label proportions. It has to be clear that Dream is not an instrumental shred guitar record. We are looking at an AOR-melodic-rock album of admirable musical depth.
It seems that for Greg being recognized as an admirable songwriter is just as important as establishing his technique on the fret board. For that matter Greg proves himself a mature artist, prioritizing songwriting over technical exhibition. Clearly there are numerous spots on the album where Greg indulges in melodic shred soloing though up-lifting choruses and melodic lines top the guitarist’s priorities as a musician. His allies on this attempt are drummer Jay Schellen of Hurricane and Unruly Child along with powerhouse vocalist Ken Tamplin. In addition Dream is produced by former Asia front man John Payne.
While Greg never professed Dream being a Christian melodic rock album, Ken Tamplin’s unmistakable vocals grant the album its ‘white’ essence. Tamplin’s contribution was critical to the artistic success of the album being just as much a protagonist as Greg, shining on each chorus and on all melodic lines. Ken truly holds nothing back on the seven songs featuring his lead vocals subsequently causing dream to sound more like band effort than a studio project.
The Dream is amongst the most up-lifting melodic albums of 2011 inducing positive energy to the listener with each track. Having established the high musical quality of the album, one has to address that certain songs stand out. “Wake Me,” “How to Love,” “Stand Up” and “Victory” are prime example of melodic rock gold, with melodies sounding so warm and white, guaranteed to lift the mood of listener. Having played the album a good number of times, it becomes all the more obvious that eight tracks are just not enough, since with each track the listener indulges deeper in the structures of the Dream. One gets the impression that this debut is perhaps a mere sample of the abilities of this musical combo and what is yet to come out of the Greg- Ken synergy.
Dream is probably the greatest independent AOR/melodic rock album of 2011 easily comparable to major releases by labels such as Frontier and AOR Heaven. One hopes to hear more music come out of this collaboration, while already looking forward to a follow up.
Genre: AOR / Christian Melodic Rock
Band:
Greg X (g)
Ken Tamplin (v)
Jay Schellen (d)
Track List:
1. As the World Spins ‘Round
2. Dream the Dream
3. How to Love
4. Wake Me (Before You Go)
5. Stand Up
6. Love and Hate
7. Waiting On You
8. Victory
Website: http://gregxmusic.com/
Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10