I will say this now...Andy Timmons is one of the best guitarists on the
planet and it's about f***ing time he
has gotten a proper release for his music. Thanks again to Steve Vai's
Favored Nations Label, Timmons'
new CD, a compilation of both Ear-Xtacy 1 & 2, plus an additional 5 new
tracks, is without a doubt a nice
way to introduce this brilliant player to the masses. I have been a HUGE fan
of Andy's since his days in
Danger Danger (Yes folks, everyone has to pay bills, so cut him some slack),
and have followed his work
through his various solo projects, and sideman gigs with Simon Phillips, Kip
Winger, and other assorted
artists of that ilk. What makes Timmons such a standout guitarist is not
only his ability to out-widdle every
player on the block, but his feel and authenticity to the styles he applies
himself to. This guy simply plays
so well that you will often find yourself thinking, 'when did he get the
time to learn to play like this!'. The
scope of this disc is wide, and every track says something different, yet
ties together very nicely. The new
tracks are smoldering, and the older tracks are remixed and punchy as a Mike
Tyson right hook. Timmons'
tone is staggering, thick and meaty and clear as a bell. You simply won't
find a better player on the market
today. His songwriting skills are top notch, and the that is a tough feat to
accomplish in the instrumental
guitar genre. Form the opening "Super 70's" with it's slamming blues rock
power, to the amazing "Electric
Gypsy" (dedicated to Jimi Hendrix) and down through the ripping country
stylings of 'Farmer Sayz" and
the haunting "Night To Remember", Timmons' never grandstands or shoves his
talent down your throat,
instead, he lets you in on his emotions and lets you draw your own
conclusions. Timmons' has been
a cult-legend in the guitar world for a number of years, and though I am
sure this disc will not put him on
the Billboard Top Twenty, this man deserves and NEEDS to be heard. He is
unmatched and still amazing
guitarists around the globe to this day. This is the HIGHEST recommended
guitar disc of the year. It comes
out May 7th everywhere. Get it, sit back and enjoy the ride. You will not be
disapointed.
