Album Reviiew: Neal Schon, "The Calling"

Every once in a while guitar virtuoso Neal Schon takes a major detour from his main day job as Journey's lead guitarist to indulge in a different side of his creativity.

His seventh solo offering The Calling sees him re-united with former Journey partner-in-rhyme Steve Smith who lends his drumming artistry to all 12 instrumentals. The title track is a beautifully crafted collage of well executed musical muscle, whilst the monstrous back-drop of Back Smash is reminiscent of a modern day Led Zeppelin, embossed with the tenacity and flair of a well seasoned guitar ace. Neal 'personally' and powerfully exemplifies his technical versatility in the emotional Blue Rainbow Sky (a tribute to the late great Ronnie James Dio) a charismatic cauldron of stylistic and heart-felt melodic guitar hooks. Nothing short of a six string symphony!


Jonathan Crampton
Rock Ikon
19th September, 2012

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