Continuing his series of Experiments and Explorations EPs, multi-instrumentalist Chuck Moyer, aka, “G Clef Fusion,” presents A Progression of One Note Solos – a fusion-y delving into very careful compositions gifted careless explorative freedom.
According to Moyer, the emphasis of this particular EP “is on a foundational chord progression for the song with the solo element – a primarily monophonic solo timbre – through the course of the song to provide an element of melody and or flamboyance.” And these solo elements are indeed open to improvisation. Is A Progression of One Note Solos another tasty, fusion-y treat? Let’s explore the highlights of G Clef Fusion’s latest offering.
The collection begins with “Phantom of the Apodictic,” which is, according to Moyer, “an ode to the ultimate truth (which may no longer exist, if it ever did) much along the lines of the Phantom of the Opera, but this one more idealism than architecture.” And I also hear…Kansas? Yes, Kansas; specifically, something akin to the Song for America and Masque albums. With that rich, glassy organ and a melodic solo string/violin on top? Oh, yeah – I’m really feeling that more progressive, early-stage Kansas. Excellent!
“Chords that Gyve” is a jazzier number with a more twinkling organ leading the affair. There are interesting time changes here, some great solo runs, and very nice breaks from the intense to well-paced solemnity.
“I for One Have Two” starts with big ‘80s-synth chords – I’m reminded of Emerson, Lake, and Powell – one album where ELP continued without Carl Palmer, brought in Cozy Powell, and utilized more “modern-sounding” synths. A lot of great, melodic synth runs here, and a very “ELP moment” that closes the song – when bass, organ, and drums follow each clever note in unfailing unison. Good stuff.
The album closer, “Conchordance,” is another jazzy/art rock number with a great analog-inspired synth lead over rich, vintage-sounding organ. Again, some great tempo changes and exemplary, agile playing throughout.
But is it good?
Oh, heck yeah. Anyone who can pull off something that sounds like, perhaps accidentally, ELP, is absolutely on another level. If you’re looking for intelligent music with quite a few layers to peel back and enjoy, you will LOVE A Progression of One Note Solos from G Clef Fusion. Recommended.
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BELOW: Listen to A Progression of One Note Solos and check out G Clef Fusion on Bandcamp and ReverbNation. Please support G Clef Fusion by visiting his website and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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