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Artist: Geff |
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GEFF is the brainchild of
guitarist/songwriter Ralf Jedestedt.
He has managed to persuade highly regarded musicians Goran Edman
(Vocals), Anders Johansson (Drums), Mats Olausson (Keyboards) and Per
Stadin (Bass), to participate on 'Land Of The Free'.
Apparently pre-production has already started on the next album
so live dates may not be on the horizon. I wasn’t sure what to
expect from this ten track CD but with a vocalist and drummer the
calibre of Goran Edman and Anders Johansson, plus a guest appearance
from Jens Johansson on keyboards for one song, it all bodes well. 'Xtacy' kicks off with some sub-Malmsteen riffage from Ralf J. while Goran Edman just seems to cruise along. The keyboard/guitar duel solo wasn’t too bad but the chorus just left me feeling flat. Next up is 'Fruits Of Life', a mid-tempo rocker with another forgettable chorus. 'Living Generation' unfortunately dies in my head as soon as it leaves the starting block. The title track 'Land Of The Free' starts off with some atmospheric storm and keyboard sounds before Ralf J. lets rip on the fret board. Another duel between Mats and Ralf J. during the solo gives the song a lift. 'Pennywise And Pound Foolish' reminds me of Deep Purple, the phrasing in Goran’s voice coming across like Gillan, not a bad song but something feels missing As soon as 'Mr Cain' kicks in, Guns n’ Roses 'November Rain' beats me round the head! Just without the edge to it. Next up is 'Fool’s Paradise' and the music is beginning to sound very clinical and clean. 'Crusaders' has another atmospheric beginning until Ralf J. riffs for his life. Unfortunately that’s about as good as it gets. The song is note perfect and about as dangerous as a bunny rabbit. Penultimate song 'Grey
Goo' is aptly named. Goran
Edman tries vainly to inject something into the song but not even the
chorus can save it. Last song, 'Innervations' starts off with a
total 80’s keyboard sound before some meaty guitar kicks in but by the
verse it’s downhill. The musicianship on here stands out but the songs themselves come across very smooth and clinical, while the production feels very clean. Unfortunately the songs on here don’t have that edge to them, they’re a bit empty and cold. Review by: Brassy |
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| Tracklisting:
1. Xstacy
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