LOOK UP THERE

Wow, Buckethead is finally on ProgArchives! About time! Anyway, I thought I'd review this particular record of his from that everlasting discography (whoever's updating it btw, I am eternally grateful unto you), because it's without a doubt my favourite. It should seriously be heralded amongst "Colma", "Electric Tears", and other exalted albums. It came out soon after I discovered Buckethead, and I've got to say this early pike has something else going for it. Almost, but regrettably not quite "masterpiece"-worthy, I'm giving this an extremely high 4-stars. "Look Up There" consists of two lengthy improvisations...

"Golden Eyes" kicks off the album, with a strangely warming and inticing theme, played on a shrill, slightly wah-wah guitar. He basically retains this tone throughout the song, and the relatively high register he plays on the guitar is consistent, so I'd have to say it's a little restricted in the big picture. However, the remainder of the track displays many great techniques, appreciative for even non-guitarists/musicians. Towards the end, he also employs some of his trademark robotic "killswitch", but in a slightly new light. In addition, he ends on some more variety with an octave pedal (reminiscent of that used on "Soothsayer" years before). These last few minutes definitely portray the potential Buckethead had to include on "Golden Eyes", but they were unfortunately not all carried out. The end result is therefore a little inconsistent, but the dexterity and soulfulness exhibited here make it stronger. He clearly has the ability side nailed, so I wish he focused a little more on composition, or at least organising his improvisations. Nevertheless, you must remember these are the few flaws to an outstanding piece.

The title track undergoes a gradual change throughout, that peaks and dips in a very controlled moderation, with some nice unexpected turns here and there. The entire song (like "Golden Eyes") is guitar-led, with a fitting drumbeat and bassline, plus some occasional synths. You hear many different themes or intricate riffs, almost reeled off in the intro, which culminate when Buckethead commences his improvisation with an excellent, comforting timbre and well-executed rhythm track. As a guitarist, I find it incredibly easy to get lost in the music on "Look Up There", as Buckethead pulls out familiar lines, ear-catching melodies, in addition to hypnotic tone-based parts and his signature shredding, but still keeps it incredibly soulful. The whole time, you're right there in the moment, enjoying the serenade of a guitar god jamming with himself. Technically speaking, there is no change in key or backing throughout the latter 20 minutes, so it's really a freeze-frame that depicts whatever you envision/wherever he takes you when you listen. The subtle but spectacular sonic alterations help you on this "journey", as you stand in a brief absentia, free of time. All too soon, he begins to faintly fade away into oblivion, almost suggesting he's still out there doing his thing.

B+: Without doubt, as good as modern guitar music gets. A unique record, extremely well done given the limited resources he utilises.

Golden Eyes: **** Look Up There: *****