LYRICS FOR THE LIVING

VISUAL CLIFF are an all instrumental trio from Pittsburg Pa.This is their first studio record. On this release the drummer (Rick Mals) also plays the bass guitar, there is also a keyboard player (Rob Klan) and the star of the show (Rob Perez) the lead guitarist. On their next release they would add a full time bass player. Even though there are no lyrics, there is a Biblical theme to this cd. The first five songs are each linked to one of the Psalms, while the last three are dedicated to the future in a spiritual way. This isn't a heavy record by any means. I would describe the overall feel as warm and on the lighter side (in a good way).

The first two songs are similar in style, both are great. While I was listening to "The Endless Generation" I was thinking "There is something beautiful in the air". The gentle guitar turns heavy and then gentle and then heavy, back and forth. The keyboards really compliment the guitar in this one, and as in "Leap Of Faith" the keyboards are warm and help create atmosphere but don't take the spotlight at all.

"Spirit Filled" is a gentle song with some nice soaring guitar. "Conquering Mind" is where Rob's guitar playing shines, the way he picks at it is amazing ! "Wisdom's Call" may be the best song on the album. There is a RUSH feel to the bass playing with the lead guitar playing overtop RIVERSIDE style. The last song "Rapture" is the heaviest with the bass and drums creating a heavy undercurrent, while the lead guitar breaks out of this over and over.

Excellent release! 4 solid stars!