THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE: AXIS - BOLD AS LOVE

Songwriting, songwriting, and more songwriting: that is what separates Axis from its predecessor Are You Experienced. On Axis, Jimi seems to actually put thought into the music being committed to tape. And the results are simply revolutionary. Take "Spanish Castle Magic" for instance. The core of this song is still blues- based riffing. But thanks to interesting supplemental chords, syncopated drumming, and a dose of Hendrix magic, the song is a hard rock trip unlike anything heard before.

The record is further bolstered by a legendary rhythm guitar performance by Hendrix. Though usually known for his bombastic soloing, Hendrix's rhythm guitar work on tracks like "Little Wing," "Bold as Love, " and "Castles Made of Sand" is nothing short of masterful.