AMINO ACID FLASHBACK

I honestly can't recall how I came across this CD, must have been a recommendation. Had I known about Chris Poland as a member of Megadeath, I would have given it an absolute miss as the name of the band alone would make me put barbed wire all around my place. I don't at all know their music and with such name chosen, it's unlikely that I would have ever been even remotely curious.

Well, it only shows that judgement is "not preferable", or as Frank Zappa could have said: "May your judgement come to life and kiss you." (He used a different term in place of judgement, but on these pages I'd rather not repeat that.)

So, to the point. This release would make me eat "humble pie" as it has become an instant favorite receiving endless repeats on day one. Nothing to do with Metal, but quality Jazz Rock/Fusion which is probably my most preferred genre in Prog.

This album was likened to Brand X, something I am not in agreement with. That is not to say that it's not equally great, but without Morris Pert (RIP) on percussion even Brand X have never been the same. Indeed, this release is far superior to the reincarnation of Brand X without Pert.

I would rather compare it to more of Gary Boyle's Isotope, some Holdsworth licks thrown in and even elements of Steve Morse's Dixie Dregs minus the odd, southern flavor. The delivery here is tight, precise with a relentless drive from all involved. In short, an absolute gem.

My only gripe is that on my copy the production is not that great, reminiscent of 1973 CBS recordings of Miles Davis, Soft Machine, Mahavishnu, etc, as if it was taped in a pantry. Still, the music represents tremendous appeal to me and calls for a resounding 5.

A word of caution. Going on my great enjoyment of this work, in recent days I've explored other works by Chris Poland. Solo, the other Ohm album and Ohmfrey, to be precise. None of those provided comparable excitement to me, so this release appears to be one of a kind.