When guitar instrumental albums land at Hard Rock House then generally they end up finding there way onto my desk for review. As I'd like to think that I'm something of a guitarist myself I always leap at the chance, open to hearing what guitarists on the fringes of discovery are coming up with. In the guitar world, despite what casual fans of the genre may feel, there is more to life than Vai, Satriani, Gilbert, Malmsteen et al. Sure they may be top of the food chain but below this is a wealth of tasty guitarists who may not have the recognition of the aforementioned players but who still have the same amount of drive and creative vision. One such player is Michael Elsner. Rather than wait for the big break to come a long and, as a result, maybe miss out on establishing himself altogether Elsner has kept himself busy and his biography shows that he is very much a motivated individual who has tried to make his own luck through hard work, and for that he should be commended.

Falling for the guitar aged twelve Elsner embarked on a rigorous practice regime to enable him to hone his chops and become proficient as a player. All this dedication has led to him contributing to the Fret Talk column in “Rock & Read Magazine”, publishing an instructional book “Introspective Guitar”, getting 16 songs of his recorded by other artists, playing sessions for Miramax films, television shows and soundtracks. In 2006 he became lead guitarist for the two time Grammy nominated Sarah Kelly, performed on an episode of American Idol Extra with Anthony Federov and played in the house band on the Megan Mullally Show behind Billy Ray Cyrus. Somehow, as if all that wasn't enough, Elsner has also found the time to put together this, his first solo album with help from drummer Jeff Bowders, bassist John Massey and keyboard player Bryce Bell.

Over the course of the ten tracks on offer Elsner covers straight ahead rock but also touches on blues, funk and even some acoustic workouts. After the first few plays the impression that was strongest with regards to Elsner's playing was that he is very considered, and considerate, musician. By this I mean he plays very much for the song, nailing the vibe rather than letting his chops run amok. Another striking aspect of the CD is how well organized the arrangements of each song are and that many of them would be great to jam along with due to their interesting chord progressions, especially on the rock tracks. It’s obvious that Elsner's experience in the session world has instilled in him the ability to create songs that get straight to the point.

There are definitely some fine moments here, in particular “Crack Puppies” with its muscular backing and lead guitar that is smooth and full. In fact the word creamy comes to mind. The slow bends dripping with a big broad wah effect also hit the spot and there are some lovely fluid runs and fills. “King It Down” is a laid back funk rocker with great harmony passages reminiscent of the great Ritchie Kotzen and Elsner’s rhythm playing proves slick and fruity and a great example of a loose, but tight style.

“Kayleigh’s Dream” on the other hand is a gorgeous acoustic piece, lyrical melodic playing and beautiful harmonies give this song an uplifting vibe whereas “Satch” does and is exactly what it says on the tin. Very much a homage to the up-tempo and straight-ahead rock playing of Mr. Satriani but with a cool middle section similar perhaps to Pink Floyd or Marillion, it’s fleeting but if you were to hear the track you would understand what I’m getting at. The closing track, “You Again”, features vocals and shows the strength of Elsner's songwriter. You could imagine numerous artists performing the song as its arrangement could easily be molded into a hard rock ballad, power ballad or soft rock workout.

All in all “Stained Voodoo” is a fine album from a very well rounded guitarist. Elsner has certainly learnt the less is more code of practice with regards to his playing and, as a result, when he does pull the stun licks out of the bag they sound more impressive in their musical surroundings. He balances technique and musicality perfectly, which enables the album to be enjoyable not just to guitarists but also to anyone with “open ears”. All in all this entire album will keep rewarding the listener on each spin.

Let us know your views on Stained Voodoo

Track Listing

Crack Puppies
Tsunami
King It Down
Chameleon
Stained
Voodoo
Kayleigh's Dream
Satch
Needle In The Groove
You Again

Line Up

Michael Elsner - Guitars
John Massey - Bass
Jeff Bowders - Drums
Bryce Bell - Keyboards