Mike Shouse – Alone on the Sun – Review

Shouse - Alone on the Sun

Kentucky guitar session player, virtuoso and teacher Mike Shouse released his debut solo project “Alone on the Sun” in June 2010. This CD features 10 very strong compositions, which seem to focus on showcasing his versatility and virtuosity on his instrument, rather than forming a commercially viable product. Music lovers who are into “guitar shredders” will certainly dig this CD.

The album kicks things off with a hooky, rocky piece that sets the tone for what’s to come. Initially I thought the spoken “Six Million Dollar Man” intro a little pretentious, but as soon as Shouse starts riffing and rocking out, it becomes clear that we are in fact witnessing a guitar demi-God launching into his initial address and “Bionic” is therefore, a very apt title for this scorching opener. Right from the start this CD rocks, delivering tune after tune of hard-hitting yet melodic anthems. By the time we reach “You Can Fly” we have braved an onslaught of the most amazing riffs and licks, as Shouse dances nimbly across scales and modes. “You can Fly” starts with an expertly recorded acoustic guitar, which then launches into an atmospheric groove, again pressing the right buttons and throwing the listener into a whole different set of emotions. The album continues to the end, delivering a consistent standard of material each and every time. Also of note is the penultimate track which has guest vocalist Gene Booth providing an excellent delivery and making this song complete. In some ways, it is a shame that he does not feature on more of this material, as I’m sure that his voice would compliment the guitarist rather than overshadow him.

The CD is packaged in eye-catching flame and shadow graphics with fire reflected in Shouse’s sunglasses. The cover is wholly appropriate given that this work is totally “hot” however I couldn’t help but be amused by the designers decision to remove Mike’s derrière in order to fit in some of the typography!

Perhaps due to the fact that Shouse has crammed so much substance and energy into this album (so as to showcase his immense talent and flexibility in one disk) it represents the absolute antithesis of easy-listening. For this reason, I don’t believe it has much mainstream commercial potential other than for those who really appreciate the technical brilliance of what he has achieved. In other words; aspiring guitarists and musos, and those who turn away from the mediocre and mundane high-charting music in favor of the avant-garde. The distinct lack of vocals (or even space for vocals) deliberately sets it apart from the commercial rock genre.

Overall this is an incredible debut album from Shouse. One which demands to be played loud! Mike Shouse is undoubtedly a demi-God of the electric guitar. His seemingly effortless licks, riffs and chops communicate to his audience and command our respect. If you are impressed with the work of acts such as Bozzio-Levins-Stevens, or crave the technical brilliance of Satriani and Vai, you will no doubt appreciate the work of Michael Shouse. I for one, will certainly await his next work with baited breath.

For more on “Alone on the Sun“, check out www.mikeshousemusic.com. Find more reviews and music at IMD (Indie Music Digest).

This article was written by Neil Thomas for Rock n Roll View.