JOHN WESLEY (Porcupine Tree) – Disconnect (2014)
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JOHN WESLEY has spent much of the last decade supporting some of the best bands in the world, including Porcupine Tree and ex-Marillion Fish. Yet, Wesley also has an extensive solo career as well, and with “Disconnect”, his new album released today, he aims to get back in the spotlight with his own music.
On the 10 song album, Wesley comes out guitars blazing. Each song showcases his guitar brilliance, not only with shredding, but with on point phrasing and feel influenced by the likes of Steve Wilson, David Gilmour, Alex Lifeson from Rush (guest on the track “Once A Warrior”), and even some Jeff Beck.
But there’s other significant element on “Disconnect”: Wesley’s vocals. He has a great melodic voice, emotive and passionate at times, and definitely pleasing.
“Disconnect” is not a full-on Prog record, but there are many elements that are drawn from his work with the aforementioned acts. You will find the odd times, different song structures and yes, plenty of guitars, but also melodic tunes easy to the ears.
The opening title track and lead single, “Disconnect” is a bit influenced by his work with Steven Wilson and Porcupine Tree, kicking off with tribal beats and vocal swells. The chorus is deceptive and slowly becomes memorable as the song builds into a powerful rock track.
Wesley describes that he uses his six-string solos as an extension of the lyrics and vocals on a composition, and this is apparent in songs like “Any Old Saint” which during the last minutes features Wesley soloing without a return to the vocals, and it is executed perfectly.
One of the highlights on the album is the track “Once A Warrior” which features Rush’s Alex Lifeson on guitar. John’s vocals show maturity and elegance, while we can hear breaks into different guitar oriented sections without worrying about getting back to a verse or chorus immediately. And the solo is pure Alex Lifeson, his tone and use of the whammy bar is unmistakeable and a treat to have in this song.
On “Window”, Wesley enters into more rock&pop territory for a mid-tempo song which has a very radio friendly feel and chorus. Then “Mary Will” is a powerful ballad with some of John’s best guitar work on the album, with the opening riff carrying through the verse and allowing the vocals to flow.
“How Goes The War” starts off with a guitar and rum assault and abruptly slows to a calm for the verses. This song has a strong chorus filled with harmonies and would fit right into any arena rock show.
“Satellite”, an acoustic song, closes out the record with some nice accompanying strings.
With guitar in hand, a strong voice, and creative compositions, John Wesley has delivered another fine album in “Disconnect”.
This is an extremely enjoyable and well-written record no only focused to Prog aficionados, plenty of melody and creativity, and immaculately produced.
Pleasantly Recommended.
01 – Disconnect
02 – Any Old Saint
03 – Once a Warrior
04 – Window
05 – Gets You Everytime
06 – Mary Will
07 – Take What You Need
08 – How Goes the War
09 – New Life Old Sweat
10 – Satellite
John Wesley – guitars, vocals
Dean Tidey – guitars
Mark Prator – drums
Patrick Bettison – bass
Geri X – backing vocals
Alex Lifeson (Rush) – guest guitar
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www.cmdistro.com/Item/John_Wesley_-_Disconnect_-PRE-ORDER-/47361
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