PHIL KEAGGY & REX PAUL – Illumination (2019)

If you’re a classic rock fan you shoulda heard the name PHIL KEAGGY, named one of the world’s top-three “finger-style” / “finger-picking” guitarists by Guitar Player Magazine. Joining him on his latest project is producer / guitarist REX PAUL Schnelle, and the result is an album titled “Illumination”.

Phil Keaggy is perhaps one of the most admired guitarists in music today, mentioned by musicians from all genres as big influence. His solo career has spanned more than 40 years, and has included over 60 solo albums, both vocal and instrumental, 8 releases with his band, Glass Harp, as well as numerous duets and trio albums.
Rex Paul is well known producer with more than 25 years of experience, and a busy session musician as well.

On “Illumination”, both artists have composed a bunch of new songs with a timeless feeling, and re-worked some of Keaggy’s old songs in the style / sound of this new album.

I will give you an idea of what this CD is all about in few lines: “Illumination” is classic rock with a poppy melodic proggy touch, where Keaggy’s vocals brings to mind Billy Sherwood, Rex Paul guitar style is some kind of Dann Huff meets Eric Johnson, and all produced in a way of ex-Yes Trevor Rabin would do.
You get it, right?

The AORish ‘Calling Us Home’ or ‘Nothing Can Separate Us’ indeed brings to mind ’80s Yes, the rocking ‘Time’ White Heart, then ‘I Believe’ or ‘Full Circle’ World Trade, and there’s some Asia on ‘ Don’t Hold Back’.
As said, “Illumination” is plenty of timeless melodies and superb guitar work / solos. and very, very strong songs.

The musicianship – no personnel listed – is top notch, and really impress the awesome production; huge, crystal clear, much in the ‘1989 style’.
Highly Recommended

01 – Calling Us Home
02 – Time
03 – Nothing Can Separate Us
04 – Glorify Your Name
05 – Let Everything Else Go
06 – I Believe
07 – Spend My Life With You
08 – You Never Know
09 – Full Circle
10 – Don’t Hold Back
11 – Day Of The Lord

Phil Keaggy – vocals. guitars
Rex Paul Schnelle – guitars, vocals

BUY IT !
www.philkeaggy.com/store/phil-keaggy-amp-rex-paul-illumination-cd
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