ALBUM REVIEW ~ GUS G ~ 'QUANTUM LEAP'

I'm Music Magazine, Gus G, Quantum Leap, AFM Records, Fierce, Dennis Ward, Firewind, Ozzy Ozzy Osbourne

Guitar afficionado Gus G returns with his third solo album, Quantum Leap via AFM Records, released on October 8th. Quantum Leap is the follow up to 2018’s Fearless and sees the guitarist showcase his extraordinary talents on ten-instrumental tracks. The album came about when plans to record a new album with his band Firewind were shelved due to the lockdown last year.

The ex-Ozzy sideman met drummer Vincent Velasco in a chance meeting to set up production for a solo effort with producer/engineer Dennis Ward in assisting in making the album. Gus G helped program drums, keyboards, guitar, and bass for the release, whilst Ward helped mix and master.

The powerful melodic stylings of “Into the Unknown” kicks this into touch with depth and precision. Next up is “Exosphere”, which has progressive metal elements, as Gus G expresses himself more throughout. He has learned no to stick with one style, but rather explore other genres. Gus G assimilates his usual technical prowess with winding harmonies and raging riffs. This is evidenced on “Judgement Day” and “Majeure”. This isn’t just the one type of song he sticks too, on “Enigma of Life” Gus G plays a bluesy ballad that you can imagine sat playing by the beachside. Whilst on the penultimate track “Not Forgotten” he mixes long melodic passages with a hazy alternate finger- picking style to create an atmospheric vibe that resonates with the listener.

Overall, Quantum Leap can at times feel like it blends into one another. However, the innovative approach and an ability to take a chance with something new makes this album feel fresh and appealing.

I’m Music Magazine Writer Anselm Anderson