Search - Hellecasters :: Escape from Hollywood

The BEST Hellecaster album

D. B. Eddy | SE corner of VA, USA | 08/13/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"
Of the three they put out, this is the best. So buy it, enjoy it and prepare to be amazed."

Actually 3.5 stars-- My least favorite Hellecasters album

Nobody important | 06/28/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Unlike the other reviewer, I consider this to be my least favorite Hellecasters album. First, of course, I must state the obvious. Will Ray, John Jorgenson and Jerry Donahue are outstanding guitarists who can play any style. Their instrumental styles are all distinctive, yet they blend well together. Their recorded output is required listening for fans of guitar instrumental albums, and the telecaster in particular. This album, too, is required listening. Contrary to the narrow-minded opinions of those unfamiliar with Danny Gatton, Roy Buchanan, Albert Lee, Arlen Roth and the other masters of the telecaster, the instrument is capable of a broad range of sounds in a broad array of genres.



That said, this is my least favorite Hellecasters album. Return of the Hellecasters and Hell III are both more cohesive albums. Return of the Hellecasters is the most country of the albums, and Hell III is the hardest rocking album. This album is probably the most diverse, and that works both in its favor, and against it. This album is well worth hearing to get a sense of just how much range telecasters have. However, some of the tunes, like the Inspector Gadget theme, cross the line from fun into kitsch. Other tracks sound a bit dated, and similar to the heavy metal shredders of the 80's and 90's that I never really liked. (Of course, if you are a fan of Satriani, Vai et al., those tracks won't bother you). The album itself winds up sounding a bit jumbled. There are, of course, brilliant moments here, and if you have enjoyed any of the other Hellecasters albums, you will find plenty to appreciate here. This is a good album. However, it just doesn't quite measure up to the other two Hellecasters albums for me. Those new to the Hellecasters should start with Return of the Hellecasters.



Further listening: there is a new Hellecasters-style outfit called The Bendegos, featuring Matt Rae and Forrest Lee. Also, look into Twangorama, which is a bit more jazz/rock fusion-based."