Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA The Astronauts (Holland) - ST
 | Astronauts (Holland play in the Euro guitar mold, but not so much as to be just one of the crowd. The product on this disc buries the lead such that it renders many of the energetic tracks much less powerful than they could be, and likely less hot than the band is live. There's no surf here, but this is an excellent Euro guitar released. |
Picks: Brozem Rock, Strings, Pacific, The Storm, China Rock, Guitar Samba, Buckaroo, Ragtime Baby
Track by Track Review
Euro (Instrumental)
"Brozem Rock" is a rhythmic and moving piece of music. It's melodic and fluid, and pretty rockin'. My only complaint wit this track is how far back in the mix the lead guitar is.
Euro (Instrumental)
Softly moving through a lovely melody and easy rhythm, "Strings" flows with a gentle gate and romantic sound. Nicely done, if not particularly memorable.
Euro (Instrumental)
With the drama of a march and an atmospheric sound, "Pacific" presents a scenic vision of gentle islands and easy breezes. It's quite a pretty track.
Euro (Instrumental)
With a bit of spit and vinegar, "The Storm" rolls across the soundscape with the relief of an after the storm optimism. Great rhythm guitar and drums set the stage.
Euro (Instrumental)
Opening with a classic oriental riff, "China Rock" quickly drops into something more like a guitar boogie shuffle. While it's bouncy and infectious, the low-in-the-mix lead guitar doesn't capture you as strongly as it could.
Euro (Instrumental)
"Guitar Samba" is quite fun and bouncy, with lots to give it an intriguing sound. Despite the mix, the it's an enjoyable track with a grin.
Euro (Instrumental)
Great twangin' fun in this somewhat toned down performance. Its very atmospheric product doesn't highlight the energy, but does give it a unique flavor. Bob Morris's anthem of Twangland "Buckaroo" was a hit for Buck Owens and the Buckaroos.
Euro (Instrumental)
Rockin' country fun abounds in "Ragtime Baby" as the band grins its way through the song. Very bouncy and fun!