Post Description

Confusion - Genesis (2001)(kickass fusion)

Achilleas Diamantis returns from his debut with a new group named "Confusion" that takes its name for Diamantis first album and that takes his brand of intensive fusion to the next level. The opening track comes straight at the listener with some aggressive, fusionish guitar work that is reminiscent of Sir Holdsworth with its speed and outside harmonization. The increase in aggression is a marked departure from Diamantis first effort and distinguishes this CD from its predecessor. But, like the debut, this album exemplifies Diamantis' painstaking efforts to compose impressive compositions with paradoxically complex yet fluid arrangements that demonstrate a lot of thought and insight. The guitar work that is characterized by more aggression, grit, and speed than the first effort is sure to raise the brows of agressive fusion fans that may have been lulled into complacency by the first album (though I liked this album too). The balance of unusual melody lines, speedy, chaotic runs, and ever-changing soundscapes should fit the bill for listeners who can't stand to sit still. 

The composition and soloing on Genesis are attention-keeping throughout. The caliber of musicianship is consistently good throughout, as well. And, the production quality captures the complex instrumental work with crystal clarity.

The seventh track, "Escaped Soul", is built around balladic melodies reminiscent of the great fusion pioneer Jeff Beck, though played with a Diamantis spin. This track adds a new angle to the album with its return to a smoother, more refined form of jazz that again demonstrates Diamantis' wide scope, as well as good taste. "Escaped Soul" revisits the types of voicings and carefully placed phrasings that characterized Diamantis' first album.

Diamantis and company have produced a fine fusion effort on Genesis. Confusion has carved a niche for themselves with their unique brand of complex yet cohesive composition that is centered around aggressive fusion. If you like outside harmonization that strikes some balance with palatability, and if you like continually changing arrangements, then you might want to try this one on for size. Some of the ideas lean more towards the abstract end of the spectrum rather than accessible, but overall the content is pretty well-rounded. Give it a shot!

Lineup;
Guitar Achilleas Diamantis 
Bass Panagiotis Haramis 
Drums Takis Intas 
Keyboards Stratos Diamantis 
Vocals Kristieanne Travers 

Tracks;
1) Intro 
2) Where R U? 
3) 7 To 4 
4) Traveler in Time 
5) Sick 
6) The Fool 
7) Escaped Soul 
8) Occupational Hazard 
9) Spunky 
10) Ending 

STEUN DE ARTIEST EN KOOP DE CD !!!