(SPV) Total Time: 58:23
On his previous album, Transcendental Sky Guitar, the maestro gave us a hint of things to come, with his amazing rendition of "Tuona e Fulmina" that he performed live. Now he’s gone and revisited the entire universally acclaimed Vivaldi’s masterpiece “the four seasons” in it’s entirety with the aid of a small orchestra and his 7 stringed sky guitar. He has also added some inspiring poetry in between the sections. Keeping true to Antonio Vivaldi’s spirit Roth explores the neoclassical genre but takes it a step further. He uses his guitar in a clearly classical way as an instrument in an orchestra, exceeding the limitations of the format. All the lead violin parts are painstakingly emulated through Uli’s guitar playing. And the most amazing thing of all is that the guitar does not overshadow the other instruments but is harmonically utilized and the result is nothing sort of sheer brilliance. The first thirteen tracks of the cd represent the intro as well as the orchestral rendition of Antonio Vivaldi’s : “The Four seasons” by Uli and his Sky Orchestra that does a terrific job in providing an excellent accompaniment, while the remaining eleven tracks are variations based on the “four seasons” or original compositions in the classical vein. Never ceasing on his quest for enlightment Uli bridges the classical and neoclassical formats with his elegant, articulate and sensational playing. Metamorphosis is a modern day masterpiece that redefines Uli as an artist and takes him to new heights of artistic vision and musical perfection. One of the most interesting things that I have heard this year. I humbly bow to the musical genius of Uli Jon Roth, the master of the sky guitar. Now let’s see how he might top this musical triumph.
