Customer Reviews

Electrical Gas

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I received a copy of this from Mason and took a listen to it. The electric guitar addition to Largo De Luxe sounded surprisingly both refreshing and natural at the same time. In previous editions of the tune, the lead instrument was always a harmonica, which was okay, but it sounds more complete and natural with the stratocaster over it. It gives it almost a Santos and Johnny "Sleepwalk" effect to it, which suits the music better. I recently heard that this version is being submitted for Grammy consideration, which I think it deserves. Riding the Low Moon is excellent and probably the best track on the album. I've listened to this version over and over again for weeks. Country Idyll is much the same as the old version, with more drum hooks tossed in that ends up making the update totally worth it. The Last Crusade is a humorous take on an older tune Mason wrote with alternating names, it was previously known as "Common Ground", "Tierra Commun", "Fettucini Western", and perhaps more. The orchestral arrangement spotlights the excellent guitarwork of Zoe McCulloch and takes what used to be a purely classical piece into a new realm of Ventures like surfer rock. Eric Hamilton had recorded a similar idea, but this one could end up being a classic among Pipeline guitarists. It has inspired me to go back and look at the wealth of instrumental rock of the 50's and 60's.

One of the first LP's I owned was "The Mason Williams Phonograph Record." When I noticed this update I had to give it a try, I still like "Classical Gas" and the electric versions of some of his other guitar classics. Nice backround music but I still prefer the Rolling Stones 40 years later!

I discovered this album while exploring music by Mannheim Steamroller and bought it because I am a fan of Mason Williams' "Classical Gas." An energetic electronic update to the original acoustic is the first performance on the album, and in my opinion "Classical Gas 2005" is every bit as interesting and fun as the original. The remainder of the album varies from hauntingly beautiful (Riding the Low Moon), to epic (The Last Crusade), to western-like (Eddie I'm Ready), to just plain electronic fun (Doot-Doot). The music on this album is too interesting to fade into the background. I find myself being called to stop and listen to its magic. Mason Williams and guitarist Zoe McCulloch make a great team. I'm impressed and pleased with my purchase.

What can I say? Vintage Williams doing what he does best. Sit back, enjoy, and lower your blood pressure.