Paul Clark - Shredz At An Exhibition (2006)Rusty Cage Records

This Englishman started to play drums at the age of nine, and guitar at the age of twelve. He studied classical music and graduated from University of London. You can remember his name from the David Cross Band (Yup, this Cross of King Crimson!). But the highlight of this review is his solo debut album. The music has been written since 2000 and actually ready in the year 2002, but the stuff was re-mastered by a Dutch label visible above.

The concept of "Shredz At An Exhibition" is peculiar, since there are a few stories representing particular pictures hidden behind each of the tracks. Surely, you will come up agains Artaud - a 20th century French poet, artist and philosopher, but you will also meet with the names of Hodler and Theodore Gericault among others. Paul focused his attention on spiritual side of life as well illustrating with guitar tones a biblical tale concerning the execution of John the Baptist.

There is no doubt that Clarky's music can be described as cinematic, heavy and emotional. On the other hand, it is also dramatic, theatrical and, obviously, shredding. Mr. Clark can dose a tension and keep the listener in musical suspense. I do like his solo twisters, complex tones and rationally used wah-wah effect. Fast solos set Clarky amid classic shredders, but art surround makes his music something staggeringly novel indeed. His flexible fingers are perfectly designed both for thrilling parts and romantic ones. In other words, he is able to jump from one genre to another, even if they are stark styles. Long and sophisticated compositions are so well-composed that boredom seems to be impossible. Orchestral sequences show Clarky as a musician classicaly trained and classicaly thinking. I am absolutely sure that bewitching melodies and their professional execution can absorb your attention entirely, my Dear Readers.

But what about album's cover? What a desecration, haha! It represents Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" from 1503. It is presumably the portrait of Francesco del Giocondo's wife. He was a nobleman from Florence. Never mind, who sprayed "Mona Lisa" with multicoloured graffiti in my gallery, haha? Shall I call the police, haha? Anyway, I must admit that "Shredz At An Exhibition" is a great musical illustration of art gallery. I think that I would have visited art galleries more often, if there "Shredz At An Exhibition" had been played! The more so because Clarky's guitar style is a mixture of Michael Harris, Patrick Rondat, Chris Steberl and Michael Angelo. It is the first art shredding soundtrack I have ever heard, though movie atmosphere is comparable to Tom Hess' solo works. Listening to this CD is a valuable experience, so an unorthodox impressions guaranteed!