Werewolves of Portland

Werewolves of Portland is a work on which Paul Gilbert, using singing-like guitar and varied rhythms, further widens the rich narrative particular to instrumentals. His consistent philosophy of using the guitar not as a mere fast-picking tool but like a human singing “voice” is again clearly shown. Freely moving between rock, fusion, blues and pop elements, he gives each song clear melody and a standout character. From the humorous momentum of the opener “Hello! North Dakota!” and the powerful title track “Werewolves of Portland” to a cut like “My Goodness,” the songs give off vivid expression even without words, while playful song titles like “Argument About Pie” and “Meaningful” are also in his manner. Outstanding technique is of course vivid, yet what lingers is the humor dwelling in the phrases and the rich emotional movement. A free record to recommend not only to guitar fans but to a wide range of listeners who want to feel rich stories and vivid scenery in music without words. Even as a veteran, his creative drive and playfulness have not dimmed in the least. Letting you fully savor Paul Gilbert’s mature expression as a guitarist, it is a powerful, fun instrumental work — a record where his appeal is in full bloom.