Echo Rebel’s Verdict on Musicman Stu’s Latest Instrumental Odyssey
Echo Scale™: ★★★★ (4.1)
Here at Echo Rebel, we were buzzing about Musicman Stu’s “Nar Nar”, a track we hailed as progressive, intelligent, and delightfully bizarre. Little did we know, that quirky instrumental gem was merely the launch sequence for something far grander. Released appropriately on a Friday the 13th, Stu’s new album, “Zenith,” isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a sprawling, genre-bending narrative told entirely through the voice of his guitar. From high fantasy to dying cosmonauts, 70s funk fever dreams to New Zealand legends, Stu’s inspirations are as wild and wonderful as his fretboard wizardry.
Revisiting the Launchpad: “Nar Nar”
My esteemed colleague, Kenny, rightly pegged “Nar Nar” as a masterclass in progressive, intelligent, and yes, beautifully bizarre instrumentalism. As a guitarist myself, I deeply appreciate Stu’s uncanny knack for note selection and crafting melodies that truly resonate. Even the dissonant tapping licks speak volumes, ensuring the listener never settles, always leaning in for the next twist. The production on “Nar Nar” is undeniably clean, even if it occasionally leans into “reverb pedal advertisement” territory. But hey, it sets the stage for what’s to come!
The Journey Commences: A Track-by-Track Dive
“The Legend” immediately thrusts me into a different sonic landscape. The harsh and abrupt production change here genuinely jarred me at first, though it didn’t diminish the sheer enjoyment of the track itself. Stu is back at it with his signature melodic chops, quick fingers, and a seemingly effortless ability to make any melody fit any beat. What I truly admire is his commitment to authenticity – no hiding behind noise gates or sterile perfection here. Stu plays with undeniable swagger, and his songs possess that same unvarnished, powerful energy. Nice one, Stu.
Next up, “Ancient Gravity,” confirms Stu’s penchant for these sudden production shifts – a stylistic choice I quickly learn to anticipate. This track is a slower, more contemplative affair, beautifully capturing that sensation of a mind drifting backward, pondering divergent paths. That’s the beauty of instrumental music, isn’t it? The listener fills in the blanks. Here, Stu masterfully paints a scene, with electronic elements seamlessly weaving into the guitar work, enhancing rather than competing with the narrative.
“Earthshaker” defies all conventional wisdom. “There’s no such thing as wrong notes, just the wrong notes for the song,” they say. Well, Stu clearly didn’t get that memo. He makes notes work, whether they like it or not, and somehow, he absolutely smashes it every single time. He plays in the key of Musicman Stu, and frankly, that’s badass. This track is lighter and airier, yet no less technically impressive. A particular shout-out is due for that groovy, groovy bassline. Phwoar!
Mid-Flight Manoeuvres: Funk, Jokes, and Cosmic Vibes
“Louie De Palma’s Bitter Blues” kicks off with a warm, inviting clean intro, thanks to a perfectly chosen chorus. This song, however, marks the most significant production leap yet, falling noticeably below the volume of the rest of the album, almost jarringly so. But despite this, it’s got funk, groove, and all of Musicman Stu’s signature technical wizardry. A seriously solid addition.
Then comes “Suburban Jungle,” a track that throws the rulebook out the window. They tell you to make the guitar ask a question and then answer it. Stu, true to form, asks a question, then another, then delivers a dirty joke, and probably a haiku about fish for good measure. This song is a wonderfully chaotic masterpiece, an ode to a musician so confident in his abilities that he’s transcended the rules and simply declared, “Let me show you what I can do.” Big up, Musicman Stu – this is undeniably cool. A minor note: a little more presence for the rhythm guitars would have truly elevated this wild ride.
“The Vivid Colours of a Cosmonaut’s Life” lives up to its glorious title. An intro that screams “alien abduction”? Check. Fat 80s guitar tone? Check. This track is where Stu’s cited influence of Zappa shines brightest. While the drums might sound a touch like a toy kit, the undeniable atmosphere the song builds is pure cosmic wonder.
Descent into Zenith: Familiar Echoes and Final Thoughts
“Wyld Stallions Still Rule” injects a hefty dose of electronic elements, making it sound both futuristic and strangely familiar. Its uncanny resemblance to the “Catchphrase” theme tune is both hilarious and surprisingly fitting. But whether it’s a game show jingle or a colossal spaceship gliding overhead, Stu once again proves his mastery at conjuring vivid imagery from instrumental soundscapes.
“Just Like Nirvana” is almost certainly named after the concept of enlightenment, but I’m sticking with the idea it’s a cheeky nod to the grunge band – because, let’s be honest, this couldn’t be less like Nirvana. Instead, it’s a glorious onslaught of massive harmonised guitars, played with skill and grace. The harmonies have a spontaneous, “made up as he goes” vibe, and if that’s the case, it makes the entire album even more impressive.
Finally, I arrive at “Glowing Mana,” which, for me, unfortunately, doesn’t quite deliver the grand finish I yearned for. In terms of technique and sheer guitar quality, it’s all there, but it lacks the intensity to be a true climax. The bass, while present, is harshly loud, almost to a fault, a jarring production choice that significantly dampens an otherwise strong album.
The Verdict: Stu’s Unapologetic Genius
Musicman Stu plays by his own rulebook, and he demands you get on board. He’s a master technician with a guitar in hand and an unbelievable ear for melody. “Zenith” is a seriously cool album, and consider me a card-carrying fan. It’s undeniably frustrating that some of the inconsistent and at times bewildering production choices repeatedly detract from what would otherwise be an absolutely incredible, unblemished triumph.
Despite these production missteps, Stu’s ballsy approach, his boundless creativity, and his undeniable talent make “Zenith” a must-listen for anyone yearning for instrumental music with character, depth, and a wicked sense of humor.
A lot of guitarists use their guitars to tell a story. Musicman Stu uses his to be f**king weird, and I think that’s so rock n roll.
Musicman Stu, we love you!
