Guitarist/keyboardist really hits his stride on . While it's not all that different from his first album, , it's just much better. The album's captivating / forays are filled with plenty of beautiful melodies and hair-raising solos; simply lights up the fretboard -- and the keyboard, for that matter. Opening with a stormy harpsichord motif, the album's leadoff track, sounds promising from the start. The piece soars with dramatic precision and features some truly breathtaking guitar/keyboard interplay. The album rarely falters from there; the flash guitar workout of which moves at warp speed, gives way to the gorgeous featuring guest solos by . 's penchant for dramatic soundscapes gives his pieces a rich, cinematic feel. The variety of textures on this album -- not to mention a wealth of beautiful melodies -- keep it continually interesting. Other highlights include -- its lilting melody borrowed from -- and 's verbatim recital of 's is essential listening for anyone interested in instrumental guitar music. ~ Andy Hinds