Band:	Paul Gilbert
Album:	Fuzz Universe
Style:	Hard rock, Heavy metal, Progressive metal, Blues rock, Neoclassical rock, Pop rock
Release date:	June 2010

01. Fuzz Universe
02. Olympic
03. Count Juan Chutrifo
04. Bach Partita In Dm
05. Blue Orpheus
06. Will My Screen Door Stop Neptune
07. Propeller
08. Don't Rain On My Firewood
09. Plastic Dracula
10. Blowtorch
11. Mantra The Lawn
12. Batter Up

Fuzz Universe, an album from progressive shredder Paul Gilbert is not a well known album on this website. At the time of this review, 14 people had it. Hopefully that will change, because Paul Gilbert proves he deserves a spot with the most well known shredders there are, like Yngwie Malmsteen and Steve Vai.


The album begins with a monumental track, "Fuzz Universe". The intro leads into an amazing riff, which both chugs along and includes a great melody. As each new riff is introduced, the listener gets another dose of the great songwriting here; every note sounds great, the song progresses beautifully, and injected into the music every now and then are quick shots of fast and furious shredding. The guitar solos expand on this, and Gilbert's talent in really put on display. Speed is present, but at the same time, he manages to have his own distinct sound. "Fuzz Universe" is just one song showing this, and even more diversity is demonstrated in the rest of the album. The next track, "Olympic", is completely different, and has a funkier vibe to it. But, the music is just as strong, and what it accomplishes is shining the personality of Paul Gilbert even brighter and adding another dimension to his music. Other standout tracks include "Count Jaun Chufrito" and "Don't Rain on My Firewood", although almost every track is very good and there is little to no filler present.

So the performance from Paul Gilbert is spot on throughout, and he has a very distinct playing style. This is important, because while a lot of guitar soloing is technical and fast, a lot of it is devoid of emotion or an individual flavour to separate it from the pack. It's refreshing to hear an album so original, and with so much variety and personality. The songwriting is very good, and most of the tracks are put together very well.

So, all in all, Fuzz Universe is an outstanding album. Paul Gilbert gives us a very well put together piece of music, showcasing his technical ability, songwriting skill, and distinct sound. He has created an album all his own, one like no other. It is worth noting that start to finish, it is simply a fun, rewarding listening experience. It is an excellent album any fans of Paul Gilbert probably already own, and any fans of other shredders like Yngwie Malmsteen, or just good music, should not hesistate to pick up.