JAMES GRANT: Mythology

James Grant

Mythology

© 2005 james grant (783707161303)

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Electric guitar instrumentals,blend elements of progressive rock, modern jazz and electric blues, with an infusion of ambient sounds and samples combine for a mix of virtuoso, soulful guitar over evocative foundations.

tracks

1 Darkstar
2 Rainmaker
3 Oasis
4 Portal
5 Out Of The Blue
6 Mythology
7 Phenomonen
8 Jade
9 Austin Skyline
10 Patong Beach
11 Sangria
12 Silhouettes

notes

by Robert Kinsler: THE OC REGISTER
James Grant "Mythology"(independent) - James Grant's latest CD, "Mythology," is filled with technically perfect guitar work in the spirit of the '80s and '90s efforts by Joe Satriani. However, to draw simple comparisons with that pioneering player's approach would not paint a complete picture. Grant has the soul of a bluesman, notably on "Rainmaker" and "Oasis," on which the guitarist's work recalls Gary Moore's fretwork on "Still Got the Blues." Irvine-based Grant plays with incredible skill, wrapping expressive solos in textured arrangements that blend elements of progressive rock, modern jazz and electric blues. You might like if you enjoy: Joe Satriani, Eric Johnson, Gary Moore

From the CD Mythology, "Patong Beach" was aired on an ABC TV's primetime show called "MD's",behind a segment that featured Macy Gray. Also "Jade" received airplay from radio station CFOX.

Located in Southern California , James Says " I have the heart of a blues guitar player but have always been interested in opening up other harmonic territories and exploring sounds that can take people on a journey through their own emotions. For example "Rainmaker" has been described as "Pink Floydesque" and "Jade" as an example of how to make a guitar cry. "Patong Beach" probably gets closest to a traditional minor blues pattern but then the "double stop" bends are reminiscent of Roy Buchanan. And "Darkstar, " with it's drop D tuning has a lovely brooding vibe to it, which I have a great time superimposing funky, spiky riffs on top of. When I'm asked what to call this music I don't have a quick snappy response.....it's real...it's heartfelt.... it's different.

Regarding the title of the CD" it was inspired by the writings of Joseph Campbell the great teacher of Mythology. We are all, every one of us on a mythological journey ...the Quest or the Hero's Journey..... these archetypes lie deep within the spirit. When you listen to this music you will feel my journey.....it's my sincere hope that it inspires others on theirs."

James is originally from Montreal, where his father had been the first violinist in the Montreal Symphony. At five years of age he exhibited signs of interest in playing the guitar by taking his father's violin, flipping it over and plucking it like a six string. After a move to the west coast to Vancouver, he spent years in the A circuit playing and building a reputation that culminated with a blues rock quartet called "Small Mercies". This group,(which played Jame's compositions)was comprised of John Howard on vocals and bass, Frank Dato on drums and Dave Webb on Hammond organ and keyboards, won radio station CFOX 's yearly talent contest where they competed with hundreds of bands. From this they were chosen to play at actor Lou Gossett Jr.'s wrap party for the movie "The Inspectors", being filmed at the time. The songs "So Many Nights" and "Jade" also received substantial airplay from CFOX.

From there James made his way south where he played with many blues based artists throughout the Austin Texas area. It was also here that his "Mythology" project took shape. Here was where he built the computer based studio and developed the programming and engineering skills necessary to complete his vision.....an album of guitar instrumentals steeped in soulful, lyrical playing infused with a bit of techno, modern loops, grooves and ambiences.

reviews

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  • it's now that counts
    author: Gypsy

    The whole world should hear you now, just to know they are present at the same time you are.

  • World Class
    author: Jason

    There are not enough stars to give. I love your music, it sure is a work of art. Also the artwork on your cover is awesome, what a perfect way to describe how brilliant you are. Like one in a lifetime.......

  • Inspiring and Emotionally intelligent
    author: Steven

    It's rare to find albums that have such sweeping depth of virtuosity without sounding overly self indulgent. James has exhibited his expertise to the Blues world as a fine Italian wine would to a 7-11 wine cooler. This album simply rocks! I am truly impressed by the range and accuracy of his notes, especially how they touch emotional chords at all the right points. Only David Gilmore from Pink Floyd has moved me in such ways with his artful expression. This guitar based assembly of catchy, inspiring songs are crying for world exposure. James has a lot to offer here and I expect to see more albums from him to be at the top of my collection and playlists as he produces them. The only constructive Input I can offer is to say his album artwork does not do justice to the content. I am a graphics designer and would love to offer a "REDO" to bring the packaging of Mythology up to the bar that the music has created. Great Work James, Keep'em coming!

  • author: Rock City News(Los Angeles) by revin Kevin

    Starting the initial musical volley tonight was the James Grant Band. James and his band played a great set of trippy, trance rock in the style of older Pink Floyd. James is also a phenomenal guitarist with a bluesy feel and knows how to play notes for effect - not speed. It's not how many notes in a bar but how many of them grab you. Playing tracks off of his "Mythology" CD they seemed to lead into each other and made for a very warm feeling set. To find out more about the James Grant Band go visit him at www.jamesgrantguitar.com. To see these pictures and more in big color come visit me at www.revnkevin.com or drop me a line at info@revnkevin.com.

  • author: Robert Kinsler( The OC Register)

    James Grant "Mythology"(independent) - James Grant's latest CD, "Mythology," is filled with technically perfect guitar work in the spirit of the '80s and '90s efforts by Joe Satriani. However, to draw simple comparisons with that pioneering player's approach would not paint a complete picture. Grant has the soul of a bluesman, notably on "Rainmaker" and "Oasis," on which the guitarist's work recalls Gary Moore's fretwork on "Still Got the Blues." Irvine-based Grant plays with incredible skill, wrapping expressive solos in textured arrangements that blend elements of progressive rock, modern jazz and electric blues. You might like if you enjoy: Joe Satriani, Eric Johnson, Gary Moore

  • Brilliant; work of a GENIUS
    author: Corinne Jacobson

    This is the best guitar work and greatest CD I have heard. World class is an understatement!!!!!

  • author: The OC Dog Magazine

    Mythology is a brilliant work of art, This instrumental guitar album is the best I have ever heard. It's rare to hear a world class guitarist like James Grant.

  • author: Marilyn

    James Grant has certainly surpassed his previous works with this brillant CD. His work is outstanding and his guitar playing is beyond the greats. I would highly recommed his phenomenal music to any person who wants to be touched by such an extraordinary talent.

  • author: Darryl

    James Grant supercedes any of his previous works with this brilliant collaboration. He is a guitarist whose music touches your soul with his obvious talent. This CD highlights his ability to be considered one of the great guitar players of this century!

  • author: Debbie Shane/ musician

    All I can say is WOW!, James plays his guitar with such clarity and depth, it's like he knows how to make his guitar cry.I am so impressed.

  • author: Bob Cottingham/ROGERS Cable

    “James has an extraordinary ability... he is world class and unique...every now and then an industry is privileged to witness the rise of prominence of a truly influential talent. James Grant is just such an individual.

  • author: Bob Cottingham/ROGERS Cable

    “James has an extraordinary ability... he is world class and unique...every now and then an industry is privileged to witness the rise of prominence of a truly influential talent. James Grant is just such an individual.

  • author: Ellie O' Day/Pacific Coast Music Industr

    ‘His success is no fluke but rather the just rewards for a supremely talented musician’.

  • author: Kim White/Music Design

    ' I received the CD Mythology by James Grant. I have to say I have rarely heard a guitar player quite as talented as James. His guitar playing ability is amazing'.

  • author: Holger Petersen/Stoney Plain Record

    " James Grants raw talent is something I have seldom witnessed in my number of years in the industry, his work places him in the handful of Canada's most preeminent forces in music including Bryan Adams, Celine Dion, Sarah McLachlan, and few others.”

  • author: Steve Newton of the 'Georgia Straight'

    “This is one of the finest indie CD’s I have ever heard. it's really great......

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