When virtuosity meets vision, something extraordinary often emerges. Such is the case with Chicago’s Jason Blake, whose mastery of the Warr Guitar has consistently pushed the boundaries of instrumental music. Following his prolific streak and 2023’s acclaimed “Subsequent Ruins,” Blake returns with his eleventh solo venture, “A Confusion Sequence,” a collection that further cements his reputation as one of modern progressive music’s most innovative voices.
Recorded entirely on his Warr Artisan semi-hollow guitar, the album opens with “Awakening To Questions,” where Blake’s intricate tapping technique creates a mesmerizing dialogue with Marco Minnemann’s sophisticated drum-work. The interplay between these two virtuosos immediately establishes the album’s ambitious scope, weaving dark textures with contemplative passages that showcase the instrument’s remarkable versatility.
“Pretending To Breathe” unfolds like a progressive rock symphony compressed into eight and a half minutes. Blake’s ability to simultaneously handle bass lines and melodic passages on his 12-string instrument creates a full-bodied sound that could fool listeners into thinking they’re hearing a full band. The composition’s dynamic shifts demonstrate his masterful grasp of tension and release.
The lead single “Dormant Visions” stands as the album’s centerpiece, accompanied by a striking video created by Fumihito Sugawara. Here, Blake pushes his instrument to new territories, crafting experimental rhythms that dance around Minnemann’s versatile percussion. The track’s progressive nature never sacrifices accessibility, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers to Blake’s unique musical world.
“Memory Variations” showcases the album’s more contemplative side, with hypnotic high-toned riffing floating above thunderous drums. Blake’s stated goal of achieving a more acoustic feel is perhaps most evident here, as the natural resonance of his Warr Artisan adds warmth to even the most technically complex passages.
“Lucent Eyes” demonstrates Blake’s profound understanding of polyrhythmic structures, with layers of tapped melodies creating a dense musical tapestry. The interaction between guitar and drums reaches new heights, proving why Minnemann was the perfect choice for this project.
The album concludes with the epic “A Prophecy of Recollections,” a near ten-minute journey that encapsulates everything that makes this record special. The composition moves through various moods and intensities, from meditative passages to explosive bursts of energy, serving as a fitting finale to this remarkable collection.
Favorite tracks include “Dormant Visions” for its perfect balance of experimentation and accessibility, “Pretending To Breathe” for its emotional depth, and the closing epic “A Prophecy of Recollections” for its ambitious scope and flawless execution.
“A Confusion Sequence” stands as a masterclass in progressive instrumental music, showcasing Jason Blake’s continued evolution as a composer and performer. His unique approach to the Warr Guitar, combined with Marco Minnemann’s extraordinary drumming, creates a sonic landscape that’s both technically impressive and emotionally engaging. Released through Trey Gunn’s 7D Media label, this album further establishes Blake as a leading innovator in contemporary progressive music.
Final Rating: 9/10
Tracklist:
“Awakening To Questions”
“Pretending To Breathe”
“Dormant Visions”
“Memory Variations”
“Lucent Eyes”
“A Prophecy of Recollections”
Musicians:
- Jason Blake – Warr Artisan semi-hollow guitar
- Marco Minnemann – Drums (known for his work with The Aristocrats, Steven Wilson, Joe Satriani)
Production/Technical:
- Released through Trey Gunn’s (former King Crimson) record label, 7D Media
- Video for “Dormant Visions” created by Fumihito Sugawara @ Fumanstudios in Austin
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