MACALPINE, TONY tony macalpine KICP1566
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Artist = MACALPINE, TONY
Title = tony macalpine
Label = KING/NEXUS
Catalog# = KICP1566
Barcode = 4988003405434
Release = JAPAN
Year = 2011
RPM =
Disc Size = 5"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
13trk,
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A Modern Virtuoso’s Statement: Tony MacAlpine’s Self-Titled Album (KICP 1566)
Today’s entry spotlights the 2011 self-titled studio album from the guitar and keyboard virtuoso, Tony MacAlpine. We are looking at the Japanese pressing released on the Nexus label (King Records) with the catalog number KICP 1566. This particular copy comes complete with its original obi strip.
Released on June 22, 2011, this album marked a significant return for MacAlpine, arriving roughly a decade after his previous solo effort, Chromaticity. By titling the album simply Tony MacAlpine, he signaled a definitive statement of his musical identity for the new millennium.
Moving beyond the pure neo-classical style of his 80s debut, this album showcases a heavier, more modern, and progressive sound. MacAlpine utilizes 7 and 8-string guitars to create deep, resonant riffs and complex textures, blending heavy metal intensity with jazz fusion sophistication. The album is instrumental, allowing his dual mastery of guitar and keyboards to take center stage.
The musicianship on this record is nothing short of spectacular. MacAlpine handles guitars, keyboards, and bass on most tracks, but the rhythm section is elevated by the presence of two of the world’s most technically proficient drummers: Virgil Donati and Marco Minnemann. Their complex and high-energy playing provides a perfect foundation for MacAlpine’s intricate compositions.
The tracklist features heavy hitters like Serpens Cauda and Pyrokinesis, balanced by moments of beauty such as the piano-led Flowers For Monday and the emotional closer The Dedication (based on a piece by Robert Schumann).
As is tradition with King Records releases, this Japanese edition offers exclusive value to collectors. It includes the bonus track Donostia, bringing the total track count to thirteen. KICP 1566 is an essential listen for fans of modern instrumental rock, capturing a legendary musician pushing his boundaries with a heavy, sophisticated, and technically dazzling album.