Neil Zaza’s biography places him at the top of instrumental guitarists today. Although he shared stages with Steve Vai, Vinnie Moore, Yngwie Malmsteen and Dweezil Zappa, I must confess I never heard of him.

On the latest album “Staring At The Sun” Zaza is supported by some well-known companions as: Steve Smith and Ross Valory (Journey), Stu Hamm (Satriani), Michael Firkins and Robin DiMaggio. The album is overall pretty laid back with a clear and transparent production. The opening track “I Spy” is one of the heavier arrangements, but this is pretty much reduced by the use of trumpets and keyboards.

Zaza succeeds in letting his guitar take the role of vocals with lots of melody and serious attempts for emotion. The technical skills are surely shown, but mostly in addition to the songs. The other heavy track “New New Math” contains some remarkable structures and marvellous drum work of DiMaggio.

As a final song “Purple Rain” is covered as an instrumental version. I know Prince isn’t well known or appreciated, as a rock musician, but everyone who has seen the original live, will agree this can’t be beat.