Music centered around the electric guitar achieved tremendous success in the 20th Century. Its very best artists, almost without exception, were able to integrate unusual sounds and textures into their songs. They dared to bring styles such as jazz, American country, or folklore music from places as diverse as North Africa or India onto pop hits.
One type of music that has been strangely absent has been classical. This is bizarre and unfair, especially considering that the term itself is meant to represent the evolution of music itself over centuries.
George Crotty is one of the modern musicians concerned not just with preserving the legacy of sophisticated classical. Crotty also wants to show modern listeners why they ought to give it a chance and treat in the same way that they’d treat a radio hit.
The fact that the “Inner Nature” EP is co-produced by Bob Ezrin is significant. Not only is the collaboration a stamp of approval, but it also creates well-needed context. Ezrin, after all, was behind the desk when mixing some of the best lead guitar playing in all of rock music. Solos by David Gilmour, Ace Frehley or Dick Wagner & Steve Hunter were the natural descendants of classical music in the rock arena.
Consider the aforementioned fact when visiting George Crotty’s recordings. Particular focus has been given to the expressiveness of the lead melodies. Replace the sophisticated nature of the musical construction, and you’re not far removed from the beauty of classic rock ballads.
“Hidden Within” is a beautiful autumnal composition where Crotty tames his 5-string violoncello piccolo to play only what is strictly necessary and guaranteed to create an emotional reaction in the audience.
The same principles are used further in “Inner Nature,” where the percussion elements create a bridge between Baroque music and modern folk-rock creations.
Finally, with “The Fog,” Crotty is content to sketch out a landscape, fill it with loneliness, and, using his poignant playing, let the listener create whatever stories might belong to this place.
Ultimately, what George Crotty manages to show in “Inner Nature” is what classical music is not. It does not have to be boring, involve overly technical playing, or remain a concern of the past. At its best, it can be short, punchy, and memorable, just like the kind of guitar solo that Bob Ezrin has been known to record.
Bandcamp
Spotify
