J.D. Bradshaw
"Essence Of Existence"
(2002 Acacia Entertainment) 

Returning to the pages of BallBuster is this Virginia guitarist with his sophomore EP effort of...again, 4 songs! Ughh! This guy knows how to leave us hanging! It's been quite a long time since the last installment from J.D. but I do understand the concept of $$$ and studio time to make a CD to begin with; works somewhat like a printed zine only more expensive but same principles of advertising and the whole 9 yards. All originals on this offering and no vocals! I think J.D. wanted it that way besides people may have mentioned leaving the vocals out as well but he is a good singer, his playing is more of the focus however. Production is a little bit better since last time but still lacks that "loud and clean" sound I'm used to. As far as the songs go? Just splendid! The first 2 tracks right off the bat, "Firecracker" an "Over The Top", are powerful and energetic "cruising" songs for open highways....jam sessions if you will! Lots of twists and turns with great riffs and solos throughout. "Patchouli" shows off some Spanish/flamenco and picking, somewhat Santana style and is a quick ditty a bit over 2 minutes with the clincher, "Yamaya", ending it all as it began, energetic and efficient rock/metal with consistent soloing without the "bazillion" notes in one short measure. The title is right on the head for those who exist for the essence of guitar music; bow to thy six string! www.geocities.com/acacia_entertainment/index.html or email: sixstringfever@yahoo.com

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