Approaching Translucence with Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser

Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser is the brainchild of the talented Canadian multi-instrumentalist, Art Griffin, who has recently released his third album, Approaching Translucence. This album seamlessly blends elements of modern jazz fusion and progressive rock, building on the success of his previous albums, The Seven Ages of Starlight and Visions From The Present. Approaching Translucence showcases Art’s expressive, dynamic, and diverse musical style, making it a must-listen for fans of instrumental prog rock with a jazz rock twist.

Art Griffin is a master of bass guitar, keyboards, and guitars, and on this album, he is joined by the exceptional Canadian guitar virtuoso, Kelly Kereliuk, and the classically trained violinist, Victoria Yeh. In addition to these talented musicians, Approaching Translucence features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Todd Sucherman from Styx and Marco Minneman from The Aristocrats on drums, as well as notable contributions from guitarists Randy McStine and keyboardists Derek Sherinian and Marco Luciani.

Victoria Yeh’s violin work on the album draws inspiration from the violin-led modern jazz of Jean-Luc Ponty, while Art’s keyboard arrangements pay homage to progressive rock legends like Yes, UK, and Genesis. The fusion of jazz, rock, and prog elements on Approaching Translucence evokes the spirit of iconic bands such as Dixie Dregs, creating a captivating and immersive listening experience for the audience.

Explaining the album’s title, Art reflects on the concept of translucence as a metaphor for the music’s inherent mystery and depth. He describes the album as a journey towards revealing more layers of musical intricacy and meaning, capturing the essence of the album’s enigmatic allure.

Each track on the album showcases Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser’s signature sound and musicality. From the Steve Hackett-inspired opening track, “In The Grand Scheme of Things,” to the energetic title track, “Approaching Translucence,” the album delivers a seamless blend of intricate instrumentation and melodic interplay. Tracks like “So Fine” and “Your Personal Panacea” highlight the band’s versatility and confidence in weaving together elements of jazz fusion and rock with precision and flair.

The album’s epic centerpiece, “Stormbringer,” immerses listeners in a musical journey that traverses classical motifs, intricate solos, and atmospheric textures. The track unfolds like a cinematic experience, with each instrument adding depth and emotion to the narrative, culminating in a grand finale that leaves a lasting impact.

Approaching Translucence culminates in a refreshing change of style with the dynamic tracks “Approaching Translucence 2” and “The Yin And The Yang.” These tracks showcase the band’s ability to blend contrasting styles and tempos into a cohesive musical tapestry, highlighting Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser’s creative vision and technical prowess.

The album concludes with the engaging two-part track, “Chordal Mover Parts 1 & 2,” which merges elements of electronica, pop, and trance to create a captivating finale. The track’s pulsating rhythms, ethereal synths, and expressive solos underscore the band’s ability to push musical boundaries and create a truly immersive listening experience for the audience.

In conclusion, Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser’s album, Approaching Translucence, is a masterful fusion of modern jazz fusion and progressive rock, showcasing the band’s exceptional musicianship and creative vision. With its dynamic compositions, expressive performances, and intricate arrangements, the album invites listeners on a mesmerizing journey of musical discovery and exploration.