Album review [Show preview]: Marcus Rezak returns with Truth in Sound EP

Given the worldwide pandemic, the stoppage of live music in 2020 and a collective wariness we haven’t seen since the last world war, it seems more than appropriate to celebrate the impending release of Denver-based, jam guitarist, Marcus Rezak‘s solo EP, Truth in Sound which releases on all digital platforms April 29 with distribution by Color Red.

Rezak will be in Austin with his band, Shred is Dead this weekend to perform at Reason 2 Rhyme’s An Epic Music Adventure, music festival at Kenny Dorham’s Backyard in East Austin. The high-energy fest also features the hip-hop stylings of the immensely entertaining, Riders Against the Storm. New Latin project, El Combo Obscuro with members of Grupo Fantasma, El Tule and Del Toro makes an early public appearance. Geto Gala and Luis Montilla are also on the bill. Music begins at 8 p.m. Friday and continues all weekend. Rezak will perform on Saturday and Sunday.

You may remember Rezak from his solo debut, Gateway to the Galaxy that dropped in April of 2018. Like any dedicated artist, after a year lay-off, the talented guitarist is at it again with this sizzling EP which features drummer Russ Lawton, bassist Tony Markellis, and keyboardist Ray Paczkowski of Trey Anastasio Band alongside world percussion and tabla player Kalyan Pathak. This group of musicians clearly clicked as evidenced in the video for the track “Light of the Moon.” The song displays Rezak’s full power on guitar as the Berkelee College of Music-trained guitarist shreds not one but two solos. Lawton and Paczkowski are clearly enjoying the jam. The expressionless posture of Markellis on bass belies the intensity at which the group are performing. The juxtaposition is a bit humorous as we marvel at their muscianship:

In addition to the “Light of the Moon” release, Rezak has launched a Kickstarter campaign to support the record. Perks range from downloads and pre-orders of vinyl and CDs and delve into curated experiences, guitar lessons, regional listening parties, private concerts and more. Learn more about the project here.

The rest of the EP is a joy to listen to. We’re partial to the shred-tastic track, “Glitter Pillow.” The song begins with Paczkowski banging away at the organ while Rezak begins playing his axe with gusto that almost immediately expands into an intricate jam with Lawton measuring out the beat with the precision of a drum machine on steroids. The instrumental tune highlights Rezak’s dexterity and imagination while the band chugs away at breakneck speed. It’s an exhilarating listen that encapsulates the artist’s skill perfectly.

All photos by Tara Gracer

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