Steve Morse Band Split Decision Magna Carta By David Chiu

The one-time Dixie Dregs leader is back fronting his namesake band on this latest fusion showcase. Morse's virtuosic guitar on this and previous albums explains why he has been voted "Best Overall Guitarist" in Guitar Player magazine for five consecutive years. His solos are mesmerizing as they are compact and dazzling: the straight-ahead "Mechanical Frenzy," the fury of "Marching Orders," the ornate "Natural Flow," and the textured "Great Mountain Spirits." While not everyone will appreciate guitar fronted instrumental albums just for that reason, it is hard not to be impressed with Morse's amazing talent. The music here is tight and rhythmic, as it is freeform and driving.