BUMBLEFOOT

"... Returns" (Deko Music; 2025)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal is one of the most respected musicians in the world. Having performed with Guns N'Roses, Asia, Lita Ford, Sons of Apollo, Whom Gods Destroy and many more, Thal has proven himself to be a multi-faceted musician with some of the most unique talent on the planet.

".... Returns" is Bumblefoot's ninth solo album, and its chock full of mind-blowing instrumental music that will have your head spinning and your mind expanding. From the sci-fi sounds of "Simon in Space," to the electric country hoedown of "Moonshine Hootenanny" to the classical buzz of "Chopin Waltz Op64 No2", the melancholy blues of "Once In Forever," and others, "... Returns" will reach out, grab your attention and then hold onto it like Velcro hooks and loops.

And the appearance of guests like Steve Vai, Brian May, Guthrie Govan and Ben Karas only enhance the already brilliant compositions and recordings.

As I've said elsewhere on these pages, sometimes it's difficult to review instrumental albums. They have to be listened to differently because there are no lyrics telling the story. The music has to do that. But, as in the case of his Whom Gods Destroy bandmate Derek Sherinian, Bumblefoot's music makes it easy. "... Returns" is full, rich and complex and tells its stories clearly through the sound. It's not just the stunning musical performance that catches your ear here, but the composition, production and storytelling as well. It's an incredible listen and one that I highly, highly recommend.

For more information, check out https://bumblefoot.com.  

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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