ivan verrastro - sentience

Ivan Verrastro

Sentience
self-released; 2013

3.5 out of 5

By Ethan Skeleton

Sentience by Ivan Verrastro is truly a unique work. His blend of jazz-fusion and new age spirituality is destined to linger on the ears of any listener. Much respect is due to Verrastro considering he is the brain behind everything, from the guitars, the drums, keyboards, and arrangement. Based out of Birmingham, England, Verrastro is a rare artist overflowing with virtuosity. The cover of Sentience captures the overall atmosphere of the album with one man basking in the majesty of nature. The music of these songs has the power to transport the listener to a realm full of lush nature sprinkled with the sounds of joy and life. 

Sentience is a journey of body and soul and “Prologue” is the first step on this wondrous expedition. The serene and calming opening is an excellent mood setter that, like the rest of the album, will leave one feeling refreshed. Continuing the journey is the captivating “Once Upon a Dawn,” giving off positive vibes like the dawn of a new day just as life awakens. “Valleys of Freedom” is an energetic song, like the soundtrack to sleepwalking through a rain forest. while the peace and calm in “A Night in the Blue Forest” captures the relaxation that comes with a cool, dark night.

On"Natural Awakening" Verrastro creates a lush sound through his guitar that forms a ethereal landscape. The intricate technically ability throughout has you mesmerized as well as relaxed. His guitar playing rises above and beyond on this track.

"Memories Of The Future" is a nostalgic ride with an ample amount of guitar solos as well as an exuberant energy that we didn't hear on some of the earlier songs.

Ivan Verrastro is a true master of guitar. Every second is as important as the other. Sentience is clearly a labor of love and people who enjoy guitar virtuosos like Joe Satriani and  Yngwie Malmsteen found their new favorite artist. One will find it hard to walk away from without becoming a fan. 

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