Album title: Earth Voyage
Performer: Joseph Sullinger (guitar)
Label: Soundship Music
Playing time: 38'10"
Recorded: Gatomanco Studio – Mexico 2011


I've been invited for just the second time to explore the New Age music genre. This time I had opportunity to discover guitarist Joseph Sullinger who currently lives in Mexico. Joseph worked as a sideman for many years mostly in classical and rock music. In 2007 he decided to go his own way as both composer and instrumentalist. The first two outings were Popular Classical Guitar released by Eroica Classical Recordings in 2008; and Classical Guitar Christmas Favorites of 2010.

Earth Voyage represents his third and last solo outing. Joseph was obviously influenced by both classical and rock and his music seems to share Latin roots with Carlos Santana, Al di Meola and Ottmar Liebert amongst others. For this session Joseph composed some Mexican-flavoured numbers which combine classical, Latin and nuevo flamenco styles. It is not however an exercise in easy-going trivialities. This eclectic world music journey manages to remain involving always. The ethereal sounds are fully consonant with the musical genre even if at times one might have preferred a closer miking of the solo guitar. There was obvious intent to maintain a relaxed atmosphere and keep flamenco wildness under control. The overall mood is indeed rather melancholy and peaceful. All along these 10 tracks Joseph Sullinger demonstrates his interesting song writing abilities, his high artistic sensibility and expanded cultural background. Earth Voyage represents elegant and flawless guitar work that gives priority to easy listening with light overtones of various Latin influences.