Joe Deninzon: The Adventures Of Stratospheerius (2002)

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

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Published: November 1, 2002

Joe Deninzon: The Adventures Of Stratospheerius

Violinist Joe Deninzon boasts some impressive credentials! He’s performed with soul/pop icon Smokey Robinson, rock/pop diva Sheryl Crow, and others of note. This Russian born, Cleveland Ohio bred artist displays hearty doses of flair and dazzle throughout this somewhat asymmetrical outing. Featuring electric guitar maestro Alex Skolnick and a strong backing band, the violinist launches the proceedings with a snappy, jazz-fusion motif on the opening number, “What’s That Thang?” The musicians also explore balladry and funk-grooves in concert with Skolnick’s crunch chords and a few folksy movements. At times, notions of the Mahavishnu Orchestra emerge. A passable vocalist, Deninzon’s expressiveness provides a rock-crooner style edge to several tracks.

No doubt, Mr. Deninzon possesses monster chops, whereas many of these pieces feature tricky rhythmic maneuvers amid his electrifying violin passages. But, the overly compressed sonic qualities elicit a rather dated or perhaps antiquated sound. Otherwise, Deninzon possesses the compulsory goods to become a major force in the progressive rock and jazz-fusion arenas.

Joe Deninzon

Track Listing: 1.What

Personnel: Joe Deninzon: electric & acoustic violin, vocals, mandolin

Record Label: ZONE Entertainment
Style: Fusion/Progressive Rock