CD REVIEW: PAINT THE SKIES BLUE FOREVER by Shadowplay Project (A Tribute To Rory Gallagher)

 PAINT THE SKIES BLUE FOREVER by Shadowplay Project (A Tribute To Rory Gallagher)
(Grooveyard Records)

Rory Gallagher was a wonderful artist that was taken from us much too soon. When He passed, we lost one of the greatest blues guitar players the world may ever experience. This tribute, 'Paint The Skies Blue Forever' by the Shadowplay Project, keeps the music and spirit of Rory Gallagher alive for those of us that are true fans. The mastermind behind the Shadowplay Project features the multi-talented Stavros Papadopoulos on guitar and vocals , who also co-produced with Joe Romagnola. The other fine musicians that make up The Shadowplay Project are Panagiotis Zabourlis on slide guitar and acoustic, Sakis Dovolis on guitar, John Christopoulos on bass and Chris Lagios and Nick Kalivas on drums. If you're a Rory Gallagher fan you are without a doubt will be blown away with what the Shadowplay Project serve up, however don't think this is a imitation of Rory's music. The Shadowplay Project put their own flavor on Rory's music and making the songs their own while doing Rory's music proud. The guitar interplay between Stavros Papadopoulos and Sakis Dovolis is a match made in heaven. Both do an amazing job. The guitar playing is powerful never putting in and extra note, but capable of vast expression all the same, as can be heard on smoking renditions of, "Moonchild", "Do You Read Me", a personal favorite Gallagher song, "Bad Penny", "I Fall Apart" and a killer take on, "Messin' With The Kid". The only bad thing about it is that once you hear it straight through once or twice you'll want to hear more wish it were a lot longer. Rory Gallagher made an outstanding contribution to blues and guitar and he will be sorely missed. In my opinion, this is one of the best tributes I have heard in quite awhile. You can feel the power and emotion pouring through every song. If you can listen to this without getting getting goosebumps, you might want to get yourself checked out. 'Paint The Skies Blue Forever' is a fitting tribute honoring Rory Gallagher as well a great introduction for someone interested in blues music, but unfamiliar with His work. Hands down, this is a must for any Rory Gallagher fan, or any blues fan. Big Kudos to Stavros Papadopoulos and the rest of the Shadowplay Project for truly an amazing job! -Tony @ The Dedicated Rocker Society