ALAN MORSE – Four O’Clock And Hysteria

With his solo debut, Four O’Clock And Hysteria, Alan Morse (Spock’s Beard) gets to do what he likes the most: play the guitar!

The Music

And, play he does! With a remarkably rich tone, he puts his signature on each of the twelve instrumentals on this album. Penning and producing the album together with his brother, Neal, Alan has come up with music which is Funky, Bluesy, mellow, energetic, and most of all sincere. It is all quite different from Spock’s Beard, except for the organic sound throughout.

Four O’Clock And Hysteria is a feelgood album. It is a generous experience and easy to appreciate. Some may miss the more demanding Progressive approach, but at the same time it’s a pleasure to hear Alan Morse bring so much out of the guitar without ever compromising the musicality. Obvious highlights are “Cold Fusion,” “Return To Whatever,” “R Bluz,” “Dshungel Cruz,” “The Rite Of Left,” and the concluding “Home.”

The Band

Besides himself on guitars and brother Neal on keyboards and acoustic guitars, Alan Morse is accompanied by Scott Williamson (drums), Gary Lunn (bass), and Erik Darken (percussion). Listed as guests are none less than Nick D’Virgilio, Dave Meros, and Ryo Okumoto — all mates from Spock’s Beard. Visiting is also legendary violinist Jerry Goodman, who really brings on a battle between Alan and himself in “Return To Whatever.” Needless to say, all musicians perform flawlessly and with great understanding for Morse’s ideas.

The Verdict

Four O’Clock And Hysteria is instant pleasure as well as a good long-term companion. If you like the 1970s sound of Funk, Fusion, and Rock, then check it out. If you like Alan Morse, you didn’t need to read this…