Ronnie Montrose - The Speed of Sound

Riding the wave of his previous solo albums during the late '80s, Ronnie Montrose reached his peak with The Speed Of Sound. Not relying so much on drum machines and an overly polished wall of chorused sound, Montrose feels much more relaxed here than on previous outings during the comeback years, loosening up largely due to a rhythm section that is tight but not digitally rigid, particularly the drumming of former Mitch Ryder sideman Johnny Badanjek. The songwriting and arrangements are much more focused and breathe easier than on previous records, and Montrose's soloing and melodic phrasing are in top form. If there were a place for casual listeners to begin exploring Montrose's solo endeavors under his own name, The Speed Of Sound would be an ideal place to start. ~ Rob Theakston, All Music Guide