Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius – Behind the Curtain – Live at ProgStock (Melodic Revolution Records, 2023)
Electric violinist, composer, and vocalist Joe Deninzon, along with his band Stratospheerius, delivers a multiflavored and sensational fusion of high energy progressive rock, electrifying jazz fusion, and even elements of American roots music. The audio recordings and video were made at ProgStock (a major progressive rock festival in the northeastern United States), in 2019 and 2021.
The extensive collection spans two audio CDs and DVD/Blu-ray video, offering a retrospective of Joe Deninzon’s fifteen-year career. Throughout the two audio discs, Deninzon demonstrates that he is perhaps the finest electric violinist of his generation. Notably, he discharges scorching violin solos, performed at dizzying speed, along with various mesmerizing, innovative violin techniques. Indeed, it is a real treat for electric violin fans and progressive rock devotees as well.
The material on Behind the Curtain – Live at ProgStock includes well crafted songs composed by Deninzon along with engaging and surprising versions such as the King Crimson classic “Frame by Frame.” Deninzon says: “It’s fun to play Robert Fripp’s fast ostinato guitar part on violin.”
There is also a memorable tribute to Chick Corea and Spanish music in general on Deninzon’s cover of Chick Corea’s seminal composition “Spain.” This wonderful piece interweaves Spanish classical music composed by the iconic composer Joaquin Rodrigo with Spanish-inspired music composed by the late master of jazz-rock fusion, Chick Corea. In addition to Deninzon’s superb band, this performance of “Spain” features stellar and memorable guest appearances by the highly talented multi-instrumentalist Rachel Flowers and guitarist Alex Skolnick.
Although what stands out in Joe Deninzon’s music is his remarkable skill as a violinist, some of his songs have a socially conscious theme, speaking up against corrupt and hypocritical leaders and the race to self-destruction.
Musicians: Joe Deninzon on electric 7-string ”Viper” violin and lead vocals; Michelangelo Quirinale (Thrilldriver) on guitar, vocals; Paul Ranieri (Mark Wood, Riot Act) on bass, vocals; and Jason Gianni (The Ultimate Queen Celebration, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Rock of Ages, Neal Morse Band) on drums, vocals
Guests: Rachel Flowers on piano and flute; and Alex Skolnick on guitar.