Paul Gilbert is a guitarist that should need no introduction from his 1980's roots in Racer X, the multi-platinum days of Mr Big and subsequent solo offerings, Gilbert has a consistently high quality in his work and is with good reason one of the most respected players in the world. His sense of humour is also a breath of fresh air in today's musical climate of unwavering attitude and macho-ism, see his excellent website for proof.

"Silence Followed By A Deafening Roar" sees Gilbert take the instrumental tune route with the first three songs being a bridge to the riff-and-solo style of “Get Out of My Yard” (his previous and debut all instrumental offering) to new discoveries in melody writing that come in the songs that follow. “Silence”, “Eudaimonia Overture” and “The Rhino” certainly have melodic elements, but from “Norwegian Cowbell” until the end of the record, Paul uses pure melody more and more.

This is a more cohesive record than its predecessor for a number of reasons. Firstly Paul's range of styles is kept closer towards rock here, and whilst there is no denying he can probably excel in any style he wishes, Rock is what the man does best. Secondly the production is stronger and perhaps more importantly towards all guitarists reading this his tone is the best it has been. A change from Laney to Marshall amplification may have something to do with this and it no coincidence his tone is not quite a sharp/bright as it was before but now slightly darker, rounder and more balanced allowing the full glory of notes from his guitar to shine. But perhaps the improvement also comes from playing live on the back of "Get Out Of My Yard" on a extremely well received stint on Satriani's recent G3 guitarist wet dream tour which maybe gave Gilbert a better appreciation for what works in the live enviroment - and believe me this collection of tunes will work a treat.

Overall the melodies are stronger on this new album, the songs more memorable and overall if you like Paul Gilbert then this is essential listening and I would recommend this album as the best place to start anywhere in his extensive catalogue of work for newbies. UK readers be sure to catch Paul live in the UK supporting Joe Satriani throughout May 2008.