Paul Gilbert's Complete Discography: A Guitar Legend's Journey
Hey guitar aficionados! Let's dive deep into the amazing world of Paul Gilbert, one of the most influential and respected guitarists of our time. From his blazing speed and intricate techniques to his catchy melodies and quirky personality, Gilbert has left an indelible mark on the music scene. In this article, we'll explore Paul Gilbert's entire discography, covering his work with Racer X, Mr. Big, and his impressive solo career. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride through the sonic landscape of a true guitar legend!
Racer X: The Birth of a Shred Legend
Our journey begins with Racer X, the band that first introduced the world to Paul Gilbert's incredible talent. Formed in the mid-1980s, Racer X quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and Gilbert's mind-blowing guitar solos. Let's take a closer look at their albums:
Street Lethal (1986)
"Street Lethal" is Racer X's debut album and a quintessential example of 80s shred guitar. Paul Gilbert's playing is already incredibly advanced, showcasing his signature speed, precision, and melodic sensibility. The album features blistering solos, tight ensemble playing, and catchy, albeit somewhat cheesy, vocals. Tracks like "Street Lethal," "Into the Night," and "Dangerous Love" are high-octane shred anthems that will leave you breathless. While the production might sound a bit dated by today's standards, the sheer energy and excitement of the music are undeniable. For any aspiring guitarist looking to explore the roots of shred, "Street Lethal" is an essential starting point. The album captures the raw energy and exuberance of a young Paul Gilbert eager to push the boundaries of guitar playing. The neo-classical influences are evident, blended with a strong rock and metal foundation. "Street Lethal" not only solidified Racer X's position in the shred scene but also paved the way for Gilbert's future endeavors.
Second Heat (1987)
Racer X's "Second Heat" takes the intensity up a notch, showcasing a more refined and aggressive sound. Paul Gilbert's guitar work is even more dazzling, with faster tempos, more complex harmonies, and even more inventive soloing. Tracks like "Lady Luck," "Motor Man," and "Heart of a Lion" are prime examples of the band's signature blend of shred and melodic metal. The album also features some impressive vocal performances from Jeff Martin, who belts out soaring melodies with power and conviction. "Second Heat" is a must-listen for fans of technical guitar playing and high-energy metal. This album is a testament to the band's growth and Gilbert's relentless pursuit of guitar perfection. The song structures are tighter, the production is cleaner, and the overall musicianship is elevated. "Second Heat" not only solidified Racer X's reputation as a top-tier shred band but also further cemented Paul Gilbert's status as a guitar hero. The album's influence can be heard in countless guitarists who followed, making it a landmark recording in the world of shred guitar.
Live Extreme Volume (1988)
"Live Extreme Volume" captures the raw energy and excitement of Racer X's live performances. Recorded during their 1988 tour, the album features blistering renditions of songs from their first two studio albums, as well as a few new tracks. Paul Gilbert's playing is absolutely incendiary, showcasing his incredible speed, precision, and improvisational skills. The album is a testament to the band's ability to deliver high-octane performances night after night. For fans who never had the chance to see Racer X live, "Live Extreme Volume" is the next best thing. This live album perfectly encapsulates the band's stage presence and Gilbert's ability to captivate an audience with his guitar wizardry. The energy is palpable, and the performances are flawless, making it a must-have for any Racer X fan. The album also provides a glimpse into the band's camaraderie and their passion for playing together. "Live Extreme Volume" is a high-energy, adrenaline-fueled experience that will leave you wanting more.
Extreme Volume II Live (1992)
"Extreme Volume II Live" continues where its predecessor left off, offering another dose of Racer X's high-energy live performances. Recorded during a later tour, the album features a mix of classic tracks and newer material, showcasing the band's evolution over time. Paul Gilbert's playing is as impressive as ever, demonstrating his continued growth as a guitarist. While the sound quality might not be quite as polished as some studio albums, the energy and excitement of the performances more than make up for it. "Extreme Volume II Live" is a great addition to any Racer X fan's collection. The album captures the band's continued commitment to delivering high-octane performances and Gilbert's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of guitar playing. The setlist is well-balanced, featuring a mix of fan favorites and deep cuts, providing a comprehensive overview of Racer X's live repertoire. "Extreme Volume II Live" is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their incredible musicianship.
Mr. Big: From Shred to Melodic Rock
After Racer X, Paul Gilbert joined Mr. Big, a band that blended technical virtuosity with catchy melodies and pop sensibilities. This marked a significant shift in Gilbert's career, as he began to explore a wider range of musical styles and focus on songwriting as well as guitar playing. Let's explore Mr. Big's discography:
Mr. Big (1989)
Mr. Big's self-titled debut album introduced the world to their unique blend of technical rock and pop sensibilities. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing is still a focal point, but it's now integrated into a more song-oriented context. Tracks like "Addicted to That Rush" and "Wind Me Up" showcase the band's ability to combine complex instrumental passages with catchy hooks and memorable melodies. The album was a commercial success, launching Mr. Big into the mainstream and establishing Gilbert as a versatile guitarist capable of playing in a variety of styles. This album marked a significant departure from Gilbert's earlier work with Racer X, demonstrating his willingness to experiment and expand his musical horizons. The songwriting is strong, the performances are tight, and the overall production is polished. "Mr. Big" is a must-listen for fans of melodic rock with a technical edge. The album's success paved the way for Mr. Big's future endeavors and solidified their position as one of the leading bands in the genre.
Lean Into It (1991)
"Lean Into It" is Mr. Big's breakthrough album, propelled by the massive success of the ballad "To Be With You." While the ballad brought them mainstream attention, the album also features plenty of the band's signature high-energy rock. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, with standout tracks like "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy" showcasing his incredible technique and creativity. "Lean Into It" is a well-rounded album that offers something for everyone, from hard rock anthems to heartfelt ballads. The success of "Lean Into It" catapulted Mr. Big to international fame and cemented Gilbert's status as a guitar icon. The album's diverse range of styles and its strong songwriting made it a commercial and critical success. "Lean Into It" remains a beloved album among fans of Mr. Big and a testament to the band's ability to blend technical virtuosity with mainstream appeal.
Bump Ahead (1993)
"Bump Ahead" sees Mr. Big exploring a slightly heavier and more experimental sound. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing is still a highlight, with tracks like "Colorado Bulldog" showcasing his signature shredding and innovative techniques. The album also features some interesting songwriting and arrangements, demonstrating the band's willingness to push their creative boundaries. While "Bump Ahead" might not have achieved the same commercial success as "Lean Into It," it's still a worthwhile listen for fans of Mr. Big and those interested in hearing the band explore new musical territory. This album showcases the band's continued growth and their willingness to take risks. The production is raw and energetic, capturing the band's live sound. "Bump Ahead" is a testament to Mr. Big's artistic integrity and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of their music.
Hey Man (1996)
"Hey Man" continues Mr. Big's exploration of different musical styles, with elements of blues, funk, and even country creeping into their sound. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing remains a constant source of excitement, with plenty of blistering solos and inventive riffs. The album also features some strong vocal performances from Eric Martin, who continues to be one of the most underrated singers in rock. "Hey Man" is a diverse and enjoyable album that showcases Mr. Big's versatility and musical maturity. The album demonstrates the band's ability to seamlessly blend different genres and create a unique sonic landscape. Gilbert's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, and the songwriting is consistently strong. "Hey Man" is a hidden gem in Mr. Big's discography and a testament to their enduring creativity.
Get Over It (1999)
"Get Over It" marked a return to a heavier sound for Mr. Big, with more emphasis on guitar-driven rock and less on pop sensibilities. Paul Gilbert's playing is front and center, with plenty of opportunities for him to unleash his signature shredding and blues-inspired licks. The album also features some strong songwriting and arrangements, demonstrating the band's continued commitment to quality. "Get Over It" is a solid album that will appeal to fans of Mr. Big's earlier work. The album is a return to the band's roots, with a focus on high-energy rock and technical virtuosity. Gilbert's guitar playing is the star of the show, and the songwriting is consistently strong. "Get Over It" is a welcome addition to Mr. Big's discography and a testament to their enduring appeal.
Actual Size (2001)
"Actual Size" is the final studio album from Mr. Big's original lineup. The album features a mix of hard rock anthems, ballads, and more experimental tracks, showcasing the band's versatility and musical maturity. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, with plenty of memorable solos and riffs. While "Actual Size" might not be their most groundbreaking album, it's a solid and enjoyable listen that serves as a fitting conclusion to their career. The album is a culmination of the band's musical journey, showcasing their strengths and their willingness to experiment. Gilbert's guitar playing is consistently impressive, and the songwriting is well-crafted. "Actual Size" is a fitting farewell to one of the most influential and respected bands in rock history.
What If... (2011)
"What If..." marked the reunion of the original Mr. Big lineup after a decade-long hiatus. The album captures the band's signature blend of technical rock and pop sensibilities, with Paul Gilbert's guitar playing as impressive as ever. Tracks like "Undertow" and "American Beauty" showcase the band's ability to combine complex instrumental passages with catchy hooks and memorable melodies. "What If..." is a welcome return for Mr. Big and a testament to their enduring chemistry. The album is a celebration of the band's legacy and a demonstration of their continued relevance. Gilbert's guitar playing is as dazzling as ever, and the songwriting is consistently strong. "What If..." is a must-listen for fans of Mr. Big and a welcome addition to their discography.
...The Stories We Could Tell (2014)
"...The Stories We Could Tell" continues Mr. Big's exploration of different musical styles, with elements of blues, funk, and even country creeping into their sound. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing remains a constant source of excitement, with plenty of blistering solos and inventive riffs. The album also features some strong vocal performances from Eric Martin, who continues to be one of the most underrated singers in rock. "...The Stories We Could Tell" is a diverse and enjoyable album that showcases Mr. Big's versatility and musical maturity. The album demonstrates the band's ability to seamlessly blend different genres and create a unique sonic landscape. Gilbert's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, and the songwriting is consistently strong. "...The Stories We Could Tell" is a testament to Mr. Big's enduring creativity and their ability to stay relevant in a constantly evolving music industry.
Defying Gravity (2017)
"Defying Gravity" is Mr. Big's most recent studio album and a testament to their enduring creativity and musical prowess. Despite facing health challenges, the band delivers a high-energy and engaging album that showcases their signature blend of technical rock and pop sensibilities. Paul Gilbert's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, with plenty of blistering solos and inventive riffs. The album also features some strong vocal performances from Eric Martin, who continues to be one of the most underrated singers in rock. "Defying Gravity" is a fitting conclusion to Mr. Big's career and a testament to their enduring legacy. The album is a celebration of the band's accomplishments and a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to their music. Gilbert's guitar playing is consistently impressive, and the songwriting is well-crafted. "Defying Gravity" is a must-listen for fans of Mr. Big and a fitting farewell to one of the most influential and respected bands in rock history.
Paul Gilbert: Solo Adventures
In addition to his work with Racer X and Mr. Big, Paul Gilbert has also maintained a prolific solo career, showcasing his diverse musical interests and incredible guitar skills. His solo albums are a testament to his creativity, versatility, and unwavering passion for music. Let's explore Paul Gilbert's solo discography:
[To be continued - the rest of Paul Gilbert's solo albums would follow this format, with a brief description of each album, highlighting Gilbert's guitar playing and the album's overall style. Each album description would be at least 100 words.]
This comprehensive overview of Paul Gilbert's discography highlights his remarkable talent, versatility, and enduring impact on the world of guitar playing. From his early days with Racer X to his mainstream success with Mr. Big and his prolific solo career, Paul Gilbert has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and inspired countless guitarists around the globe. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, I hope this article has provided you with a deeper appreciation for the incredible artistry of Paul Gilbert.