Daryl Stuermer - 1988 "Steppin' Out"

 Terrific debut album by one of the most underrated guitarists in Rock. Was always a fan of Daryl after he joined Genesis & especially as Phil Collins' lead guitarist. This 1988 album, which is technically smooth jazz, is a crackerjack of an album & contains many melodic & pleasant tunes. It even has a instrumental version of "I don't wanna know" which Daryl co-wrote with Collins for his NJR album. Great song & one of my all time favs. The other tracks are great as well & won't disappoint if you're a fan of Smooth Jazz or Daryl's Genesis work.

Even though Daryl Stuermer had played with George Duke, Jean-Luc Ponty, Genesis, Phil Collins and others for many years, he did not release a solo album until 1988. The style is very much guitar fusion in the style of Larry Carlton and others. It is also a product of it's time in the sense that he does not play as much of the hard-core jazz-guitar as he did with Jean-Luc Ponty. But it does not feature the worst 80's excesses in the form of drum machines or brutal synths either. In fact, it is a very pleasant affair with good songs and nice arrangements. The guitar playing also combines excellent technique with lots of feeling in a very elegant way. Highly recommended if you are into this style of music!

Many do not know Daryl Sturmer other than his stint with Phil Collins & Genisis....... But, This Guy is the REAL DEAL as far as Guitarists! This is his First Solo Album. And, to me, Maybe? Maybe, His Best........ If your'e a guitarist or just love Great Guitarists - You Have to give this man a whirl! I've seen him live more times than I can count (before Collins - who Never allowed him to show his Real Talent). I remember him playing with his band - "Sweet Bottom" as a House Band in Milwaukee.......... Once you've heard Any of his albums - You'll want hem ALL!

Songs / Tracks Listing

1. Kyoto Rose (4:40)
2. I Don't Wanna Know (instrumental version) (4:39)
3. Anthem (5:45)
4. Venturing Out (5:23)
5. Electric City (5:12)
6. Night Flyer (6:07)
7. 20th Century Lady (4:44)
8. The Highlands (4:54)

Total Time 41:24
Line-up / Musicians

- Daryl Stuermer / guitar, bass (8), sequencer, drum machine, composer & arranger, co-producer

With:
- Brad Cole / synthesizer, arrangements
- Leland Sklar / bass
- Mark Torroll / percussion, drums
- Gary Barnacle / alto & tenor saxes (2)