Austrian-born, Sweden-based virtuoso guitarist Simon Ostini’s debut solo album, Witches, is a thrilling ride through the world of instrumental rock, blending ferocious guitar work with sophisticated classical influences. The album showcases Simon’s technical prowess, which is underpinned by his extensive background in hard rock, classical music, and organ sounds.
From the opening track, “Euphoria”, it’s clear that Simon’s playing is a force to be reckoned with. The album’s seven tracks provide a display of his diverse range, effortlessly transitioning between blistering shred and intricate, melodic passages. Each composition is a feast for guitar aficionados, with harmonized guitar lines, soaring solos, and impressive legato techniques. Yet, despite the technical complexity, Witches never feels like a mere showcase of skill; it is imbued with emotional depth and atmosphere, thanks to the thoughtful incorporation of synths, strings, and organ tones.
Tracks like “Bloody Nails” and “Rats in the Gutter” serve up riffs and shredding, while “Jade Lantern” offers a more introspective and bluesy feel. The latter demonstrates Simon’s ability to dial back the intensity in favour of mood and emotional nuance. The title track, “Witches”, stands out with its dark and brooding energy, underpinned by dramatic chord progressions that give the piece a cinematic quality.
Drawing inspiration from glam metal greats like Dokken and Slaughter, as well as guitar legends such as Buckethead and Jason Becker, Witches is a blend of progressive rock and virtuosic guitar-driven compositions. For fans of instrumental music and shredding guitar, Simon Ostini’s debut is a captivating offering.
