D
avid Ashcraft writes in Expose Magazine about The Human Element, "Tony Spada has come up with an extremely strong solo disc that might just be the guitar album of the year. On The Human Element, Spada teams up with talented bassist Tony Castellano (who also adds keyboards to many of the 11 tracks) and drummer Rob Gottfried for a smoking set. The music is all instrumental and covers a variety of styles including progressive, fusion, and some kickass rock. Spada draws inspiration from Steve Morse, and the album’s only non-original is a cover of Morse’s tune, "Sleaze Factor". There are also echoes of Steve Hackett and Steve Howe in places, but Spada’s melodic sense differentiates his playing from his influences. He has a keen sense of pacing, and inserts two tasteful acoustic pieces to give listeners a chance to catch their breath between some blistering electric tunes. The return of Tony Spada is a very welcome event, and it serves to whet our appetites for the upcoming new disc and tour from the re-formed Holding Pattern."
Olov Andersson reviews: "The guitarist from Holding Pattern is back with his second solo album. The style is not at all the same as on the 1981 Holding Pattern album. This sounds more like Dixie Dregs or Steve Morse Band. Tony seems to be greatly influenced by Steve's guitar-playing. The CD also contains a cover of "Sleaze Factor" by Steve. Tony Spada has no problem playing this style and the album is filled with nice instrumental numbers in the melodic rock/fusion vein, with a few nods towards electronic country & western. If you haven't discovered any of his music yet, it's about time that you did. Let's hope for more nice albums, both from Holding Pattern and Tony Spada."
| Track Listing. |
|---|
| .MP3 sample links are flanked by … |
| … Iraqiroll … |
| Jack The Hat |
| Trick Shoes |
| … One For Two … |
| … Intruders … |
| Sleaze Factor |
| … Autumn Dance … |
| Mile High |
| … Surfin` UFO … |
| Clinically Proven |
| … Destination Home … |