The fifth volume in Nick’s Atomic Improv series now comes with not 3 improvisations but 5 different improvisations. The improvisations this time are shorter (they range between 23 seconds to 54 seconds long). However, do not underestimate any of these as they are full of notes (you get 25 pages of transcribed soloing goodness in both PDF & Guitar Pro format).
Improvisation #1 is a very note-filled with tons of legato lines, hybrid picked ideas in a waterfall of notes creating a beautiful textured improvisation. I think there’s a lot of cool ideas to dig into here especially for any guitarist looking for solo guitar intro and cadenza ideas.
Improvisation #2 features liquid smooth fretboard exploring ideas that go into more scalar runs that end with wicked pinched harmonic.
Improvisation #3 is legato speed madness, no holds barred goodness with a little bit of smooth sweep picking in the middle. This is quite an insane one.
Improvisation #4 goes into some diminished, blues, minor ideas (that’s what I could hear at least) and a really beautiful sequence of chords ending into a minor 6th chord.
Improvisation #5 is a nice palm muted legato exploration augmented with some tapping, chords ending on a beautiful open E major 7 (9) voicing.
In conclusion, this particular volume of Atomic Improv is one for players who dig building drama and tension in their solos. There are so many amazing lines that demonstrates Nick’s fluid technical facility across the entire guitar neck. As with all the other Atomic Improv volumes, there is A LOT of musical goodness to dig into. Strongly recommended.
Pros: Great musical ideas, tons of musical challenges.
Cons: This volume doesn’t include Improvisation Insights PDF to explain the solos.
TLDR: If you have any of the previous Atomic Improv volumes, this is worthy addition to your practice routine. Nick’s playing & musicality shines here.
You can get Atomic Improv Vol. 5 here: https://nickjohnstonmusic.com/atomic-improv
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