As one of the leading guitarists on the “jamband” scene, Jimmy is widely respected.  For many years his fans were urging him to finally make the record that all of us knew he could make.  Through his time with Aquarium Rescue Unit, Project Z, Frogwings, The Allman Brothers Band and currently Widespread Panic his talents always seemed (just slightly) pushed to the side.

Until now.

“Lifeboat” is a perfect example of a modern day interpretation of classic guitar heavy fusion.  Not fusion in the sense of playing jazz licks with distortion, but a combination of varied influences and styles.  Joining Herring is his longtime musical partner Oteil Burbridge on bass.  The combination of Jimmy and Oteil really holds this record together. Along with Jeff Sipe, Kofi Burbridge and Derek Trucks there is no shortage of outstanding musicianship.

The opening track “Scapegoat Blues” is an uptempo blues in 6/4.  The melody is vibrant and has a hint of a Dixie Dregs/Steve Morse vibe to the phrasing.  Recently in Guitar World magazine, Jimmy did several lessons demonstrating the use of the diminished scale in this particular tune.

Another standout track on the album is “The Jungle Book Overture”. Yes, that Jungle Book.  It is an amazing feat for a musician to be able to take music from his or her childhood and still make it relevant today.  Not only does it speak to the quality of the composition, but also the talent of the musicians.

Overall this is one of my favorite albums of 2009 (even though it was released in 2008).  The tunes are so strong that you almost forget that this is an entirely instrumental album.

You can purchase “Lifeboat” from Abstract Logix.

Here is a great interview with Jimmy all about his new album: