Sound Proof cover

Sound Proof

Greg Howe · 2008

56 min · 14 tracks · instrumental rock

Intricate guitar work intertwines with dynamic rhythms, creating a masterclass in instrumental rock that captivates and challenges listeners.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Emergency Exit — This track features complex time signatures and intricate melodies that highlight Howe's virtuosic guitar skills while maintaining an accessible groove.
  • →
    Tell Me Something Good — The song showcases a blend of catchy hooks and elaborate solos, demonstrating Howe’s ability to merge technicality with melody in a compelling way.
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    Child's Play — With its playful themes and engaging structure, this track highlights Howe’s unique approach to storytelling through instrumental music.
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    Sound Proof — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its layered textures and emotive playing, making it a standout conclusion to an intricate project.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album showcases sophisticated compositions and intricate musicianship typical of the instrumental rock genre.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate dynamic shifts in tempo and rhythm, creating a sense of movement and unpredictability.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic rhythms that engage attention
  • intricate guitar work for detail-oriented
  • captivating instrumental exploration sessions
  • moments of reflective solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • preference for vocal-driven music
  • seeking instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Sound Proof' was released in 2008, Greg Howe had already established himself as a prominent figure in the instrumental rock scene with several acclaimed albums to his name. This album marked a return after his previous work, showcasing his continued evolution as a guitarist and composer while exploring new creative directions. It also reflects Howe's maturation as an artist who blends technical prowess with emotional depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Joe Satriani· Steve Vai· Paul Gilbert

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Intro 0:13
  • 2 Emergency Exit 7:31
  • 3 Tell Me Something Good 5:37
  • 4 Connoisseur, Part 1 0:29
  • 5 Reunion 5:52
  • 6 Morning View 4:36
  • 7 Walkie Talkie 6:14
  • 8 Rehearsal Note 0:17
  • 9 Side Note 7:13
  • 10 Sunset in El Paso 4:15
  • 11 Write Me a Song 0:30
  • 12 Child's Play 4:26
  • 13 Sound Proof 6:41
  • 14 Connoisseur, Part 2 2:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata