What makes Untold Passion by Neal Schon notable?

Untold Passion is significant for its blend of hard rock and blues, contributing to the growing trend of guitar-driven solo projects in the early '80s. The album received positive reviews, particularly for its musicianship, aiding in establishing Schon as a formidable artist beyond his work with Journey. Released in January 1981, Untold Passion marks Neal Schon's first solo album after gaining fame as the lead guitarist of Journey. This record came during a period when he sought to explore his musical identity outside the band’s mainstream success, demonstrating his versatility and desire for creative expression.

Who is Untold Passion for?

Untold Passion works well if you're into virtuosic guitar showcases throughout, soulful melodies for relaxation and catchy tunes for road trips.

How many songs are on Untold Passion?

Untold Passion has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Untold Passion

Neal Schon · 1981

41 min · 9 tracks · blues

A fusion of blues-infused rock and soulful melodies that showcases Schon’s virtuosic guitar work throughout.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wasting Time — The opening track sets the tone with its driving rhythm and showcases Schon's ability to merge rock with emotional depth through his guitar phrasing.
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Hooked On Love — This track features catchy hooks and a vibrant energy that highlights Schon's songwriting capabilities alongside his guitar prowess.
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Untold Passion — The title track is a sprawling epic that encapsulates the album's themes of longing and introspection, showcasing Schon's intricate guitar solos and emotive playing.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

virtuosic guitar showcases throughout
soulful melodies for relaxation
catchy tunes for road trips
uplifting energy for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1981, Untold Passion marks Neal Schon's first solo album after gaining fame as the lead guitarist of Journey. This record came during a period when he sought to explore his musical identity outside the band’s mainstream success, demonstrating his versatility and desire for creative expression.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Satriani· Steve Vai· Gary Moore

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

I'm Talking To You

The bridge shifts perspective as the singer directly addresses their feelings, revealing vulnerability amidst an otherwise confident demeanor.

Tracklist

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

1 Wasting Time 3:46
2 I'm Talking To You 4:54
3 The Ride 4:41
4 I'm Down 4:08
5 Arc 3:58
6 It's Alright 4:43
7 Hooked On Love 3:06
8 On The Beach 5:29
9 Untold Passion 7:01

What to play next

Listen next

Here to Stay

1982

Full Neal Schon discography Artists like Neal Schon

blues hard rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata