Buckethead Pike Reviews
A review of Pike 240 'Chart' by Buckethead, released December 2nd 2016
Good evening everybody, today we're back for another trip to Bucketheadland to take a look at Pike 240 'Chart'. So, let's begin. Woo!!
Released December 2nd 2016, Pike 240 was the 1st of 4 Pike albums released that month recorded after the completion of his 6 month North American tour.
The 3 track album kicks off with it's title track, the over 7.5 minute 'Chart'. The track leads with some excellent uptempo rock riffage. There's several shifts of direction throughout assuring it doesn't get too stale, although it probably does go a few minutes too long. It definitely could've done with a solo or two but doesn't have any. Still, its an enjoyable opener and well suited for background music whilst working out.
Track 2 is the 10 minute 'Granite Track'. A slow beat chill song, the shift of tone and direction from track 1 is welcomed. The signature background swells that have become a staple in this style of chill song from Buckethead are effective in setting the tone early on, and the progression is excellent, constantly building, never slowing itself down and ending on a feel good high. Great composition, great song.
The album concludes with it's longest track, the 10.5 minute 'Glowing Gate'. Like track 2 the shift of feel and direction are welcomed and perfect for the albums flow, with the track leaning more towards a darker undertone.
The backing and drums are fantastic throughout complementing and elevating the track, and the overall vibe, progression and atmosphere of the song is outstanding. This is Buckethead in his element. Highly creative and one that needs to be heard with headphones on to get the songs full effect. It's easily the albums best track. 5 stars.
Overall Pike 240 is an excellent enjoyable Pike from start to finish. Each song is different to the next and get better and grander as the album goes along. As much as Buckethead has earned a name and reputation for having breathtaking solos and powerhouse riffs, it's these longer compositions that rely on rhythm, melody, progression and atmosphere that really make Buckethead shine above the rest. With 'Glowing Gate' being the shining example. A master musician at work.
After adding up the rating I gave for each track, It came to an outstanding 81.5%, which I'd categorize as 5 star Awesome. Of course with it being a 3 track album it does bump up the rating, but this is still a 5 star listen. You can find my individual song ratings and break down on our website natternet.com
So, what's your rating for Pike 240?
To work out what percentage you'd give the album, rate each song out of 5 stars, add up your total and divide it by the total score possible, which for Pike 240 is 15. Then times it by 100.
Pike 240 'Chart' RATINGS (out of 5)
1 Chart ***¼ (3.25)
2. Granite Track **** (4)
3. Glowing Gate ***** (5)
Album Length 28:26
Total = 12.25 out of 15 (Album = 81.5%, Awesome)
1-20 % = Poor
20- 40 % = Below Average
40-60 % = Average
60-80 % = Good
80-100 % = Awesome!