Oliver - Remembrance

Oliver

​Remembrance
self-released; 2017

​3.6 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Oliver Cheung is a solo musician from Hong Kong who recently released Remembrance. It contains three songs which meld elements of metal, rock and post-rock. The songs are long form instrumental songs with the main attraction being the guitar work. I wouldn't say these songs have much an experimental edge to them. Cheung utilizes very little effects other than distortion and doesn't go off into areas that feel that unconventional.

Up first is “Remembrance” which slowly builds. The first two minutes focus on his exceptional guitar skills. A little after the two minute mark the song gets into metal and post-rock territory. I was impressed by his abilities on guitar and his ability to switch on a dime. The next significant change comes after the five minute which is serene and beautiful. It doesn't stay that way for long as the most intense peaks are still to come.

Up next is “Fragments” which is another roller coaster of a ride. Some of my favorite moments were the most serene and atmospheric but I also appreciate the math rock tendencies as well. Last up is what you might call the centerpiece “Last Hope”. His lead guitar skills shine here and felt the song had a number of interesting parts.

The production and recording quality is solid throughout. I thought Cheung did a good job with the guitar tone. The one thing I wanted was other musicians to support his guitar work. A bassist and real drummer could have made these songs a lot more dynamic. In my opinion there is still no plugin that can replicate a real drummer but Cheung made the most he could with the technology. Suffice it to say I think his music would thrive even more with more members. Additionally, There were time the songs did feel predictable. I wanted some more pleasant surprises

Overall, I was impressed by the technical and creative guitar skill that Cheung brought to the table. There is a of talent here and think he can build off that foundation.

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