Paul Bibbins - Disenchantment at a Distance - REDUX

Paul Bibbins

Disenchantment at a Distance - REDUX
​self-released; 2024

3.9 out of 5

By Matt Jensen
​

Paul Bibbins, a guitarist and songwriter from Dallas, Texas, channels the restless energy of Jimi Hendrix in his latest release, Disenchantment at a Distance (REDUX). Paul wrote all nine tracks on the album, with four originally appearing on his Disenchantment at a Distance EP, released in September 2023. The full-length album, Disenchantment at a Distance – REDUX, expands on the foundation laid by the EP, serving as the culmination of that initial vision. With its high-octane guitar rock and unapologetically vintage vibe, the album nods heavily to its influences while carving out moments of individuality and spontaneity. 

The opener, “Bold, Beautiful…and Long Gone,” sets the tone with unmistakable Hendrix-inspired guitar phrasing. Bibbins doesn’t just mimic the sound; he leans into it, mirroring the iconic vocalist’s delivery with uncanny precision. The track feels like a love letter to the legend, brimming with soulful swagger. That being said Bibbins can let loose in a way that feels unpredictable which made me e 
“Up 25 High” takes a freer approach, blending Bibbins' intricate, fiery fretwork with a rhythmic foundation that flirts with the spontaneity of free jazz. The tight interplay between the guitar and drums anchors the song, balancing precision with fluidity. Similarly, the title track, “Disenchantment at a Distance (in need of a good song),” is another standout moment, where the guitar’s searing leads burn through the mix without losing the solid pulse provided by the drums. There’s a sense of improvisation where the notes flow like a stream of consciousness.

The blues-tinged “Wayward Son on the Blues” delivers a satisfying dose of grit, but it’s the frenetic energy of “Thrill Walk” that leaves a lasting impression making for one of the highest points on the album. Tracks like “Napoleons Wear the Big Hats!”, “Woman Across the Garden Wall,” and “Vista Valley Drift” keep the momentum going, offering variations on Bibbins’ formula without losing consistency in terms of songwriting or technique. Each song feels meticulously crafted, yet loose enough to let the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll breathe.

Closing the album is the evocative “As Love Rears Its Pretty Little Head,” a track that encapsulates Bibbins’ ability to fuse technical brilliance with raw emotion. It’s a fitting finale, cementing the album’s position as both homage and statement. 

While Bibbins' reverence for Hendrix is undeniable, his distinct personality shines through, proving he’s not merely a student of the style but an active contributor to its legacy. Disenchantment at a Distance (REDUX) is a celebration of the electric guitar’s boundless possibilities, drenched in nostalgia yet firmly rooted in Bibbins’ vision. There’s a lot to appreciate here and suggest listening from beginning to end. Fans of Hendrix—and of electrifying, unrestrained guitar rock—will find plenty to dig into here.

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