Ty Oliver
Healed Through Time
By Lucky
(SugarBuzz Hollywood)
SugarBuzz Magazine
Photos By Brandon Vaccaro
Music has conveyed magic and mystical powers since time began. From the rhythmic pounding of Cro-Magnon man, to the renaissance halls of Vienna, to the hallowed walls of pubs and clubs worldwide, music has brought soul stirring and life changing affirmation to the masses. Throughout the centuries many among these gift giving individuals have been hailed as masters, truly geniuses in their own right. And now today I have the privilege of presenting the newest name to go on this time honored list. From Santa Cruz, California, Ty Oliver. Music once again conveys magic and mystical powers via this true virtuoso.
Healed through Time is an appropriate title to Ty’s debut CD, as it is full of healing and thought provoking music. Entirely instrumental in presentation, the tracks set sail on a journey of the mind and soul.
Crystal clear strumming chimes announce the arrival of “Lost in Thought”. Multi-tracked guitar layers provide rich texture running the gauntlet from sweet soaring sustain to crispy clean.
“Surrounded by Beauty” is a melodic masterpiece that transcends earth and space. Mediation enhanced, turn out the lights, fire up the candles, light the incense and cleanse.
Full steam ahead, “Driven” is upbeat and well, driving. Satriani comparisons are inevitable, but this is high praise and I would think, flattering. Oliver springboards and adds his unique flair to the fret board. Take off.
“So Softly” treads with poise and passion. Echo bouncing to and fro, harmonics ring true. Down in the mix is a catchy base riff that provides the canvas for the textured layers. Sweet.
“See the Light” trips fantastically through guitar tone heaven. Just guitars and bass provide an illusion of orchestral massiveness. The precision tapping technique cascades.
Whoa there, cutting the rock loose is “Race Day”. This baby churns full throttle thanks to some ass hauling help via drums and bass from Matt Sotelo. Ty’s guitar work really rips it wide open as the guys create a tune for the open road.
“All My Tears” is a melancholy foray accentuated by peaks of soulful serenity. Find a quiet place.
The signature sound that emanates from Ty’s guitar and rig are none the more prevalent than in the composition “Inside Your Heart”. After just a few listens, to this song as well as the CD, you begin to become familiar with what is Ty Oliver. Recognition ensues and then forever will.
Let “After Dark” take you to the hidden corners and deep recesses of your being. Edgy punch brings light to a somewhat scary scenario. Rich.
Just the man and his guitars, standing naked on the horizon, is how Ty ends the offering with “Strings from Heaven”. Bearing his soul, the gift giving is complete. Truly moving and beautiful. Thanks for the magic.