CD Review: Jim Allchin “Overclocked”

Blue Barry – smoky mtn. blues society

Nov. 7^th, 2011

Well I’m checking out a new CD by Jim Allchin named “Overclocked.” Overclocked is a computer term that means modifying your computer so it runs faster, and could eventually overheat, shutdown, or burn up. Guess we would all like to see that. With degrees in Computer Science from Stanford, and Georgia Tech, and a stint with Microsoft, Jim decided to needed to play more guitar. So how do we get from there to here? Well, Jimi Hendrix, the Allman Brothers, and some Lynyrd Skynrd. Rock and blues took the place of corporate stress and we win.

Jim opens up with a scratchy boogie type shuffle from days gone by, but then screams it past what a lot of us haven’t heard yet. “Overclocked,” is the opening cut and it just cooks. His guitar work is fabulous. I mean all the licks, scales, chops, skills, he’s got the tools, and tastefully applies them to his new trade. He also lays some great slide in there as well as his blistering lead work. There are lots of good cuts on here. I will talk about my favorites. “One For The Money,” with Keely Whitney on vocals is very nice. My favorite cut, other than wishing I could play “Overclocked,” is “Fall.” This is an instrumental ballad with keyboards and is just on the money. I have played it 6 or 7 times in a row and it helps improve the quality of the day. After the hot blistering stuff, this is a quick and tasty changeup that catches you by surprise. Jim can play fast, slow, jazz, ballads, blues, slide, he is something else. The closing cut “Opening My Eyes to Love,” is another favorite. It’s great to hear these new guys out there tearing it up and with feeling, and with class.

I have played this CD for several friends and received mixed reviews. Pretty much guitar players loved it, and listeners were not as enthusiastic. Not judging anybody here. Non-players are great friends, and appreciators of good music, but guitar players understand the mechanics. Jim knocked me out. Maybe because although I love to listen, I play too, but whatever. I hope you will give this CD a try and see what you think. Great tone, sound, rhythm, skill, a fine band with him. Enjoy, and one love, blue barry