Hugely underrated guitarist's finest work
Francis King | Calgary, AB, Canada | 07/15/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Montreal-born guitar meistro and singer Frank Marino never had it easy. The critics hated him then and hate him now, some goofy urban myths (the best being he took up the guitar after believing he was the reincarnation of Hendrix) spoiled his chances at being taken seriously, his recordings rarely sold well, and his label mishandled him.That said, World Anthem stands out as a testament to his songwriting, vocals, and extraordinary guitar playing. There are short, snappy numbers, longer drawn-out epics like Requiem For A Sinner (check out his synthesizer work, even now it doesn't sound dated) and an amazing jazz ballad called Look At Me. Sure, the title track seems ridiculously pretentious and naive, but it's still a fine instrumental composition. In fact, never before or since has Marino created an album with such a mature variety of material. Everybody from jazz freaks to metalheads can find something to love on World Anthem."
Timeless
stevek | MN USA | 12/29/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've been a Frank Marino fan since 1975, and I recently listened through this "album" again. I first heard this work on vinyl, and have enjoyed my cassette until it's almost unplayable. This work really shows F.M.'s musical range, and is a punctuation point in his struggle with a record label that didn't know what to do with him. Highlights include Requiem..., In My Ways, Look At Me (perfect smooth jazz), and Try For Freedom. As a teenager eagrely lapping up every note, this seemed longer back then, but could easily go to market TODAY and compete with the current "heroes" like Vai, Satriani, Johnson, Morse, and Petrucci. I'm still turning people "on" to this amazing guitarist, and will continue to do so until all my aquaintances know his music."
One of The best albums since the Hendrix Expereince
T. Wise | Austin, Texas USA | 04/21/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Frank Marino is one of the greatest artist alive this recording speaks for itself,and is one of if not the best out there,I am a loyal fan from years past and if you like marino by this album."
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1