He is well sought after for not only his guitar playing but also for his songwriting --- something that is on display in his newest record Rockonica. The songs are all supremely well-constructed, with a prevailing earnestness. They flow from beginning to end and you get the feeling that making music for Gabrels is as easy as me falling off a chair (of course that's only occasionally and at the end of an evening! For me that is.). As well Gabrels handles all vocals, as well as the occasional piano, harmonica and percussion.

The first cut "Sign of God" starts off the record on a real high note. The guitar sound is impressive --- beefy and visceral, aided by just a touch of fuzz. He shows off his chops in "Underneath" along with some good lines --- "Are you getting' tired or are you just bored? Loyal to the general but rotten to the core. Not what I thought I'd find underneath."

The bulky (10:30!!) "Anywhere (she is)" has some tasty guitar lines --- warm and syrupy. Especially towards the end of the song, it sounds like it has been taken over by a mix of Robin Trower and Bill Nelson (Be-Bop Deluxe).

The tempo is cranked up for the fast and furious "Continue" that sounds like there's some Bowie influence to me (or maybe it's his influence on Bowie I hear!). The instrumental "13th Hour" is a gorgeous guitar tapestry that is like an early morning walk through the woods (ooops bartender, where's my Guinness?). I mean it's very easy on the ears.