John Frusciante Empyrean (180g Vinyl 2LP) * * *

After releasing six solo full-lengths and an EP in 2004 alone, John Frusciante took his time recording the 10-song concept album The Empyrean which wasn't issued until 2009. Featuring collaborations with Josh Klinghoffer and Flea and guest spots from Johnny Marr, The New Dimension Singers and the Sonus Quartet, The Empyrean is awash in lush and beautiful melodies throughout and includes some of the most assured singing of Frusciante's career.

"(The Empyrean) was recorded on and off between December 2006 and March 2008," John noted. "It is a concept record which tells a single story both musically and lyrically. The story takes place within one person, and there are two characters. It contains a version of Tim Buckley's, 'Song To The Siren' and the rest of the songs are written by me. My friend Josh plays on it, as does Flea. It also features Sonus Quartet, Johnny Marr and The New Dimension Singers. I'm really happy with it and I've listened to it a lot for the psychedelic experience it provides. It should be played as loud as possible and it is suited to dark living rooms late at night."

Although Frusciante is best known for his three stints as the integral guitarist in the Red Hot Chili Peppers, he also has an active solo career, having released a dozen albums under his own name. His diverse solo recordings include elements ranging from experimental rock and ambient music to new wave and electronica.

180g vinyl 2LP reissue recut by John Frusciante and Bernie Grundman from the original analog tapes.