AMG Review of Prime Cuts

Greg Prato
All Music Guide

As with the other entries in the Magna Carta Prime Cuts series, the Steve Morse edition collects several standout recordings that the guitarist played on for the label. While this ten-track release (the last track being a video interview) should in no way, shape, or form be considered a Morse overview -- not a single track from his Dixie Dregs or Deep Purple eras is included (as well as nada from most of his solo recordings) -- Prime Cuts does serve as a kind of "unconventional taster" of Morse's playing. For example, you get a simply shredding rendition of Rush's never-ending instrumental "La Villa Strangiato," as well as some nifty acoustic guitar diddling on Yes' "The Clap." And while they may not be the best-known solo cuts from his career, tracks such as "Heightened Awareness" and "Busybodies" are indeed worthy showcases of Morse's vast guitar talents.