Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants, the third full-length release by Tribe of Gypsies (also released in Europe as Tribe of Gypsies III) is the most restrained, song-oriented effort by the Los Angeles-based Latin hard rock outfit. Bandleader/producer/guitarist Roy Z sounds more like Mark Knopfler than the shred version of Carlos Santana that appeared on the band's earlier recordings. Z still lets loose with some scary solos (check out "Puro Party"), but the musician takes a notable sonic back seat on Standing on the Shoulders of Giants, letting his rhythm section and second-time vocalist Gregory Analla drive this 2000 release. Analla's increased presence on more traditionally arranged rock numbers like "The Flower" and "What Cha Want" proves that he has the style and talent necessary to carry a straight-up pop/rock tune, that is, if the vocalist's limited role on the mercurial Revolucion 13 caused any fans to question his ability. The least jam-oriented Tribe of Gypsies release, Standing on the Shoulders of Giants is a confident record from one of the '90s most dynamic and underappreciated rock bands.