What happens when guitar prodigies grow up? The rest of the world catches up to them. This is not the case with Eric Gales. After being signed by Elektra records at the tender age of 15, completing two records as The Eric Gales Band, and a third 'Left Hand Brand' on House Of Blues Records and 'That's What I Am' on MCA in 2001. In 2006, Eric Gales returns with his latest masterpiece, 'CRYSTAL VISION'. The new recording finds Eric Gales redefining himself as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist with depth, intensity, and fresh ideas. It is amazingly shameful that Eric Gales has not been recognized or has not been mentioned as one of the greats. Without a doubt Eric Gales can do anything with the guitar, as I witnessed first hand live at The Troubadour in 2001 (one day before 9/11). No longer content to live in the shadow of Jimi Hendrix, but to continue his legacy of creativity. 'Crystal Vision' is a stylistic gumbo of modern influences and old school bluesy funk rock with spicy guitar for days. Serious guitar! Solos up the ying yang with gospel inflected vocals though out. As is evident on tracks like, "Are You My Friend?" and "I Got Me A Woman". The songs are strong, well written, well produced, and let's you know that Eric Gales has had some heavy experiences worth writing about, check out, "Freedom From My Demons" and you'll hear what I'm talking about. His guitar work has always been amazing and a must have for guitar fans. 'Crystal Vision' is a much more mature effort from Eric. I felt a lot of passion and heart went into the material on 'Crystal Vision'. A fine example why Eric Gales stands head and shoulders among other guitarists in his genre. That's just how it is.