The Undiscovered: Terry Syrek

New York-based guitarist Terry Syrek submitted his 6 song demo tape, containing four progressive instrumental forays and two vocal numbers. Syrek is incredibly gifted, displaying prodigious talent on the guitar as each piece contains assaultive, speedy fretwork and heavy, imaginative rhythm work. Syrek also goes beyond mere pentatonic scales as he tends toward the exotic in his solo and lead work. Syrek borrows flavorings from Indian, Moroccan, Arabic and other cultures to express himself on tracks such as "Shiva", "Mine To Leave Behind", and the furiously paced "Grimpett Widdleshins". The planned, full-length CD featuring Syrek on guitar should be worth waiting for.

Terry has been interested in the guitar since the age of four, but began taking lessons when he turned twelve, inspired by Randy Rhodes' playing on "Blizzard Of Oz". Later, Terry became influenced by classical and progressive music, and started playing in bands and teaching private lessons. He then attended Berklee College of Music in 1988 and began teaching at the National Guitar Summer Workshop in 1990, where he is still a faculty member. In 1993, Terry moved to the music Mecca, New York City, to further his career. He has since appeared in magazines such as Guitar Player and Guitar and has entered the New York studio scene as a session guitarist.

Syrek is currently with the band Mindwalk, a three-piece progressive outfit in which he is the vocalist and guitarist. The group is working on their first CD. Syrek is also playing guitar on the new season of the TV series, "Highlander".

Terry Syrek
60 Davis Avenue
>White Plains, NY 10605
United States