by Greg PratoFollowing in the footsteps of his first ever solo album, 1997's This Conversation Seems Like a Dream, Kip Winger's follow-up, 2000s Songs from the Ocean Floor, eschews his former band's penchant for rock riffs, and focuses more on Peter Gabriel-esque art pop tunes. And like its predecessor, Ocean Floor includes use of symphonic strings, as well as the appearance of special guests -- former Alice Cooper bandmate Ken Mary on drums, two ex-Winger mates (drummer Rod Morgenstein and guitarist Reb Beach), and ex-Danger Danger guitarist Andy Timmons. But the biggest surprise of all is Moon Zappa (no longer Moon Unit Zappa?), who duets with Winger on the new age-ish pop tune Sure Was a Wildflower. Elsewhere, the music of Landslide immediately bring to mind the aforementioned Peter Gabriel, while some unmistakable Middle Eastern sounds are featured on Free. Those who pegged the ol' Kipster as a one-trick pony from his Winger days are in for a surprise with his solo outings, especially after hearing Songs from the Ocean Floor.