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PAST FEATURED ARTISTS |
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Visit the Chris Allen Official Website. |
Guitarist Chris Allen is a repeat offender, having been the featured
artist a couple of years ago with the release of his first CD "Trouble
On The Horizon". Here he is again on the most wanted list, this time with the release of his CD "Rock Machine". Chris is a (very) hard rock, shred influenced guitarist from the Boston area who's life changed after hearing the Van Halen CD, Woman and Children First. Yea, that'll change you alright, Eddie was king of the airwaves then! A crown left vacant with both Eddie and Joe Satch missing from the radio lately. And I think I know just the guy to fill the vacancy. Chris has a solid radio accessible style that would appeal to the listeners of popular rock radio. And with a harder edge that would be at home on the cutting edge Metal/Hard Rock stations. Chris describes his style as "a unique blend of Rock, Funk, Metal and Blues." And describes his music as "InstruMENTAL Power Rock. A title certified by his newest CD, Rock Machine. A CD that takes rock guitar to it's edge and toys with pushing it over. With a real love for the extremists like George Lynch, Randy Rhoads, Yngwie Malmsteen, Zakk Wylde and the classic rock players as far back as the 60's, Chris has a style that's pure rock and at the same time it's pure metal. Dancing that hairline crack between party, commercial (I hate that word) rock and hard core metal. This combination keeps even the harder moments, and there's lots of 'em on the new release, from getting overbearing. For those of you who like it overbearing turn it up real loud because the rhythm section that Chris also supplies will leave you bruised and beaten my friend. Or Chris may come to your house and finish the job himself (did you see his pic above?). Chris' newest CD, "Rock Machine" puts him among the aforementioned players. A hard rock CD with a mission....obliteration! A big part of that obliteration is the rhythm section that Chris supplies. (he played the bass and programed the drums. ) This is a powerful hard rock CD that just blind sides you with aggression. One minute you're in the midst of a nice friendly rocker then without even realizing it your surrounded by a relentless attack from all sides. This CD begs to be cranked up to 11....with the windows open to eliminate any chance of shattered glass. With tight and at times intricate tunes combined with a new way over the top lethal shred attack, Chris has no intention of taking a back seat to anyone. He's bullying his way to the front of the line and taking on the big guys. So check out one of my hometown heroes. And a threat to anyone who holds a guitar! On his new CD "Rock Machine" you'll be asking yourself...musician or maniac? Man! You have to love this!
Read the review of Chris' Rock Machine
CD.
===
Both CD's are available at Chris Allen's Website === So, what's everybody saying?
"Doing all the instrumentation himself, Allen is able to set up an
environment geared towards extended solo juggernauts, designed to exploit
his uncanny dexterity, and his willingness to let it all hang out over bombastic
grooves." |
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Guitarist Michael Knight is a dynamic Metal/Heavy Rock player from
New York, with a penchant for horror and the dead. He conjures up a wickedly
dark atmosphere with shred attacks that go from punishing to life threatening.
I first heard Michael on Guitar 2001 Magazines "Lick This" compilation. Michael
was the founder, writer and editor of Guitar 2001 Magazine (1996-2001). After
hearing Michael's track "Arctic Sun" I remember thinking that this guy is
dangerous! Most recently Michael appeared on the Fret-Essential Compilation
CD #1 from Quintessence Metal Webzine. A CD that was just recently reviewed
here in May. I had this to say about Michael's track...."It has a very wicked
and dark mood, with some certified nowhere to hide evil shred....Twisted
Indeed".
=== So, what's everybody saying?
"a very haunting and effective concept which is rarely heard of from
an instrumental standpoint; worth your curiosity." |
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Guitarist Ken Steiger is an absolutely monstrous shred guitarist
from the Los Angeles area. Originally influenced in the 80's by the heavier
bands of the day, Ozzy, Priest, Maiden, AC/DC and Kiss. From this Ken adopted
a very heavy style, and dark presence. Ultimately leading to the Neo-Classical
stylings of Yngwie, MacAlpine and Randy Rhoads. And the virtuoso rock playing
of Satriani, Vai and Eddie Van Halen. In 1991 Ken enrolled in G.I.T. and graduated with honors in 1992. Then in 1997 he was hired to teach at M.I. (Musicians Institute - G.I.T.), where he teaches the Metal - Live Playing Workshop. Ken also recently wrote the curriculum for the new Metal Guitar Elective, where students get college credits learning to play bands like Slayer, Pantera, Ozzy, Metallica, Megadeth and so on. In 2000 Ken was the guitar coach to Mark Wahlberg, Tim Olyphant and Dominic West for the movie "Rock Star". Ken's band the "Steiger Project" won "The 2003 All Access Magazine Music Awards"- Best Instrumental Band. And Music Connection Magazine's - 12th Annual hot 100 Unsigned Artists. The Steiger Project has opened for such luminaries as George Lynch, Dick dale, Pat Travers, Rob Balducci. Talk about putting the cart before the donkey......These guys, with the exception of George Lynch, should be opening for Ken Steiger. I think a no survivor duel between Ken and George Lynch would conjure up the devil himself. Ken is a melody driven, but by no means mellow, heavy rock shred guitarist. Ken's songs and playing are bold and dangerous. And if turned up to the right volume can be physically punishing. Ken is a way (I mean waaaaay) over the top shred monster with a huuuge almost frightening presence. Even his stage presence is HUGE! Check out the spikes on his guitar in the above photo. And the size of this guys arms? Are you gonna tell him he's not a monster? This guy is set on guitar dominance at any cost. Leaving all that challenge him wasted by the side of the road. Ken describes his style of music as "Instra-Metal" music. A phrase he coined, and a genre he dominates. The two things I feel sets Ken Steiger apart from the rest is #1 Beauty & grace, even at his most brutal, there's an underlying beauty that rivals that of Mr. Malmsteen, two truely beautiful players. Ken's sense of melody is what makes the beating that you'll receive somehow very pleasant. #2 Is the aggression factor, the relentless, forceful, brutal, life threatening, flesh melting attack of a madman! Ken is an aggressive guitarist with a merciless assault that can only be described as brutal. Ken's shred can reach inhuman at times. But it's not just this players speed that makes him sound so powerful. It's the extreme aggression that Ken plays with. Together they create a huge presence that commands your attention. Ken's new CD "Project Steiger - Defiance" is a giant leap forward for heavy rock guitar music. Incorporating all that is rock, the good and evil, rock/metal/thrash/progressive/ neo-classical influences, and of course shred delivered with assassin like precision for a calculated deadly blow. It contains no love songs, no ballads and no bullsh*t of any kind. It does contain the very finest in heeaaavy rock/metal shred guitar music. This heavy metal beast is everywhere, all around you, taking up all your oxygen making it hard to breath.....This is the overall tone of the "Defiance" CD. Allowing only moments for you to get your breath, just to save you for the inevitable kill later on. For more on the new CD and this great player, read my Review and listen to samples of Ken's "DEFIANCE"CD.
Ken has several other releases. But right now the new "Defiance"
CD is the only one available. I sure hope he's planning to re-release
some of the earlier CD's, because man I need more Steiger!! "Defiance"
is a hell of a place to start listening to Ken Steiger. The master of the
testosterone driven, the bigger, the badder, the better, get a bigger
hammer, leave no witnesses, bad attitude fueled music known as "Instra-Metal"
guitar music.All of the CD's are available at his site
www.projectsteiger.com
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Eric Loy is an innovative guitarist, from Ohio. He's one
third of the eclectic jazz trio "The Hipperoos", a band that he formed in
1990 with Scott Reed and Tim Shoemaker, two friends he's been playing with
for over 25 years. So you know when these guys get to improvising they're
tight, and with a pocket you could climb into. Eric's playing with The Hipperoos
has a sharp rock edge, while remaining true blue to the Jazz format.
His solos balance perfectly between Jazz traditionalist and avante adventurer,
with a little rock rebellion. There's also a great sense of fun in Eric's
playing, making me just smile out of nowhere sometimes. This guy's having
a blast and it carries over to the listener. Eric is also an acoustic fingerstyle solo performer, going almost a full 180º from the plugged in mad jazz of the Hipperoos. While still keeping the free feeling of his Jazz stylings, his acoustic material is much more disciplined. And when he's performing on his Harp Guitar (see it) complex is a given. Eric's acoustic playing shows a whole different side of this incredible musician. His playing includes influences from Classical to Jazz to New Age and Country. While his electric Jazz playing is free, feeling almost precarious, his acoustic playing, and Harp Guitar specifically is much more disciplined without being constrictive. You get the feeling of freedom and fun, but the whole time you can't help but take this musician seriously. And acknowledge his virtuosity and unique creativity. I say that "an original artist is one that you can't describe by comparing to someone else". I honestly don't know anyone that sounds like this. Eric Loy is a true original! Eric has an aggressive even percussive style when playing acoustic. A heavy picker who adds a percussive texture by banging on the guitar, using even the body itself as an instrument. Eric's acoustic compositions can be furious and fun to spiritual, even inspiring. He'll take you from a foot stomping bluegrass picker to a jaw dropping aural vista, meticulously detailed, and executed with the skills of a master. Eric has opened for such luminaries as Leo Kottke, Preston Reed, Adrian Legg, Jorma Kaukonen and others. He has 3 releases with The Extemporaneous Hipperoos, as well as 5 solo releases including a Christmas CD. All of the CD's are available at his site www.ericloy.com I recently reviewed of his Catapult CD. He features his newly commissioned Harp Guitar throughout this CD. He also plays the piano, banjo and electric guitar on the CD. So be sure to Check Out My Review of Eric Loy's newest CD "CATAPULT".
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Peggy Welty is a widely diverse, passionate guitarist from the Ohio
area. Peggy loves and plays all styles of music on her new CD. It features
her playing Bach, Duke Ellington, Hoagy Carmichael and even 2 songs by a
couple of rocks biggest. She plays the beautiful Randy Rhodes (Ozzy) song
"Dee". And a song she learned on a bet, "The Rain Song" by Jimmy Page (Led
Zeppelin). After hearing her play The Rain Song, you know someone learned
their lesson!
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The new featured artist is Lori Linstruth. My first
female featured artist. (and second featured artist to be from Sweden but
not be Swedish) A skilled and seasoned metal player of the
melodic breed, with a neo-classical influence. Which you might expect since
her influences include Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker and Yngwie. Not
sounding like a neo-clone, the one thing Lori did bring away from these
influences is the deep rooted melody. And the beautiful way in which the
melody is executed (technique). Lori started playing after hearing Michael Schenker's "into the arena" (yeah, that'll do it) as a teenager. And by the 80's she had recorded a 4 track demo and was featured in Mike Varney's infamous "Spotlight" column in Guitar Player magazine. Lori then formed the all female melodic metal band "Warbride". (there are some Warbride clips on Lori's site) A killer metal band that somehow missed it's day in the sun. Coming close, but disbanding after 4 years ('87-'90). Then in '91 she moved to Sweden to play with founding members of Ice Age. (boy, talk about will you relocate?) Then after only a few months that project called it quits. Lori stayed in Sweden but, here's the near tragic part. She got so disillusioned that she gave up music and yes, playing for 10 years. Ohh! Nooooooo!! But alas, the power of music......Lori recently (a year ago) returned to music, and to recording. She has a demo CD coming out the beginning of 2004. It should include new solo material as well as songs with Warbride. That's right Lori's reforming the band. Lori's planning a mostly instrumental CD, with a special guest vocalist on a track if that person can be gotten. I've checked out all the music on her site. Lori's new CD will be a gotta have for any fan of melodic metal. (which I happen to be) I was blown away by this articulate metal player. Classically influenced metal without all the cliche phrases. She sounds fearfully heavy but wistfully light at the same time. It's that beautifully aggressive thing I mention occasionally. (a perfect example of this style would be steve vai's "for the love of god". At its most aggressive point that song could demolish buildings. But there isn't one nano second of that song that isn't heart wrenching beautiful enough to bring a tear to your eye.) But , back to Lori...... When I first went to Lori's site I checked out one of the samples, and I thought "yea that was pretty good, I'll check out one more". But the next song (camel breath) had a whole different vibe. So, naturally I had to check out one more......well, after the third song I knew I was staying to check out the rest. (and a few video clips too) I feel a need to say "Lori I Love Your Vibrato"! With just the bending and shaking of a string she can bring you to a frenzy. Or reach down into your soul and play with your heart strings. I was really impressed with her songs (writing) too. Mostly with a wicked foreboding vibe, all the while you can sense the salvation beneath. And the wide variety of songs is a testament to this fantastic guitarists writing skills. And here's the key (for me anyway) she does it B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L-L-Y!!
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I reviewed David's CD "SCI-FI-GUITAR" back in August. It was then
that I decided that David deserved front page coverage. So here he is
"Octobers Featured Artist"....
David White is a shred/rock guitarist from the West Virginia
area with a different influence. He fuses rock and metal with
techno/ravesque dance beats. Yes I've heard funk, dance and hip hop
mixed with rock. But David is the first I've heard add the hypnotic
rave beats. There's rap-metal, nu-metal.....I christen this new sound
"White-Metal". David plays progressive rock without getting all artsy. There's
plenty of progressive guitarists out there. Unfortunately most are progressing
in the same direction. David literally just cut his own path through the
musical woods. (* personal note- listening to the CD again while writing this column I found two things. ONE- the music and the songs were as fresh and hot as ever. It all felt like new ground, so I'm sure this is 100% original. No one sounds like this. TWO- My God! This man isn't among the masters. He is the Master! This CD possess's every quality that I love in a CD. If I built my dream CD.......THIS IS IT! it's got shred, it's got mainstream rock, it's got a truly original style, it's got variety from song to song to keep it fresh and interesting (you don't have to hit shuffle), it's got soul and emotion, it's got songs like Final Frontier, Sci-Fi-Guitar and Oblivion that are practically works of art, and the biggest thing...It's got melody! Man, you can hum these songs after you hear the CD. I got two of these stuck in my head for a week, one then the other.) === check out these quotes: "Sci Fi Guitar" features ten heavy guitar musical landscapes full of depth and power." "David covers a wide range of tone, textures, and styles in his playing." "David brings to the table the influences of today, thus creating not only a new page in the book, but a new book entirely." "David is a real player whose talents, technique, and aesthetics stretch across broad boundaries of musical styles with maturity and grace."
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Andy is an English guitarist, now living in Sweden. Andy's on
round two of his career. Reaching somewhat significant heights earlier
(1990) with the Progressive Metal Band Venturer. Attracting the attention
of a major label before splitting up. Andy tried again (1992) with the Melodic
Rock Band Rendevous. But he wasn't happy with the direction the band was
going in. So he left the band to work on his own. By now he was gaining a
lot of attention as a teacher and session player. In time Andy became disillusioned with the music scene. And this gifted player all but put away his guitar for 8 years, working as a successful computer graphics artist. WHOOOAAA!!! But alas an old friend from school helped rekindle the love for guitar that laid dormant for so long. (all hail Andy's friend!! hurraay!!!) Since then, Andy has won the Guitarwar Professional Championship 3 times against international competition. He is also featured on the Guitarwars Best Of 2002 CD. He performed the song "Cry Havoc" under the alias "Paladin" for those of you who have the CD. I believe the CD is still available. And all proceeds go to Jason Becker. So if you'd like to hear the very best shredders from around the world (like who doesn't?) pick up this CD. Now, back to Andy.....This is a truely gifted player. A beautiful and very melodic technician! Allowing him to play ferocious leads that stimulate, but some how calm you at the same time. A beautifully aggressive style!! Oh Yea, he rips too! His songs go from soothing melodic shred to over the edge shred attacks. The whole time keeping his keen sense of melody. He should call his new CD Andy's Magic Lamp...because while listening every time I made a wish it came true. (read on you'll get it) When I first heard about Andy I went to his site looking for a prospective featured artist. It was just my state of mind at the time, but I was hoping... no make that wishing for someone who could burn up the fretboard. Because there are so many shredders out there. But so few "Over The Top" guitarists. Andy was over the top...way over. But he had the one thing most extreme players lack...control. No not technical control.....But the control to not blaze constantly just because you can. Andy's unquestionably a shred monster who becomes a shred maniac on tracks like "Brazen Horse" & "Full Metal Tuxedo". (I hope you're wearing yours because these tracks will leave you bruised.) After the shear velocity of "Tuxedo" I was wishing for a slower more expressive song. One that of course had its share of shred psychosis (remember the mood I was in). But also highlighted Andy's slower tasteful phrasing. As if by magic the next song I heard was "Hour Glass". Check out "Hour Glass" in it's entirety @ Andy's Site. It must be heard!!! A song that both stimulates and relaxes. With a beauty and melody I thought only young Yngwie Malmsteen capable of. A strong passive/aggressive shred tune. A nice song with a hint of neo-classical. With plenty of certified insane shred!! Having Yngwie on my mind from the previous tune I wished that I could hear Andy rip a little classical shred. Poof! The next track I heard was "Toccata . A minute and a half classical shred piece. Oh! Yea! That's what I'm talking about! Too bad my wishes ran out. Because my fourth wish would be to hear more music by this masterful player. I guess I'll have to wait with everybody else.
=== ====== check out Andy's site for much more.
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A masterful Jazz/Blues guitarist. And a kick
ass Rock guitarist. That's right I said Rock... There aren't any Rock songs.
But yes there's Rock guitar. He's primarily a Jazz/Blues player with a unique
knack for combining both. Definitely one of the best fusion stylists I've
heard to date.With many other fusion players, there's a definite solid line
between styles. But very few have succeeded in creating one seamless indefinable
style. Scott Lerner is one that has. Shifting effortlessly between influences.
Sometimes within a single phrase. Giving the phrase a whole new meaning.
And the music a new feel. And the songs where he throws Rock into the mix. It's an aural experience I'm not sure I've had. As I stated above, his unique ability to travel un-noticed between styles is perfect!! Adding rock to the mix puts it over the top. I mean I'll be sitting back digging some nice jazz piece. And he jumps into some rock style riffing. It's like what was that? You just don't see Scott coming. Keeping even the predictable....un-predictable. Scott is quite possibly the "Best Unknown Guitarist". A title once bestowed on the late great Roy Buchanan. The title has recently been vacated. (r.i.p. Roy) Well, I nominate Scott for vacancy! And after hearing his music, you'll second the motion....... Scotts unique style is a result of totally immersing himself into the style he loves. From the early classics like Zeppelin, Cream, Stones and Hendrix. (check out the tune krustavia) Then onto the progressive bands of the day like Yes, Rush and UK. Logically he jumped to Holdsworth, Steely Dan and The Dixie Dregs. (check out midifunktion) (i see a pattern forming) Ultimately leading to Jazz. And how!!!!! There's no question on Scott's Jazzmanship (i just made that word up) OK all joking aside. Scott's skills as a Jazz player are those of a seasoned pro. His songs play like a who's who of styles. His playing and technique are immaculate. I don't remember the last Jazz player to excite me this much. But I'll certainly remember Scott. His songs go from clean smooth jazz (check out turnaround) to frantic no where to hide (check out nuclear sex monkey) rock influenced. And everything that's jazz in between.
OK now that you've read the article. And hopefully checked
out a couple of the sounds. Here's the clincher. This fantastic artist doesn't
have anything for sale right now. But being the smart guy that he is. He
building a fan base by letting you download his music for free. So go check
out his site for a lot more info and music. Drop him an e-mail to let him
know what you think. And by all means, if you dig what you hear spread
the word. Help prove that we don't need the big corporates!
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David Henderson is the first blues/jazz/rock
artist to be featured. Not by intention, it just happened that way....But
when I first heard David's music my first thought was "Featured Artist". Then I became more familiar with his music. And my second thought was "Master". This guy is that good! I'm telling you, I was tempted to buy a bus ticket to Colorado just to see him live. Compositions, soul/emotion, technique, voice, chops(of course) and something I can't put my finger on....David has it all. David's from Colorado. He grew up in Philly, New Jersey, New York, Boston and Rhode Island. None of these are exactly blues capitals. Still, when listening to him. Your thoughts go from the Delta to Chicago to Texas. David shows he's a lover and master of many different styles. Including acoustic country blues, delta style slide to rockin' electric blues to smoldering hot jazz. It was his blues that made me first take notice. But David's a great rock guitarist too. And anything in between. Playing both instrumental and vocal tunes. He also handles the vocals himself. With a warm soulful voice that somewhere between the jazzy stylings ala Robben Ford and the heartfelt desperate croonings ala Lowell George. We almost lost David 17 yrs ago. No not the Big Gig in the Sky. But he did hang up his guitar and join the corporate world. But alas, the power of music. He's back...(nothing like big business to give a man the blues). I can only assume that this hiatis or pressure of big business is what fuels David's fire. Because he's downright molten. I didn't hear him before...But I hear him now! Each and every note! Oh man..... So check out David's music @ his site. He's got a lot of music to check out. Featuring live, studio, solo and songs with the Henderson Bros. Band. He has a new CD out too. So be sure to check that out. After hearing his music. You'll agree, you've gotta have it......... _
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The Featured Artist this month comes to us courtesy
of Chris. Who also wrote this article. Chris is unquestionably the biggest
fan and collector of (as he puts it) "Electric Instrumental
Rock/Fusion/Progressive/Metal and Melodic Guitar Driven Music". And having
a collection that would make most music stores envious. He's heard everything
from 'round the world. Qualifiing him as an expert. It's an honor to have
him contribute. Thanks Man! This months featured artist is:
" Dallas, Texas' Michael Harris. Who has 4 solo cd's, 3
cd's with his former metal band called Arch Rival. And 1 cd with his former
thrash/metal band entitled Surgeon. check out these quotes: "There are very few guitarists alive today who can go note for note with this musical genius". "You may never listen to instrumental guitar the same again". "Harris is an absolute monster of a guitarist!". "Not only is Michael the most spectacularly gifted player I have ever heard, he can write an instrumental that sounds like a song rather than an exercise."
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Greg is an amazing guitarist/writer/arranger
from New York. He is primarily a seven string player. This not only gives
Greg more musical freedom and possibilities. But it gives him a very fat
sound. It also helps in creating the, at times deep dark atmosphere of the
music. A very strong fusion presence here. No hints of styles. Just real Jazz, Funk and Shred. Greg's music goes from tranquil, calming jazz to downright frightening shred attacks. All executed with the skills of a veteran. With 25 yrs. of playing and 4 CD's ( the last 2 instrumental) it's no surprise. The surprise was the masterful production and arrangements on "WYRD" his newest release. With the compositions having as much importance as the playing. Greg started playing 4 years before Ozzy's first solo record. Think of all the incredible music this guy has experienced. This must be what feeds his creative fire. Although on his new disc "WYRD" I think his creative fire has gone nuclear. It's a little less mainstream than his previous releases. And he takes more chances creatively. In the words of the Immortal Frank Zappa: "Without deviation from the norm, 'Progress' is not possible". Using this as a rule I would have to say: This is the future of progressive rock. Kind of Progressive, Progressive Fusion. Greg's "WYRD" CD is a musical journey that makes no attempt to be radio friendly. But somehow is still very listener accessible. Full of twists and turns and style changes at the drop of a dime. This CD is one of the few that moves me in all 3 crucial areas (my own criteria). Aural - I dug what I heard (this is almost a given). Mental - The CD more than rocked me. It took me on an mental journey. Sometimes taking the rocky path. Sometimes the smooth path. If I close my eyes and listen, I can almost see a story. And last: Physical - This CD is so full of hip shakin', booty banging, I just gotta move something funk. (the most primal ingredient). "Music heard can be forgotten. But Music felt can never be lost". check out these quotes: "wyrd (2001), the fourth release from New York guitarist Greg Rapaport, provides an exciting glimpse at a world where metal, funk and some other as-yet-unnamed musical mutation live in a kind of bizarre and wholesomely unsettling harmony" "Greg Rapaport is yet another hybridized guitarist/multi-instrumentalist that is writing music that sets him far apart from the many guitar hero types out there" "Greg has no problems taking jazzy chord progressions and soloing over them with ferocious, no-holds-barred metal/shred licks" "If you are into passionate music, funky jazz / fusion, progressive metal or all of it I would advice you to give this young man a chance" "Clearly a dynamic player/composer. An articulate groove oriented Jazz player with a very smooth technique. A hard rocker of the intense breed. And solos with assassin like precision".
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Chris is a rock/metal guitarist from Boston,
Ma. The same state that brought us the great rock guitarists Joe Perry and
Brad Whitford. And the "Supersonic Shred Machine", Joe Stump. Well, it looks like Boston has done it again. Chris is both an incredible rock guitarist. And a great shred guitarist. Creating memorable songs that incorporate both styles. (as well as a few asst. influences thrown in here and there). His first solo release "Trouble On The Horizon" is a 6 song ep. That showcases both his writing and his playing. A very aggressive player who can make his guitar cry for mercy one minute. And the next play some peaceful calming song that makes you forget about everything. And then just when you feel safe, he sneeks up behind you and BAM! And everything gets crazy again. Yea! it's kinda like that....... Chris is a shred madman too. Having studied under the great Joe Stump, you would assume no less. But Chris isn't a stump knockoff. His sound and style is all his own. Like Joe too, Chris has the arsenal to mount an endless attack. But instead he chooses to let the songs breath. Making the shred attacks that much more aggressive/deadly. Many of Chris' songs border 'Radio Friendly". Making them appealing to the average music listener. But there's also a very deep rooted metal influence in his music. Making him appeal to the die hard fans as well. And of course there's plenty of shred for the extreme guitar fans. check out these quotes: "Chris Allen has showcased not only his excellent guitar work; but also his ability to orchestrate, mix and produce.." "All in all I give this record gets a 4 star rating, for excellent sound quality, musicianship, technique, ballsy riffing and most of all super melodies!" "What I found different about these tracks was that he laid back a little more and truly played soulful notes with each one leaving more of an overall lasting impression." "Quite simply this is a white hot rock/metal CD. With a razors edge that'll cut you!"
SITE INCLUDES: check out Chris' site for more. And to purchase his CD.
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Unfortunately Demi's featured artist column was lost. DOHH!! However,
there is a review of his CD in my reviews page.
Check It Out! sorry Demi......... |
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This man is a border line virtuoso blues/jazz
guitarist. Whose CD's include both vocal and instrumental tracks. With a
deep rooted soul and a vocabulary that I'm still working on. Barry takes
a classic approach to todays music. If your tired of guitars that scream
at you constantly. Listen to one that actually has some thing to say. (my apologies to Barry for this poorly written article below. Looking back this a horrible article. I owe you a better one) Check out this great blues/rock guitarist. Sample his 2 c.d.'s...I know you'll dig it.
On
his first c.d. "The Moment Of Now". He pays tribute to four of the
masters: JEFF BECK, JIMI HENDRIX, CARLOS SANTANA, AND ROBIN TROWER. As well
as 7 more original songs. All played in his own inimitable style.
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T.D. CLARK is a skilled and tasteful rock guitarist
with a heavy dose of shred. His songs are varied in influence and style.
Going from peaceful acoustic work to some of the freshest rock grooves to
intense in your face shred. Whether he's laying down a hot rock groove
or kickin' in the nitro for a ride you won't soon forget. He plays with the
intensity and devotion of a well seasoned player. Which he is. Having opened
for or played with some of the best. Including Pat Travers, Tony MacAlpine,
Dave Urich, Gary Hoey, Ted Nugent and Bad Company. In a
world of homogenized cookie cutter bands. T.D.'s music is a breath of fresh
air. And his songs are memorable and addictive.
CHECK OUT THESE QUOTES: "He really stands out in the Instrumentalist world today". "T.D. is a virtuoso. He is a master in many forms of playing, classical, rock, metal, blues, pop, Latin, and so on". "Instrumental tracks like "Avalanche", "Still Waters" and "The Fugitive", display incredible feel as well as scorching technique". "T.D Clark is a guitar hero and axeman of a top class". "A fantastically tasteful red hot rock/shred player. With great, (well written) songs".
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Rowland is a musical virtuoso from Canada. A
true acoustic master. Who is just as at home on the electric guitar as on
the acoustic guitar. Being trained on the violin at an early age, Rowland
took the skills he acquired through playing such a disciplined music and
instrument and created a unique guitar style and sound. His songs are often
moody and always emotional. (if his songs don't touch you and it's real dark
where you are "you must be dead") His songs evoke emotions in me I didn't
even know I had. Don't get the feeling Rowland can't rock though. No, no,
no, he can rock with the same intensity. And when he rocks it's even more
emotional at times. (sorta like being thrown into a brick wall-but with love.)
How can one guitarist be so versatile? Composer, arranger, orchestrator,
player, and pure genius at all four. He is the quintessential musician. Rowland
has an incredible musical vocabulary, and I hear every word.
Check out these quotes: "This is truly the way the guitar was intended to sound!" "I love "The Fever!" The haunting harmonies are so beautiful! The first time I heard it, I just sat silent. When it was over, all I could say was, "Wow"! "My current favorites are Shepherd's Hill (the voice is very ethereal and this piece achieves what I call perfection in balance of voice and instrumental - it seems almost heavenly)"
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Frankenshred is a Metal/Rock instrumental trio
from Arizona. Featuring the infamous Dr. Frankenshred on the axe. And I do
mean "axe". In the hands of the Dr. the guitar could be considered a weapon.
If guitar music indeed could be used to kill, the Dr. would be a secret
government weapon! All joking aside this is one incredible over the top
guitarist. Frightening speeds and intense, extremely well written songs sets
him apart from all the copycats. Whether your a fan of rock(ala satriani),
neoclassical(ala yngwie), extreme(ala stump), or metal(ala dime bag darrel)
you'll dig this. Dr. Frankenshred is a true shred menace, with great
songs and a very original style. And a perfect blend of rock/metal/thrash
rhythms. Keeping the songs fresh with every listen. I would like to mention
the Dr's fellow assailants: World War Spencer on bass and Kelly Knight on
drums. Without whom, the monster known as Frankenshred would not be as
frightening!
Check out these quotes: "Precision, darkness and a twisted bastard vibe make for a killer journey into the haunted HMO headed by Dr. Frankenshred". "Musicians will love the sheer brutality and shameless display of technique the band lays out for us. The catchy riffs, tempo and mood shifts are enough to keep the "non-musician's" listening too". "Take my advice - sell your other c.d.'s to get money and buy this one". SITE INCLUDES - bio,sounds,pics,showdates,reviews etc.
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