subversion
Moderator
Marty Friedman: Loudspeaker (Avex Trax)
Invitational performances:
• Steve Vai (guitars)
• John Petrucci (guitars)
• Billy Sheehan (bass)
• Jens Johanssen (Keyboard)
• Jeremy Colson (Drums)
Marty Friedman is an accomplished guitar player; his tenure with Cacophony & Megadeth is testimonial enough. Many would have wondered what would be the agenda for Friedman after the uninspiring ‘Music for Speeding’ which saw an inconcrete offering despite the standard finger gymnastics which we know him for.
Loudspeaker aims to address that lack of focus by featuring diversity & a healthy mix of nonchalance. The tunes compiled here are equally suitable for confrontational moments & solace on lonely nights. Friedman’s playing seems to be refined in areas of phrasings & memorable licks. There were also considerations for the other instruments in the mix so it’s not just the guitar shredding away. There’s very low-tuning heard on selected tracks, might be a baritone in use… Since his lodgings in the fareast, Friedman’s music has that oriental element ingrained almost exclusively, which are evident in majority of the tracks here.
A memorable release by an arguably overlooked player.
Rating: 8/10
**PS: Friedman’s Ibanez SZ debuts here!!
