2007-12-16
A common problem with instrumental albums made by "guitar heroes" is that many of these heroes feel the need to show everyone that they're world champions at speed/technique/shred and other wonders, and somewhere along the way they lose sight of the musical & melodic qualities that are essential to any music album- especially an instrumental one.
Another problem is the tendency to neglect the other aspects of the album but guitar playing- using drum machines, lousy production quality and guitar players that can also play some bass, keyboards, harp, flute etc..
Fortunately, this album does not suffer from any of these problems: this doesn't mean that
Theodore Ziras isn't a super-technical guitar freak or that the album lacks in the shred/speed department…but everything is done with taste and blends well with the other instruments.
Talking about other instruments-there's definitely an added value on this album: Derek Sherinian (ex- Dream Theater, Alice Cooper, Malmsteen etc.) does a wonderful job throughout the album, going toe to toe with Theodore while combining his own musical influences. The drums are manned by an actual human, flesh and blood, called Brian Tichy (ex- Ozzy, Zakk Wylde, Billy Idol), that keeps up with the genial duo and gives great precision rhythm work at the background.
Bass is played by Theodore's Greek companion Manos Markopoulus, that does his share of the music without sticking out too much- a good thing in my opinion.
The music on this album is diverse and not a bit boring- some tracks will remind you of classic Malmsteen, others of Satriani, Vai and even Metallica. Musical influences vary from rock to fusion, heavy metal to neo-classical, and even some prog-metal.
The production of the album and its sound are superb, the balance and chemistry between the musician admirable, and the mixture of styles very entertaining.
In my humble opinion, the best is kept for last: both of the last tracks are brilliant-"Hyperpyrexia" with its metallic riffs, catchy melody and fierce technique, which kept playing in my head long after I heard the song, and "Go East"-a beautiful and complex number that leaves a taste for more.
In conclusion - Theodore Ziras is a great Greek Guitar "Hero", and his album has not defined guitar playing in a new manner, but will definitely supply its listeners an interesting and pleasant experience.
Recommended!
Kumeran Dalach
