SCENES

One of my favorite guitarists returns with another shred storm...

Or not, this album is more experimental than his debut album, by far. Where Dragon's Kiss was a solid straight forward instrumental metal album, this begins with a very soft and atmospheric track entitled "Tibet" And like the name, quite a few eastern and world influences are apparent within the mix. Angel lets loose the guitar playing, yet it holds an air of majesty and restraint not normally seen within the instrumental guitar genre. There are some frenetic solo sections, but they don't overload the song, instead the focus is put to creating a cohesive atmosphere and melodic structure.

Valley of Eternity feels like Forbidden City from the previous release, and that is a compliment. Well, this one focuses much more on the surreal textures and crisp acoustic playing. The synthesizer lines never offend, either. They do wonders for the overall mood, which is quite relaxing and captivating. (an instrumental metal album relaxing?) It is. Marty has a wondrous ear for melody. And his playing is always top class. This debut trades in the direct steam and power of his debut, with somber aura. The songs relay a stately winding tenacity that can dig into your heart. Impassioned performance if I ever heard one.

There is more diversity here, but not by a lot. And the guy still lets loose some mighty ferocious playing from time to time. Night has some strong bluesy soloing, which I quite enjoy. I feel it goes on for a bit too long, but nothing offends, and it is quite the supple journey. Subtlety isn't a word to toss around in his main genre, but I can easily note that he can be quite subtle with his melodies, and those exotic lead lines are still fantastic.

The world influences are even more prominent, and those female vocals are surprising in Realm of the Senses, warping the song into a deep and pretty melancholy. The synthesizer work fits well with the sweet vocal snippets that appear throughout, making for an ambient and solid track. West continues the sound scape exploration. Although with basic melodic presentation that lacks diversity. It doesn't keep from being beautiful, though. Trance stomps out with a trudging rock. The riff is fine, and the song is pomp lined as ever. Triumph calls feelings of just that is it takes the record home on a very high note. Marty would all but leave shredding entirely on his next release.

The sophomore effort is plagued with the lack of diversity, and somewhat weaker melodies replaced by more sonic exploration and experimentation. This album also lacks that bite, but makes up for this by having more sheer beauty than the debut, so it is quite an even call.

Best Song - Valley of Eternity

Worst Song - Night

**** atmospheric stars

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