INTRODUCTION

Marty Friedman isn't afraid to show his softer side, that is for sure. As this album eschews any form of his thick metal past in favor of a new age influenced and thoughtful release that takes composition and sheer prettiness over any sort of instrumental guitar cliche. Arrival is so somber and beautiful. The melodies are never lost, nor are they ignored. They are put in front along with atmospheric sensibilities and sonic exploration.

You can plainly see the the new age and eastern (particularly Asian) influences on his sound. Bittersweet contains a prudent and morose melody that worms itself into your very heart. The guitar is rarely ever prominent, either. This leaves room for the violin and cello to shine through so magnificently. Be has him taking his progress from Scenes and applying it to his matured sense of songwriting and composition. This record is moody in the best way.

Escapism has to be the album's centerpiece and main accomplishment. Taking vast melodic cues and stringing them through such soulful eclipsing execution. And it never gets boring. The passages are emotional and they are loose and flowing. Luna has such a vivid piano accompaniment. And the soft vocals inherent are evocative.

Mama has a lurid grave about it. This feels as if it were the soundtrack to the prettiest movie you've ever seen. Each movement has such alluring grace. No showmanship at all. This is not a record to prove one's technical prowess. Although in a compositional view, this could very well do the trick. Loneliness feels just as that. The melodies are so rich and textured. Accentuated by faint and soft effects and crystalline production. Is that a flute I hear? Yes, this album is more varied than any of his previous work. The moods are varying, and it is an affecting album. His guitar playing is so fluid and comfortable. Siberia closes things off on a cold flourish.

This album marks Marty Friedman's creative peak. The melodies are vast and awe inspiring. The playing is confident and alluring, and it all feels strikingly cohesive. Brilliant.

Best Song - Escapism

Worst Song - No real weak material here, but possibly Mama

***** Stars.

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