European progressive/metal/virtuoso label Lion Music have recently released some albums which may be of interest to some readers and have some more exciting stuff set for later this month and April.
MARCO SFOGLI - THERE'S HOPE (out now)
Marco has already generated some discussion in this area of the forum, for those that are yet unacquainted with Marco, he was the guitarist on James LaBrie’s last Elements Of Persuasion album and tour (and is indeed writing with him for the next). “There’s Hope” is Marco’s debut instrumental release and is likely to appeal to fans of Satch, Petrucci, Vinnie Moore i.e. good accessible rock guitar, very strong in technique but also very rich in melody.
GEORGE BELLAS – PLANETARY ALIGNMENT (out now)
Arguably one the world’s finest sweep pickers, this is Bellas’ most progressive work to date, the time signatures and rhythms contained on the album are extremely complex and despite not having the neo-classical flavour of George’s earlier works this will not alienate long-term fans as all the Bellas trademarks are here in spades.
ERRORHEAD – MODERN HIPPIE (out 14th March)
Led by guitarist Marcus Deml “Modern Hippie” is for everybody who is craving for the musical spirit of the late 60s and early 70s taken to the year 2008. A modern sound that combines diverse influences such as Rock, Ambient and World music with strong hooks and grooves. Think Hendrix, Pink Floyd and Jeff Beck teaming up for a creative spin but brought up to date.
EMIR HOT – SEVDAH METAL (out March 21st)
Bosnian guitarist Emir Hot makes a serious statement of intent with his debut release ‘Sevdah Metal’. The album is a blend of melodic, progressive and neo-classical metal stylings mixed with traditional Eastern Balkan music with strong influence taken from the ‘Sevdah’ style of Bosnian music (a Bosnian style of blues) to create the unique Emir Hot sound. Adding more fire to Emir’s impressive song writing and guitar work is the soaring voice of ex Royal Hunt / Artension vocalist John West and drum legend Mike Terrana (Masterplan, ex Malmsteen, Axel Rudi Pell, Artension) whose precise and powerful play add even more energy to the 10 tracks on offer.
MATTSSON – DREAM CHILD (out March 21st)
“Dream Child” is the latest release to come from prolific composer and guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson which introduces the stunning new female vocalist Adrienn Antal. “Dream Child” represents the most solid album to date from Mattsson, building upon the solid foundation laid by 2005’s “War”. The new album sees symphonic metal mixed with progressive and gothic elements spiced up with world music inflections to create an album which in Mattsson’s own words is “as complete as possible”.
APRIL 18th RELEASES
JENNIFER BATTEN – WHATEVER
I am sure I don’t need to introduce Jennifer to many of you? If so here goes… critically acclaimed as one of the most imaginative and talented guitarists on the planet and always at the forefront of technology. Jennifer returns after extended time with Jeff Beck for her third solo album and latest sonic tapestry “Whatever”. This new album is released as a cd/dvd double pack.
COSMICS – THE COSMIC YEAR
A new instrumental progressive project from keyboard whiz Daniele Liverani (Twinspirits/Khymera/Genius) with stunning guitar work from 20 year old virtuoso Tommy Ermolli (this kid is sickeningly good!), along with bass work from Rufus Philpot (Planet X) and special guest drummer
Virgil Donati (Planet X, Devil’s Slingshot, Steve Vai). This is although being heavily prog orchestrated is very accessible and addictive.
More info at
www.lionmusic.com and
www.myspace.com/lionmusiclabel
