Lionsgate - s/t (2007)Azna Records

A Canadian band, founded in 2003, chiefly is a child of a guitarist, bassist and keyboard player - Chad Sloan of another heavy metal band - Apocalypse. Mr. Sloan was voted as "MP3's Best Guitarist" in a portal MP3.com, so I can regard that event as a driving force pushing his ideas into a new band. His collaborators are Paul DeBellis (vocals, piano; Rough Cafe, Galloway, Undercover) and Reg James (drums, keys; Paris).

I won't write at length on Lionsgate's debut, but try to present its contests in a condensed form. Beyond all doubt, the band move around hard'n'heavy area with neoclassical feeling included in guitar solos. Mid tempos prevail here, but mandatory are fast parts, retardations and acoustic interludes. DeBellis' manner is comparable to Mats Léven's and he copes with a high parts very well. Riffs themselves are simple and straightforward, and only guitar solos vary the structures of compositions. The sound is as rough as on Malmsteen's "War To End All Wars", however it isn't an accusation, but rather my personal sense. Generally, Chad distinctly refers to the second period of Malmsteen's solo activity (since 1997). The Canadian guitarist applies a twin fingering (sliding), similar riffing and produces sonic chops alike. Similarly as a Swedish guitarist finished "Trilogy" with "Trilogy Suite Op. 5", Mr. Sloan did the same with his "Nikita Suite Op. 3".

In my opinion, Mr. Sloan is under a great influence of classical and hard rock music. What does his Malmsteen-esque style derive from? Fascination? Staring at a Swede's works? Aspirations for surpassing the guitar master? Guesswork could be multiplied, but it would be pointless. Chad has never aimed at recording experimental, avantgarde or instrumental freaky music, but included a classic hard'n'heavy tradition on a disc. Pardon, also some neoclassical icing added! Summing up, if you love Yngwie Malmsteen's releases, you can purchase this CD without hesitation.