David Valdes - Paradise Lost (2002)Heavencross Records

This Spaniard was previously associated with much more extreme metal bands, but then influenced by classical composers (Johann Sebastian Bach, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Frederic Chopin, Antonio Vivaldi, Niccolo Paganini) and the instrumentalists of so-called "widdly-widdly" generation (Yngwie Malmsteen, Jason Becker, Marty Friedman, Vinnie Moore, Tony MacAlpine, Paul Gilbert and others), he decided to direct towards virtuosic music.

On his debut solo CD, David handled all guitars and other instruments on his own, and entrusted a mastering to a real master, David T. Chastain, haha. I admit that a Spanish guitarist has chosen possibly the best track of development. I am sure that his talent would have gone to waste in previous groups. Mr. David Valdes Miranda is compared to a few famous guitarists, but his greatest axe inspirer is undoubtedly grandiose Jason Becker what finds its confirmation in the tracks like "Legend" and "Time Up!". Next compositions like "Fallen Angel" and "My Enchanted Forest" are adequately influenced by Vinnie Moore and Tony MacAlpine. I can't explain whose cover is a track "Cacophony", rather mention it is very syncopated and backed by powerful sound. His luminous speed reminds me of George Bellas' velocity. We will find solace in Johann Sebastian Bach's "BWV 1046 Adagio". I'd like to point out that he doesn't thoughtlessly copy the masters, but wisely refers to neoclassical originals. The most characteristic factor of his album are a lush guitar wizardry plus creeping and distorted tones embellished with furious and wonderful solos. Spaniard's accelerations are seductive, shredding parts hack like a razor, guitar sound is rich and sleek, all the tracks are aptly arranged, and riffs are heavy, progressive, yet appealing, especially as they are decorated with advanced solos. The CD isn't run out of romantic melodies, noble and royal chops as well.

The album is littered with world's virtuosic music on a territory of neoclassical shredding metal. In my opinion, David Valdes is Jason Becker's heir apparent, since he has carried forward American's guitar mission. Even though Mr. Valdes' music is somehow hit, I hope his name will go down in the history of virtuoso kinds od music!