IMPELLITTERI

Chris Impellitteri is a US virtuoso guitarist, whose immense talent has been recognised since the early 1990s. He has sold in excess of 1 million albums and worked with the likes of Graham Bonnet, Pat Torpey (Mr Big) and Claude Schnell (Dio). It appears evident that Impellitteri has attained quite a fan base and is highly respected by his peers. ‘Wicked Maiden’, which features the excellent voice of Rob Rock, is well crafted, thumping, anthemic, melodic metal reminding me of the more accessible rocking side of Rainbow, MSG and Randy Rhoads era Ozzy Osbourne. Rock - a one time member of the short lived super group M.A.R.S. with Tony MacAlpine, Tommy Aldridge and Rudy Sarzo - possesses a majestic, soaring voice but, unsurprisingly, it is the breathtaking guitar work which stands out with Impellitteri consistently delivering riffs, lead lines and solos that show off his undoubted technical skill. The title track is a solid opener and a good stomping rock song. ‘Last Of A Dying Breed’, ‘Weapons Of Mass Distortion’ and ‘Garden Of Eden’ are well written songs with memorable choruses. ‘The Vision’ is a more commercial track, which has the potential of generating significant airplay and TV exposure should it receive sufficient promotion in the right markets. ‘Eyes Of An Angel’, ‘High School Revolution’, and ‘Wonderful Life’ are good solid tracks and are also instantly likeable. Although the performances and production on ‘Wicked Maiden’ are excellent throughout, it is Impellitteri's inspirational work that most impresses, displaying an effortless ability of complimenting the songs without overdoing the showmanship. ‘Wicked Maiden’ comes highly recommended for any fan of classic melodic metal with a passion for superb musicianship.

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Metal Heaven

Album

WICKED MAIDEN

Review by Dave Crewe

RUNNING TIME:

43:06

RELEASE DATE:

27th April 2009

TRACK LISTING

1) Wicked Maiden
2) Last of a Dying Breed
3) Weapons of Mass Distortion
4) Garden of Eden
5) The Vision
6) Eyes of an Angel
7) High School Revolution
8) Wonderful Life
9) Holyman
10) The Battle Rages On

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

USA

"...it is the breathtaking guitar work which stands out with Impellitteri consistently delivering riffs, lead lines and solos that show off his undoubted technical skill."