Lick This is a compilation of tracks from various independent guitarists compiled by Guitar 2001 magazine. The song choices are mostly solid, just as you'd expect considering that Guitar 2001 is the brainchild of talented Indie guitarist Michael Knight. There is a wide variety of playing styles represented on this CD, which makes it a great disc for those who are seeking to better understand and appreciate instrumental guitar music. As the back of the jewel case states so well, "From heavy-shred to wacky-fusion, to dream-like progressive, this CD displays all the power and subtleties of the instrument at it's finest form."

Highlights are The Magic Elf's (that's his name!) "Mr. Destructo," which has a frantic pace and at times reminds me of music from a Charles Schulz "Peanuts" TV special (I mean that in a good way!); Rusty Cooley's "The Butcher," a hybrid neoclassical metal/progressive piece backed by heavy bass and drums; Michael Knight's own, upbeat, "Arctic Sun"; Steve Booke's emotive "Last Breath"; Dr. Frankenshred's metal shredfest, "Igor's Revenge"; Bill Pierce's jazz-fusion number, "Spinthrift"; Steve Speelman's complex and intriguing "Moriches Winter Sky"; Michael Lee Ostrander's "Digital Web," which reminds me in many ways of Joe Satriani's recently released Engines of Creation CD (Ostrander recorded this track in 1997, though); Terry Syrek's "Grimpett Widdleshins," which features some experimental, out-of-control soloing; and Mike Chlasciak's ultra-heavy, crunching "Pain Museum."

Hmm, seems I mentioned 10 out of the 15 tracks as highlights. That should tell you something about this disc - it is worth owning. Even the tracks I didn't specifically mention are very good. What's really great about the Lick This CD is that you get a copy with your $17, four issue subscription to Guitar 2001 magazine. Or you can pay $13 for just the CD, but why not shell out the extra four bucks and get the mag, too? Do yourself a favor: subscribe to Guitar 2001, get this CD, and enjoy the magazine. And tell 'em The House of Shred sent you.

Shredfest's Pick: "The Butcher" by Rusty Cooley (4:48) - Listen (RealAudio)

Reviewed by Shredfest