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As a shredhead, I rather enjoy this album.
After all, it's the return of the mighty Racer X, a band
that has always represented all things shred. And let me
tell you, they still do as their latest release, Technical
Difficulties is nothing short of a skull-crushing display
of shred mastery.
The Performance: Let me start off by
saying that every single performer on this record wails!!
Paul Gilbert, whose solo career has been more pop-oriented
returns to his shred roots, and believe me, it was worth
the wait. Gilbert's guitar work seems like it could have
been sped-up, but it's not, he's just that damn good! Drummer
Scott Travis is just unbelievable. It's no wonder Judas
Priest snatched him up — he's the kind of drummer that
can define, or re-define, the sound of a band. Vocalist
Jeff Martin is at his Halford-sounding best, and dare I
say that he sounds better on this album than he ever has.
His voice has matured and his range has expanded, thus making
him a better all around singer. Bassist John Alderete is
another bona-fide shredder who makes his presence known
throughout the album. And the result of all these guys playing
together has the impact of a nuclear blast.
The Songs: Technical Difficulties
features a stellar collection of shred-oriented metal tunes.
They are also well-written, and very catchy songs that allow
room for solos galore. Highlights include "Fire Of
Rock", "Technical Difficulties", "Bolt
In My Heart" and "B.R.O." which is Paul Gilbert's
awesome rendition of Bach.
The Production: The production is generally
good as all the instruments shine. I really liked Scott
Travis' drum sound. The bass could have been more prominent
at times.
The Bottom Line: This is ESSENTIAL
for all you shredheads. Between Paul Gilbert's shred wizardry
and Scott Travis' heart-pounding drums, Racer X delivers!
Pick it up!
Shred Pick - "Snakebite" (4:23)
Reviewed by Henry
Bocanegra
Artist Web Site: www.racerxband.com
E-mail Racer X: Paul Gilbert (pablogt@paulgilbert.com);
Jeff Martin (MotormanJM@yahoo.com);
John Alderete (AldereteintheY2K@yahoo.com);
Scott Travis (travulous@yahoo.com)
Order
Racer X - Technical Difficulties from
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