This is the RoadrunneR release of "Dragon's Kiss" the first studio album by guitarist Marty Friedman, released in 1988 through Shrapnel Records. After parting ways with Jason Becker and Cacophony, Freidman composed his solo debut with the help of producer Mike Varney, as well as having some help from his former bandmate, Becker. Later, in his search to replace guitarist Jeff Young, Megadeth's Dave Mustaine, initially rejecting Friedman based upon his "flashy" image, accepted Friedman after listening to the album. Afterwards, he would seek greater fame with best-selling albums like "Rust In Peace", "Countdown To Extinction" and "Youthanasia", producing some of their best-known hits like Holy Wars...The Punishment Due and Symphony Of Destruction.
Released in 1988 under the renowned label RoadrunneR Records, "Dragon's Kiss" is an exceptional 12" LP vinyl album that showcases the extraordinary talent of one of the most influential guitarists in the history of heavy metal, Marty Friedman. Produced by Friedman himself, along with Mike Varney serving as the executive producer, this album served as a launching pad for Friedman's illustrious solo career after his departure from the legendary metal band, Megadeth.
Recorded at Prairie Sun Studio A and mastered at Fantasy Studios by the skilled George Horn, "Dragon's Kiss" encapsulates the raw energy and virtuosity of Marty Friedman's playing. The album features Friedman not only on electric guitar but also on bass guitar, demonstrating his versatility and command over multiple instruments. Assisting Friedman in creating this masterpiece is Deen Castronovo on drums, providing the powerful rhythmic foundation that complements Friedman's guitar wizardry.
One notable feature of "Dragon's Kiss" is the collaboration with Jason Becker, who contributes additional guitar solos on tracks 1 and 6. This partnership between two immensely talented guitarists creates an awe-inspiring synergy that elevates the album to even greater heights.
From the moment the needle hits the vinyl, "Dragon's Kiss" unleashes an onslaught of lightning-fast riffs, intricate melodies, and mind-bending solos. The album serves as a testament to Friedman's technical prowess and his ability to craft memorable compositions that captivate listeners. Each track on the album presents a unique sonic journey, showcasing Friedman's command over various styles, including heavy metal, neoclassical, and progressive rock.
One of the standout tracks on the album is the opening song, "Saturation Point". It grabs the listener's attention with its blistering guitar work, showcasing Friedman's effortless speed and precision. The combination of complex riffs and catchy melodies creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
Another highlight of "Dragon's Kiss" is the track "Dragon Mistress". This song exhibits Friedman's ability to infuse Eastern influences into his music, incorporating exotic scales and harmonies that add a touch of mysticism. The song showcases his melodic sensibility and serves as a testament to his ability to blend diverse musical elements seamlessly.
As the album progresses, tracks like "Evil Thrill" and "Jewel" continue to mesmerize with their intricate guitar work, showcasing Friedman's innate ability to weave together melodic lines and shred with astonishing precision. The album also features a breathtaking cover of the traditional Japanese song "Yuki no Hana" (Snow Flower), which displays Friedman's deep appreciation for Japanese culture and his ability to infuse his unique style into diverse musical landscapes.
"Dragon's Kiss" is a masterclass in guitar virtuosity and a definitive showcase of Marty Friedman's prodigious talent. While the album exemplifies his technical ability, it also demonstrates his compositional skills and his ability to create music that resonates with listeners on an emotional level. The album's enduring popularity is a testament to the lasting impact of Friedman's artistry and his contribution to the realm of heavy metal and instrumental music.
Music Genre: Instrumental Rock / Metal |
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Album Production information: The album: "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" was produced by: Marty Friedman Mike Varney - Executive Producer Discover the story behind Mike Varney, the visionary founder of Shrapnel Records, who redefined rock and heavy metal by launching guitar legends—explore his journey on his dedicated webpage
Dino Alden: The Genius Sound Engineer Who Defined Heavy Metal’s Greatest Hits – See How He Shaped Music History! This album was recorded at: Prairie Sun Studio A. Prairie Sun Recording Studios, located in Cotati, California, has been a pivotal force in rock and metal music, shaping legendary albums with its world-class facilities and expert engineering. Hosting iconic bands from the 1980s onward, it remains a creative hub for artists seeking top-tier sound production. Explore its history and album gallery here.
Mastered at Fantasy Studios by George Horn George Horn is a legendary Chief Mastering Engineer renowned for his work at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley and CBS Studios in San Francisco. His precision, sonic artistry, and deep collaborations in the heavy metal scene have left a lasting legacy on vinyl. Read the full biography.
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Record Label & Catalognr: |
RoadrunneR RR 9529 |
Media Format: |
12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: |
1988 Made in Netherlands |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" is: Track-listing
1. "Saturation Point" (Friedman, Jason Becker) 4:53 |
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" |
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Close-up Photo of "MARTY FRIEDMAN - Dragon's Kiss" Record Label |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |