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 highly acclaimed Chief Mastering Engineer known for his exceptional work at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, as well as his contributions as a mastering engineer at CBS Studios in San Francisco. Renowned for his expertise and meticulous attention to detail, Horn has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of numerous heavy metal albums, collaborating frequently with industry stalwarts such as Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. Born with an innate passion for music, George Horn's journey in the world of audio engineering began early on. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to various genres and instruments, which fueled his curiosity and desire to understand the technical aspects of sound. His fascination with the process of capturing and enhancing audio quality led him to pursue a formal education in audio engineering and mastering. After completing his studies, Horn embarked on his professional career at CBS Studios in San Francisco, where he honed his skills under the guidance of seasoned engineers. During his tenure there, he had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, gaining invaluable experience and establishing a reputation for his exceptional ear for sound. Horn's true breakthrough came when he joined the esteemed team at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. As the Chief Mastering Engineer at this iconic studio, he oversaw the final stage of the production process, meticulously fine-tuning the sound of countless albums. It was here that he forged significant partnerships with renowned heavy metal producers and engineers, including Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. The collaboration between George Horn and these industry luminaries proved to be a winning formula, resulting in numerous highly acclaimed heavy metal albums that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their combined expertise and creative synergy pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering powerful and sonically rich recordings that defined the sound of many iconic bands. With a keen understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music, George Horn's mastering work brought out the best in each album he touched. His acute attention to detail ensured that every element of the music, from the thunderous guitars to the pounding drums and soaring vocals, was presented with exceptional clarity, power, and balance. His precise and artistic approach to mastering contributed greatly to the overall impact and emotional resonance of the final product. Throughout his career, George Horn has received widespread acclaim for his contributions to the music industry. His work has earned him multiple awards and nominations, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest mastering engineers in the business. Beyond heavy metal, he has also worked on a diverse range of genres, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as an engineer. George Horn's dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have made him a trusted figure in the world of audio engineering. His contributions to heavy metal music, in particular, have left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing the way it sounds and ensuring its enduring popularity. Today, George Horn continues to push the boundaries of audio engineering, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the sonic experience. His passion for music and unwavering pursuit of sonic perfection have made him a revered figure among musicians, producers, and fellow engineers alike. Through his remarkable work, George Horn has undoubtedly shaped the landscape of heavy metal and left an enduring legacy in the realm of audio mastering.
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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 ). |