Supersonic Shred Machine

Guitar shred master Joe Stump continues to keep the proverbial pedal to the metal on his third solo release. There are no real surprises here for the casual listener; however, much like jazz improvisation, closer scrutiny reveals there is more happening than appears on the surface. While his debt to Yngwie Malmsteen and Richie Blackmore are obvious, tracks such as "Backstabber" and "Fall From Grace" reveal the emergence of a more well-rounded and distinctive player. His technique is flawless and sounds even better, thanks to the improved production quality compared to his previous releases. Most of the selections are simply vehicles for his dazzling arpeggios (much like in bebop), but to his credit that's the only reason anyone is going to want to listen in the first place. With that goal in mind, mission accomplished, as this recording is chock-full of blistering guitar solos from start to finish. For those who are unashamed to admit to such guilty pleasures, Joe Stump more than fits the bill.