Malmsteen's Concerto Suite for Guitar

Artist: Yngwie Johann Malmsteen
Title: Concerto Suite for Guitar and the New Japan Philharmonic Live
Genre: Rock-Instrumental-Classical
Format: DVD
Label: Eagle Vision

I heard a lot about Yngwie Malmsteen but never sought out his music. It is just one of those things. This has happened to me with many artists and then I find out later how much I enjoy their music.

In 2001, Malmsteen joined the new Japan Philharmonic Orchestra to play a Concerto Suite for Electric Guitar. Malmsteen wrote the concerto in e flat minor and the results are astounding.

His playing is lightning-quick throughout this unique presentation of rock meets classical. Although the blend of rock music with classical is well documented over the years in many progressive and art rock albums, this is an exception to what you may have heard before. I have to say that this is not your ordinary recording and to see it happen before your eyes is a real treat.

There are many close-ups of Malmsteen’s hands and because of it, you can really feel the impact of the performance and appreciate the man’s talent. There is not any posturing or showboating by Malmsteen, he just walks on stage and plays his ass off, period. The orchestra is wonderful, making his concerto come to life. It all comes to fruition with colorful imagery because of the brilliance of combining the beauty and complexity of classical with the high energy of rock music.

I knew this was something that I had to see but was not too sure what to expect. This DVD went beyond any expectations I had prior to watching it. It is necessary addition to your collection-particularly for anyone that enjoys incredible instrumental rock music backed by an orchestra.

© Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck-http://www.muzikreviews.com

November 3, 2005

Rating-9/10

1. BLACK STAR OVERTURE
2. TRILOGY SUITE OP. 5
3. BROTHERS
4. ICARUS DREAM FANFARE
5. CAVALLINO RAMPANTE
6. FUGUE
7. PRELUDE TO APRIL
8. TOCCATA
9. ANDANTE
10. SARABANDE
11. ALLEGRO
12. ADAGIO
13. VIVACE
14. PRESTO VIVACE
15. FINALE
16. BLITZKRIEG
17. FAR BEYOND THE SUN
18. EVIL EYE
Bonus Features:
Exclusive Interview With Yngwie
Bonus Song: "Evil Eye"