VITALIJ KUPRIJ is widely regarded as the world's leading Metal keyboardist as well as a skilfull pianist and composer. He was born in Ukrainia and he is consistently at the top of keyboard player polls worldwide, constantly being involved in neo-classical albums or progressive bands like ARTENSION andRING OF FIRE. He has received many awards and prizes int the past, a fact that makes his whole musicianship even more extraordinary. Additionaly Vitalij has issued solo albums such as Glacial Inferno - which is actually his fifth solo one - having as guest musicians Michael Harris on guitar, and the former YNGWIE MALMSTEEN's musicians John Macaluso on drums and Randy Coven on bass. Both albums belong in the so called neo-classical, progressive style. Vitalij Kuprij's Revenge includes cooperation with vocalists Joe Lynn Turner (RAINBOW, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN and solo), Dougie White (RAINBOW/YNGWIE MALMSTEEN), Goran Edman (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN/JOHN NORUM) plus many more. The sound here can be described as a mixture of melodic Power Metal containing elements of classical rearrangements as well as improvisations and personal identity. Not so bad after all, I would rather say. Glacial Inferno is dynamic album that contains heavy, virtuosic, powerful and even some traditional folk stuff. I think that both albums are a kind of must have releases for fans of neo-classical or progressive Metal music. For the rest maybe the experience is kind of unnecessary. I think that if you are not so familiar with instrumental or neoclassical stuff album, in general, you may find this kind of music annoying or boring from time to time. On the other hand, since this is a limited edition double pack this is a really good bargain and chance to come into contact with such musical elements and expand your sonic knowledge. Highlights of this album can be considered - amongst the other - the following ones: Symphonic Force, Fire In The Sun, Glacial Inferno, Dancing Flame, Just Another Day, J. Haydn-Excerpt From Sonata In E Minor, Emperor's Will and Let The Future Unfold.
Tracklist:
Disc 1
Glacial Inferno Symphonic Force Liquid Rain Fire In The Sun Divided Horizon Glacial Inferno Dancing Flame Forgive Dying To Live Burning Ice Theme By Albinoni ( Bonus Europe)
Disc 2
Revenge Burning My Soul I Don't Believe In Love Into The Void Revenge Just Another Day J. Haydn-Excerpt From Sonata In E Minor Classic War Emperor's Will Follow Your Heart Stand Up And Fight Let The Future Unfold
Lineup:
Vitalij - Keyboards Michael Harris - Guitar John Macaluso - Drums Randy Coven - Bass