Apr/100
John5
John5 might be the most versatile guitarist in hard rock today. That's a big and far-reaching statement, to say the least! But if you look at who he's worked with and listened to his music the guy is a chameleon! He made his bones with Marilyn Manson - and lot's of people think that's what he's all about - goth/shock/metal (or whatever the hell you want to call it). But wait, there's more! John has played and/or written with the likes of David Lee Roth, Paul Stanley, Leah Andreone, Rob Zombie and Lynyrd Skynrd. His diverse set of influences sets the template for his guitar prowess - he can shred with the best of them or layback and do some tasty bluegrass fingerpicking.
There's lots of highlights on his new album THE ART OF MALICE (available everywhere May 11). "Ya Dig" is inspired by John's collaborating with David Lee Roth (and features Billy Sheehan on bass) and sounds like it could be on a Van Halen record or the DLR album he did with Dave. The title cut is an array of amazing chops, from classical to country-fried picking. "J.W." is a country-tinged little romp that could be on a Quentin Tarantino soundtrack. "Fractured Mirror" is an homage to John's hero Ace Frehley.
There's a lot to love on this album! From start to finish its a guitar lover's paradise. I love the likes of a Satriani or Vai, but many times their albums lack variety and sheer depth. THE ART OF MALICE has that in abundance and John's guitar prowess is the equal to anyone's.
