Artist: Michael Angelo Batio CD Title: Hands Without Shadows Reviewed by: Nick Martinelli Reviewed: 11/23/2005

Well extreme shred fans, the king of speed is back again this year with a new release, "Hands Without Shadows." This time around Michael Angelo Batio delivers something a little different, as the album includes only two original Batio songs. So what's on the rest of the cd album? Michael covers hard rock and heavy metal classics, but Angelo style.

Deep Purple must have wrote "Burn" with Batio in mind. Raise the fist of the metal child is all I can say! Michael shreds, shreds and shreds. He blazes through some of the most melodic arpeggio movements I've ever heard! His technique is flawless and amazing as always. He tears through many high octane guitar solos and an impressive neo-classical passage, leaving you craving more. Also, listen for Michael's screaming bends throughout the song; the glass will break. Ritchie would give a thumbs up for sure. "Tribute to Randy" is one that really hits home, because Rhoads for me and many others were our first guitar hero. Batio's version is simply breathtaking and its a wonderful tribute to Randy. Michael takes two Rhoads classics, "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley" and fuses them into a instrumental masterpiece. He doesn't stray far from Rhoad's melody lines, just spicing them up Batio style. A major highlight is "Crazy Train's" main lead. In the original version Rhoads taps, whereas Michael arpeggiated that section out for a different take on this classic movement. Batio also flawlessly created harmonies throughout the "Mr. Crowley" solo. "Hands Without Shadows" is an original Batio number filled with heavy riffin', catchy melodies, and plenty of shred. The main melody and chorus licks are extremely melodic and well written. You'll also hear plenty of Michael's signature speed run fills throughout HWS, so buckle up. "Pray on, Prey" is a slower paced chop fest as Batio again hits your with a infecous melody line and builds up tension during the song. The song's production stands out as well. Michael created a very layered and textured song. Guitar harmonies blend seamlessly with keyboards and the rhythm section. His use of effect driven guitar tone also added to the texturing, making his guitar either cutthroat or creamy from delays and choruses. Lastly, check out the jazzy/fusion lead break starting at 02:32 to totally be blown away.

Michael Angelo Batio went outside the box with "Hands Without Shadows." The cd is packed with awesome renditions of rock anthems, just updated with Batio flare. The two original songs helped quench the thirst new material. "Hands Without Shadows" is must own for guitar music fans.

For more info visit: www.Angelo.com

For a "behind the scenes" on the making of "Hands Without Shadows"