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Hemer, Patrick: More Than Meets the Eye
Hemer, Patrick: More Than Meets the Eye
Melodic Heavy/Power/Prog Metal
4.0/5.0
Nightmare Records/Sony Red
Website
MySpace
by Craig Hartranft, 12.12.2011
Probably best known for his work with Horizon, guitarist Patrick Hemer steps out on his own with his first solo album More Than Meets the Eye. The album, like most of its kind, is an platform for Hemer's rather impressive neo-classical guitar style in a tradition melodic heavy/power, sometimes, progressive metal context. In this sense, for song composition, Hemer strays far from work akin to Horizon and other bands operating in the field. Therefore, whether a fan of the genre or a lover of this classic metal guitar style, Hemer and company do not disappoint.
For the pure fret magic, Hemer offers two excellent instrumentals with Firelight and Terra Incognita. Other songs offer traditional melodic heavy metal. On the more steady heavy side Up from the Ashes and Edge of Insanity deliver. For a more galloping quick pace, there's Thorn in My Flesh. You'll find metal with a familiar and accessible groove in Guilty. Then, there a slower, near ballad, side to his style on For All Eternity. Hemer gives an homage to one of his influences when he covers Queen's Death on Two Legs, one of the bands more heavier and edgier numbers. Hemer distills that essence and then ratchets up the grittiness. It sounds good.
Ultimately, however, More Than Meets the Eye is Hemer's show; it's all about his fiery guitar work within in his own composition in the his most comfortable genre. Hey, it's all good, and not entirely a self-serving platter of self indulgent musicianship. Very recommended.
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In Short
More Than Meets the Eye, Patrick Hemer's first solo project, finds the guitarist displaying both his exceptional song composition and fiery fret skills.
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eviewing my archives, I was pleased to find that I have had the privilege to review every Lionville since their self-titled debut in 2011. Formed by Stefano Lionetti, a songwriter, singer and guitarist based in ... [ Read More ]