JOE MATERA / SLAVE TO THE FINGERS (2011)

Joe Matera is an Australian solo instrumental guitarist and he has already a 20-plus career in his shoulder! Matera was the lead guitarist in Australian rock band GEISHA (2007-2010) and founding lead axeman for classic rock group DOUBLE VISION (2003-2008). He has, also, been involved in several projects and recordings, one of which includes being guest guitar soloist on legendary UK metallers ATOMKRAFT's scorching cover of THIN LIZZY's "Cold Sweat".

His first solo attemp was the acoustic instrumental "Travellin' West" in Sept. 2010. In 2011, the "Slave To The Fingers" EP is a fact and it's about a well-crafted instrumental cd that shows the excellent abilities of this guitarist. This EP opens with a brilliant rockin' intro. For sure, a great apettizer of what's coming up next! The self-titled track, "Slave To The Fingers", is simply stunning! It has a nice riff and the melody here is over the top. Really nice stuff! The track also features a special guest appearence by guitarist Mick McConnell of legendary rock band Smokie! "Cruise Control" is the EP's leading single and it's another excellent sample of pure melodic guitar bliss! It has an 70's feeling all over the tune and has a Thin Lizzy-esque spirit!! "Out Of The Blue" is more US-flavoured and the last one, "Face Off", is another good one.

Overall, this is an excellent instrumental album. The fact is that the name Joe Matera was a stanger to me till now. I'm really impressed by this guitarist's skills and his abilities to write instrumental music without being boring. I really enjoyed every single moment of this EP. Well done, Joe!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 8,5/10

Track List : 1. Intro, 2. Slave To The Fingers, 3. Cruise Control, 4. Out Of The Blue, 5. Face Off , 6. Face Off (Video-Clip) (http://joematera.com/home.cfm )