There are very few musicians who try experimenting in more than one genre and lately, there is a rise of those who do. Many musicians have their own bands and they also have their solo projects where they play music different than what they do in the band. One of the examples seen this year was Zakk Wylde when he released his second solo album ‘Book of Shadows II’. Now there is another legend in the metal industry that goes by the name of Monte Pittman.

Monte Pittman is known as the lead guitarist for Madonna. He has also worked with Adam Lambert, Prong and Myra Mains, exploring all kinds of music with his guitar. This time he’s signed with Metal Blade Records for his 7th studio album, ‘Inverted Grasp of Balance’ releasing on 23rd September 2016. If you are looking of an eclectic and blow-your-mind heavy metal album, then this is the one for you. Getting to the album, Monte Pittman is an excellent vocalist and even better guitarist. He is one of those guitarists, who, when writing a song start with a basic idea and let the idea carry forward and form a song out of it. Accompanying him on the album are two more stalwarts in their respective instruments: Richard Christy as the drummer from band Charred Walls of the Damned and also Iced Earth, and Billy Sheehan as the bassist, renowned for his work with Mr. Big, David Lee Roth and Winery Dogs.

One of the factors that make the album shine is its flow. The album flows as clear and smoothly as water, reflecting that Monte [Pittman] knows his instrument and doesn’t let it go out of control. He lets it take its own direction but under his supervision. That makes the album beautiful to listen to. The album is a fine blend of shredding and melodious riffs, Monte’s vocals goes over the top and almost too good to be true; but in fact true. Rhythm guitar on all of them is ferocious. Every layer of instrument is worth enjoying and it takes you on a journey. Production on the album does justice to the music of the album and is commendable.

Monte Pittman delves into various styles of music in this album and it wouldn’t be fair to pick every single of them and point out what makes the album great. The highlight of the album is its concluding track, “New Blood Keeps Us Alive”. It begins with a serene acoustic part, blended with country music and the sound of rain in the background that transitions to metal after creating a beautiful atmosphere and picks up the pace and it has the best guitar solo on the album and then goes right back into the country touch. If the previous 11 tracks weren’t too perfect, then this track goes beyond them. One of those rare tracks that is magical and surreal; one you will love to listen to on repeat.

‘Inverted Grasp of Balance´ isn’t an album, it’s an experience. Monte Pittman has released one of the best albums of 2016. It’s strong and firm, and that is just the first minute of the album.

Buy Monte Pittman new album here:  www.nervegas.com.au/monte-pittman-inverted-grasp-of-balance-cd