Former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman will release his new solo album, “Drama”, on May 17 via Frontiers Music Srl
Recorded in Italy, “Drama” showcases Marty Friedman‘s unique touch, for the first time using both vintage and modern guitars, delivering a pure delight for lovers of music everywhere. From the captivating first single “Illumination”, which can be streamed below, to the album’s breathtaking “Mirage” and 10 other emotionally charged mini-symphonies, Marty paints atmospheric elements with a modern and exotic flair, promising an unforgettable musical experience.
Marty Friedman “Drama” track listing:
01. Illumination
02. Song For An Eternal Child
03. Triumph (Official Version)
04. Thrill City
05. Deep End
06. Dead Of Winter
07. Mirage
08. A Prayer
09. Acapella
10. Tearful Confession
11. Icicles
12. 2 Rebeldes (Dead Of Winter) (Spanish version)
12. Mirage (Guitar Karaoke Version) (bonus track Japan)
Recording lineup:
Marty Friedman – Guitar
Wakazaemon – Bass
Gregg Bissonette – Drums
Mika Maruki – Piano, Keyboard & Synth
Hiyori Okuda – Cello
Miho Chigyo – Violin
Vocals on “Dead Of Winter”: Chris Brooks (LIKE A STORM)
Vocals on “2 Rebeldes”: Steven Baquero Vargas
Bass on “Mirage”: Or Lubianiker
Rhythm guitar on “Thrill City”: Naoki Morioka
Keys and synth on “Sanctuary”: Takuro Iga
Drums on “Thrill City”: Chargeeeeee
Marty previously discussed his new solo album at last November’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp‘s “Metalmania III” in Los Angeles, saying: “I’ve got 15 solo albums now, and each time I try to do something new and something I’ve never done before. I don’t want ever to be heard as one of those guys, ‘Ah, his early albums were great.’ You know what I mean? I used to say that about my favorite guitarists — sadly — and I never wanted that to be said about me.
“So I’m always challenging myself on new stuff. On this new album that I’m about 70 percent done with, the closest thing I can relate it to is an album I had called ‘Scenes’ [1992], which I released quite a while ago. It was very dramatic and orchestral, and there was a lot of other type of instruments — violins, cellos and all that type of stuff. So it’s more of a dramatic, orchestral concept. But everything that I’ve learned since that ‘Scenes’ album has just exponentially grown, so it’s a much bigger scale. So if you like that ‘Scenes’ album at all, I think this one will be right up your alley.”
In a momentous reunion, Marty Friedman took the stage with MEGADETH for the second time in six months, captivating the audience at the Wacken Open Air festival in Wacken, Germany, back in August of 2023.
The accomplished guitarist graced his former band with his presence, delivering a stellar performance of four unforgettable songs: “Trust,” “Tornado Of Souls,” “Symphony Of Destruction,” and “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due.” The crowd was electrified by the nostalgic melodies and the undeniable chemistry between Marty and his fellow bandmates, creating a truly memorable experience for all in attendance.
MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine teased Friedman‘s appearance ahead of the Wacken performance, writing on social media: “Wacken! Make sure to head over to the faster stage. We have a special surprise for you. You’re not going to want to miss it.”
Prior to Marty’s reunion with MEGADETH at Wacken 2023, the last time Marty Friedman joined his former band on stage was during their historic performance at Tokyo, Japan’s renowned Budokan in late February. Amidst the band’s momentous show, Friedman made a thrilling appearance on stage, adding his extraordinary talent to three exceptional songs: “Countdown To Extinction,” “Tornado Of Souls,” and “Symphony Of Destruction.” The audience at the Budokan was treated to a mesmerizing display of musical prowess as the iconic guitarist reunited with his former bandmates, leaving an indelible mark on the memorable event.
