Dragon's Kiss

Dragon's Kiss is a memorable solo debut on which Marty Friedman vividly drew, with guitar, not only neoclassical, gorgeous fast picking but Eastern, distinctive resonance and deeply song-minded melody. Released on Shrapnel Records in parallel with his work in Cacophony with Jason Becker, it gave a vivid shock to the 1980s guitar scene with its outstanding technique. The playing’s technique is truly gorgeous, yet in each of its phrases a distinctive, strong emotion particular to him firmly resides. From the power of the speeding opener “Saturation Point” and the drama of “Dragon Mistress” to a cut like “Evil Thrill,” every song is engaging, while cuts like “Forbidden City” and “Namida (Tears),” evoking Japanese sentiment even this early, convey the work’s fullness. His own exotic scale sense is already in full bloom. A record on which the songs, by no means merely stringing together guitar showcases, have a rich flow of sure tension and release. A musical character distinct from the likes of Yngwie Malmsteen is vividly set forth. A sharp yet expressive solo debut that defined his later style — the origin of an unmatched guitarist here.