Marty Friedman‘s presence in the world of music, the world of guitar, and Japanese pop culture is mystifying, bizarre, and nothing short of inspiring. From his groundbreaking beginnings with Cacophony, alongside the legendary Jason Becker, to his pivotal role in propelling Megadeth to its peak of popularity with his breath-taking range and unorthodox melodic sense, Marty has solidified his status as a unique guitar icon.
Marty recently announced his latest solo album, “Drama” where he only slightly revisits the atmospheric elements of his acclaimed 1992 release “Scenes,” elevating them to a modern and exotic collection of epic, extravagant, and unapologetically emotional mini-symphonies.
“Dead Of Winter”, the second single from the album, features vocals by Chris Brooks from Like A Storm and marks Marty‘s first solo release featuring a vocalist. The music video stars Skylar Erna, an Internet personality and daughter of Sully Erna from Godsmack. Watch it below.
About the track, Marty had this to say: “The lyrics of ‘Dead Of Winter’ as well as the story in the video, both sum up the way I would like people to feel about my music in general– something that will be there to uplift you when the times are hardest and give you a tangible jolt of positivity to last until life inevitably smooths out.”
Skylar and Sully Erna represent The Scars Foundation, a charity devoted to starting conversations about mental health to raise awareness about the issues facing so many people in our communities today.
With the rise of suicides, bullying, addiction, abuse, and so many other challenges, The Scars Foundation is dedicated to providing resources and tools to educate and empower people on a global level who struggle with these burdens.
Tracks like “Illumination” and “Mirage” transport listeners to captivating realms, evoking sudden tears and chills. The entire album spotlights Marty‘s mesmerizing melodies, game-changing arrangements, and heart-tugging motifs, even more than any of his previous work.
Recorded in Italy, where Marty had access to a treasure trove of vintage guitars along with his modern signature models, “Drama” is a pure delight for anyone who appreciates music that stirs emotions.
Pre-order “Drama” HERE.
