You always knows what lies in store for you with each new release by
David T. Chastain, and his 2007 solo effort,
Countdown to Infinity is the perfect example -- guitar pyrotechnics from beginning to end. As a veteran shredder,
Chastain's instrumental prowess has certainly wowed many a fellow metal guitarist over the years (specifically, those who favor precision over feel). And with
Countdown to Infinity,
Chastain turns back the clocks with an unmistakably ‘80s-sounding slice of instrumental metal (à la such guitarists as
Tony MacAlpine's and
Greg Howe's shred-heavy releases for Shrapnel Records). While
Chastain lets his fingers fly "("Attack of the Mechonrites,"" "Demonic Harmonic Justice Lullaby," etc.), he also focuses on creating metallic grooves as well ("Hands of Time," "Victim of the System," etc.). If you're looking for vintage-sounding shred metal,
Countdown to Infinity will not disappoint. ~ Greg Prato