David Chastain is one of many
Yngwie Malmsteen clones to surface in the mid-'80s. Although his flashy, mock-classical soloing lacks the grace and excitement (not to mention originality) of
Malmsteen's,
Chastain's skill is admirable. On
Ruler of the Wasteland,
Chastain leads his band through a set of well-penned and fairly accessible heavy metal tunes with such dramatic titles as "The Battle of Nevermore" and "Angel of Mercy." Lead singer
Leather sounds like a female
Dio -- in a good way. Guitar geeks should stick with
Malmsteen, but more mainstream metal audiences will enjoy
Chastain's tough, song-oriented approach.