Ukrainian born Vitalij Kurrij is consistently at the top of the keyboard player polls worldwide having been involved in some of the most finest progressive/neo classical albums of recent years from acts such as Artension and Ring Of Fire. In addition to these band works, Vitalij has had a very prolific solo output and his new album Glacial Inferno marks his fifth solo adventure to date and second solo release on Lion Music following 2005’s “Forward & Beyond”. The new solo album sees an extremely powerful line-up of Vitalij with Michael Harris on guitar, and the former Malmsteen/Ark, rhythm section of John Maccaluso on drums and Randy Coven on bass.

“Glacial Inferno” is being released as a limited double pack of just 2000 units with Vitalij’s latest band project release “Revenge”, which until now has been unavailable outside Asia. As with “Glacial Inferno”, ”Revenge” sees Vitalij teaming up with American guitarist Michael Harris.

On the new album Vitalij comments “The aim of the album was to express myself musically and compositionally in the best possible way to make my friends and fans enjoy it and relate to it, as well as to grow further as an artist and composer/instrumentalist and producer”.

After listening to this album for a number of weeks I can say that lovers of neo-classical, progressive hard rock and instrumental music in general will be in for a real treat if they pick up this album. Sonically it’s a pleasure to listen to and performance wise it’s jaw dropping.

The album opens with” Symphonic Force” which goes straight for the neo-classical jugular. Virtuoso guitar and keyboard playing dance around each other, sometimes meeting in the middle, sometimes going off on a tangent but always being supremely melodic. This track has everything form drama, excitement, tension and release. What a way to start the album.

“Liquid Rain” blends tense classical phrases with a gently progressive feel. There is some glorious drumming gluing it all together and a wonderful breakdown in the middle with a stunning keyboard solo. As the song progresses we get a gorgeous guitar solo, which sounds even more impressive, thanks to the wonderful chord changes in the backing.

“Fire In The Sun” begins with a delicate classical solo introduction but soon bursts into life with a galloping rythmn.there is superb unison keyboard/guitar phrases and the song has a great sense of drama thanks to some clever time changes. At the latter half on the song there are some fantastic call and response keyboard and guitar trade offs as the song gets denser and heavier.

“Divided Horizon” is built on a rock solid rhythm, which seems to drive this song along. There is dazzling technique on display as Kuprij and Harris match each other note for note. The song leaves its main melody behind and explores some dark and heavy progressive moments before taking its foot off the gas and getting moody with a cool and unpredictable guitar solo.

“Glacial Inferno” has a sumptuous opening, which gives Randy Coven (bass) space to show off his melodic chops. The track develops into a monstrous guitar groove allowing the keyboard to subtly enter the fray. This track features some virtuoso solos from both guitar and keyboard, which will pin the listener to their seat.

“Dancing Flame” is an intriguing track where bass, keyboards and guitar weave exotic lines around each other. It’s an intoxicating mixture of unusual melodies and sophisticated playing.

“Forgive” is an enchanting solo keyboard song, which dazzles in its simple beauty.

“Dying To Live” is full of drama and melody. It builds to a dark and explosive climax helped by the drums picking up the tempo

“Burning Ice” is a surging neo-classical romp. It’s full speed ahead straight from the off. The players have kept plenty in reserve as they go fro broke at breakneck speed, even John maccaluso gets a few bars for a solo drum break. A new flavour is introduced as a superb bluesy guitar solo jumps out of the mix.

“Theme By Albioni” is a solo keyboard track and is also a European bonus track. It pays homage to the timeless classical melody loved my millions. Vitalij plays it straight but embellishes the music with some beautiful flourishes.

“Revenge” (bonus album) is simply a neo-classical masterpiece. For those people brought up on album such as Yngwies “Odyssey” and “Trilogy” this album will send them to rock heaven. There are stunning performances from Joe Lynn Turner, Dougie White and Goran Edman and more. Every track is a corker and full of excitement and clever composition.

This release is a musical triumph and the inclusion of the bonus “Revenge” album in the limited edition release makes it an essential purchase. The whole package has something for everyone as it is not just a fabulous keyboard album but also a stunning guitar album and to top it off you have the vocal tracks on the “Revenge” bonus c.d.Muiscally its very accessible and it’s an album you can put on at any time. It’s not one of those releases where you have to be in the mood before you give it a spin.

All in all a fantastic release which will keep rewarding the listener time and time again.

Let us know your views on 'Glacial Inferno/Revenge'

Track Listing

Glacial Inferno

Symphonic Force
Liquid Rain
Fire In The Sun
Divided Horizon
Glacial Inferno
Dancing Flame
Forgive
Dying To Live
Burning Ice
Theme By Albinoni

Vitalij Kuprij’s Revenge

Burning My Soul
I Don't Believe In Love
Into The Void
Revenge
Just Another Day
J. Haydn-Excerpt From Sonata In E Minor
Classic War
Emperor's Will
Follow Your Heart
Stand Up And Fight
Let The Future Unfold