GIUTINI PROJECT
III
Frontiers Records 2006
www.frontiers.it

What’s the 4-1-1?
Former Black Sabbath singer teams up with Italian guitar master Aldo Giuntini for his latest creation.

Genre
Hard rock / metal

The Good
Killer guitar runs and powerful melodic vocals command the opening track “Gold Digger.” Rapid-fire chugga-chugga riffs run rampant on “Not Connected.” Martin’s vocal peaks and valleys prevail on the chorus. I never heard Martin when he was in Sabbath, but he has a great sound and style that I would liken to a mix between Don Dokken and Ronnie James Dio. Dark tones and themes are the center of “Que Es La Vida.” There’s a slow build-up with the verses that eventually lead to Martin flexing his range during the songs climax. “Fool Paradise” comes at you fast and heavy, while “The Vision” takes you on a steady journey.

Aldo Giuntini is no different than any other guitarist when it comes to showing off, so it’s no surprise that on the instrumentals “Tutmosis IV” and “Memories in the Sand” is where he takes center stage. It more fancy finger work for Aldo on “Dysfunctional Kid.” Martin unleashes his anger to mimic that of his troubled subject. I’ll admit the chorus lyrics are a little cheesy, but you’ll be singing them later either way. “The Closest Thing to Heaven” travels back into dark territory with haunting vocals and driving riffs. Aldo lays down a sweet speed metal solo.

The Bad
Nothing

The Verdict
Classic metal is alive in well in the fingers of Aldo Giuntini and the throat of Tony Martin.

Did You Know?
Giuntini began his career in the 80s when he founded the band Cryin’ Earth.

Rating: out of 5

--George Dionne