On his solo debut, 2004's , longtime guitarist got to focus mostly on his fascination with all things Middle Eastern. But on his solo sophomore effort, 2009's , takes it to a whole other level. If you're a fan expecting a few extreme metal detours, you're out of luck, I'm afraid. This is an album of Middle Eastern sounds from start to finish -- in fact, you don't have to know diddly about extreme metal to appreciate this disc, just an admirer of authentic-sounding world music, evidenced by such standouts as or Impressively, pulls a and plays all the instruments here himself -- acoustic guitars, guitar synth, keyboards, drums, percussion, and such uncommon instruments as the baglama saz and a glissentar, as well as (along with another chap) providing vocals/chants. Although some consider extreme metal to be a one-dimensional style, proves that he's an exception to the rule, throughout . ~ Greg Prato