
Lars Eric Mattsson –
Earthbound
2005 Lion Music
His six-string
prowess is a force
to be reckoned with.
His discreet
phrasing plays
melodies that go
beyond any typical
shredding; where the
compositions follow
his playing at the
same time his
playing follows the
compositions, making
for a match of
guitar work that
makes Lars Eric
Mattsson’s ability
as a composer/songwriter
and arranger stand
out perfectly to
give his playing the
compliment of a
highly regarded
technical playing
that he brings to
the table, putting
his chops in a class
by themself.
Beside being a
record of soloing,
Mattsson brings
‘songs’ forth on his
latest ‘solo’ outing
titled ‘Earthbound,’
playing the full
blown metal crunch
of ‘From the Skies,’
‘Free Wind,’ and
even incorporating
the neo-classical
approach with
‘Shreadhead’ putting
the sound of his
operatic/conceptual
projects to the
forefront. Besides
metal chops, he
plays out emotion
with the ballad
titled ‘The Orchid,’
incorporates
mysticism on the
sitar on ‘Delhi,’
and adds flamenco
element on the
acoustic ‘Song of
the Woods,’
showcasing some
extremely versatile
playing. His point
of playing is
definitely for the
sake of the melodies;
no wanking here by
any means.
‘Earthbound’
breathes new life
into the whole solo
guitar based genre.
Added: November 6th
2005
Reviewer:
Tommy Hash
www.ytsejam.com
Score:
   
Related Link:
Lars Eric Mattsson Link
Ytsejam's Interview :
Here! |
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LARS ERIC MATTSSON
‘Earthbound’ Lion Music (2005)
www.lionmusic.com
Guitarists Lars Eric Mattsson
returns with his first all instrumental album in over 14 years. He’s
best known for fronting the excellent power metal band Mattsson and on
here he plays all instruments bar drums provided by the eloquently named
Eddie Sledgehammer. It is a true guitar album as well as there are
minimal keyboards and SFX used which make a change and it’s not all ‘see
how fast I can shred’ like many guitarists’ albums. Highlights include
‘ShredHead’ and the epic title track that really highlights the talented
playing of Mattsson. Nice mix of styles as well and it is an album you
can see yourself playing again in years to come.
***1/2
Jason Ritchie
www.getreadytorock.com
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LARS ERIC MATTSSON -
Earthbound
Lion Music
Release Date: 2005-11-01
by: ALEX REIS
Email:
alex@metalexpressradio.com
www.metalexpressradio.com
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The legendary Finnish Prog Rock veteran Lars Eric Mattsson has
blessed guitar fans with a brand new Instrumental Rock record,
Earthbound. After a 14-year hiatus, several side projects, and
more than a couple of releases of his main project, Mattsson, and
his latest Prog Metal opera, War, the shredder went
minimalist and took to the “Guitarist and Drummer” approach.
Earthbound has an overall Prog-ish feel, showing off all of
Mattsson’s magnificent playing. Drifting away from his neo-classical
roots, the album has a highly varied landscape, flirting with
everything form Oriental to Classical music and all things
in-between. There are plenty of heavy tracks in Earthbound,
but they are still melodic enough to keep the listener’s attention.
“From the Skies,” with its magnificent melodies and heavy riffs is
not really what you’d expect to hear in a Guitar album.
There aren’t enough words to express Mattsson’s playing.
Arpeggios fly off from his fingers in lighting fast speed and
stunning precision, and his sound is crisp and clear. In
Earthbound, you will find way more than a shredding exercise ...
it’s a stunning Instrumental experience. While not being polished or
overly produced, the album maintains a nice overall production
quality, with the guitars and drums upfront in the mix, but not
covering anything else; making the listening experience very
pleasant.
Some jazzy moments can also be found on Earthbound,
showing Mattsson in an eclectic mode. The title track, "Earthbound,"
although being mostly Neo-Classical in its essence, steps into Jazz
territory for a mood switch. Latin rhythms are also present within
the album’s soundscape, as can be heard in the soulful “Time Capsule.”
Clean guitars shine with gracefulness, and while not falling into
virtuoso territory, make for a nice melodic, charismatic feel. Your
ticket to the Asian continent is guaranteed within Earthbound
as well. Mattsson plays the Sitar on several tracks, and mixes
nicely Oriental passages with Progressive soundscapes such as in
“Delhi.”
Full shredding moments you’d expect from any Guitar album are
also present in Earthbound, and since it deals with Mattsson,
they feature a great Neo-Classical Finnish accent. Listen to
“ShreadHead” for Maestro Lars Eric Mattsson’s great virtuosity
show-up. If you are looking for something different from what you
usually expect in a Guitar album, or are a fan of the Prog Metal
master Lars Eric Mattsson, Earthbound is definitely worth a
spin. If there is such a thing as Instrumental Prog Metal Guitar
Rock, this is definitely it.
Visit Lars' Web site at
www.LarsEricMattsson.com, or the label's Web site at
www.LionMusic.com for more
info. |
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Mattsson, Lars Eric - Earthbound
(7,5/10) - Finland - 2005 |
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Genre: Instrumental Metal
Label:
Lion Music
Playing time: 43:36
Band homepage:
Mattsson, Lars Eric
Tracklist:
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From The Skies
-
Earthbound
-
Time Capsule
-
Delhi
-
ShredHead
-
The Orchid
-
Free Wind
-
Song Of The Woods
-
Closed Eyes
-
…Later
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Lars Eric Mattsson is one of those artists I’ve heard of,
but have never actually heard. From looking at his bio, he
is a busy man releasing albums with his own band, MATTSSON,
along with others such as BOOK OF REFLECTION. “Earthbound”
is only his second all-instrumental album, with the first,
“Electric Voodoo” (“The Exciter” in the USA), having been
released clear back in 1991.
Mr. Mattsson handles all but the drums on “Earthbound”
(those duties go to Eddie Sledgehammer – what a name!) and
it’s clear from the get-go that he possesses great
instrumental prowess. The guitar, though, is Mattsson’s
weapon-of-choice and he shreds with the best.
“Earthbound” runs the stylistic gamut, going from Rock to
Metal to Funk to World and many things in between. There are
many ethnic sounds throughout, with the appearance of a
Middle Eastern sitar and Spanish-influenced guitars. But
overall, this is best described as Instrumental Progressive
Metal.
The success of any instrumental album is based solely on the
composer’s compositional skills, since there are no catchy
vocal melodies to fall back on. The material on “Earthbound”
is well composed and varying in styles, making this a worthy
addition to any Instrumental Metal fan’s collection.
(Online February 3, 2006) |

www.metal-observer.com
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Earthbound
Lars Eric Mattsson
Lion Music
Reviewed by Adam Harrold
www.larsericmattson.com
Tracks: From the Skies; Earthbound; Time Capsule; Delhi;
Shredhead; The Orchid; Free Wind; Song of the Woods; Closed Eyes;
…Later.

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Debating about the merits of instrumental guitar music can be a
time-consuming exercise. The other day at RockSomething Towers
for example, a row about Ritchie Blackmore’s extended guitar
solo in Deep Purple’s “Lazy” lasted a solid forty-five minutes.
The argument had lasted so bloody long that the cows had not
only come home, but by that stage, had learnt to read, write and
defeat humans at Scrabble.
So yes, the technical ability of
Lars Eric Mattsson’s first instrumental album in fourteen years
could be raved about for the next week, but we’d still be
talking about arpeggios and scales and still have no idea as to
whether “Earthbound” is any good. And that’s the only thing that
really matters.
Now “Earthbound” might not be a modern representation of
classical music, it might not be a gift from Ra, it might not
even follow the rules that your music teacher sets you, but
nonetheless you’ll be wiping the dust off of that air guitar as
soon as you hear it. In fact so frantic have the air guitar
sessions been, that a set of wireless headphones had to be
purchased in order to riff through the night without fear of
self-strangulation.
Admittedly, as delicate songs such as “…Later” and “Dehli”
show, this isn’t all about going mad with an axe, but the
suitably-named “Shredhead” and the title track show Mattsson at
his electrifying best. There’s no doubt that with Satriani, Vai,
Malmsteen and even Marc Rizzo, that there’s a lot of this type
of music around, but Mattsson’s “Earthbound” deserves your full
attention. Besides, if you don’t get it now, there might not be
a follow-up for another fourteen years!
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RockSomething.com © 2005
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Lars Eric Mattsson - Earthbound (Lion Music) By: Joe
Florez
www.live4metal.com |
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Lars has made the rounds and
kept busy for at least twenty years playing guitar. After creating the
War project which was very extravagant, he decided to strip things down
just a bit to produce his solo instrumental album which is the first
since 1991. This is a two man team along with Eddie Sledgehammer who
handle absolutely everything without any outside artists. Anything
string related along with the keys is handled by Mattsson. Immediately,
you can tell that this is a less elaborate album than his previous works.
“From The Skies” carries a rather simple 4/4 pattern with some minor
drum trickery here and there, and Lars letting his fingers fly somewhat
as well. There are some odd effects that come into the song |
halfway through
that have a Steve Vai feel. The pacing moves around from mid paced to
rip roaring, but it’s definitely enjoyable and easy to swallow. The
title track is heavier, thanks to the guitars. There is more power in
there this time out and it sounds chunky, but at the same time the
soloing is filled with emotion. There are even moments of a classical
performance during the breakdown. What I like about this release is that
LEM doesn’t limit himself to just one style. He is versatile and likes
to take chances. “Delhi” is contains middle eastern influences set to
hard rock. It has a spiritual feel and is a relaxing number that is sure
to take the stress off once you get into it. “ShredHead” is exactly what
you would expect. You get a ton of notes crammed into a three plus
minute song that is fast, but performed with great efficiency and
contrary to what you might think, it doesn’t have the Yngwie flair or is
full of egoism. One song in particular that grabbed my attention was
“Closed Eyes” because it’s so strange to hear hard and 70’s era rock
blended with flamenco guitar work and funk added for good measure. To
some, it may sound like a train wreck, but to me it’s just flat out
interesting. I have to admit, I am very weary of instrumentals nowadays
unless you come from the school of Satriani, Vai or Malmsteen, but this
one kept me around for the duration. The compositions are much easier to
digest than some of his other work and I think that is the selling point.
The songs for the most part don’t drag out either. They are right to the
point and don’t contain too much filler. If you are looking for an
alternative, then this may be it.
www.lionmusic.com |
www.larsericmattsson.com |

MATTSON - War - CD - Lion Music - 2005
review by: Ignacio Coluccio
www.maelstrom.nu
If Ayreon were to form a prog / power band, I'm pretty sure Mattsson would be
similar to the result. Lars Eric Mattsson is a Finnish shredder, so expect
full-blown technicality, lots of long solos and also strangely good, weird
melodies. War is his eighth album, and third under this name, so the experience
comes out in the songwriting a lot.
The center of Mattsson's music is, yes, the guitar playing. And oh, damn, can he
play. From weird rhythm patterns to ultra fast shredding, he does it all in a
unique way. Weirdly, the keyboards (also played by him) are impressive and add a
lot of professionalism to the music. Compositionally, all the songs are complex
enough without turning into wankery, so that's a definite plus. While the vocals
are mostly power-metallish, the instrumentation is mostly related to progressive
metal and rock, sometimes stepping in Ayreon's retro-progressive zone.
If there's one thing to change in War, it's its vocalwork. Just like in Arjen
Lucassen's band Ayreon, Mattsson hires guest vocalists to sing in his albums.
Most of them are amazing, but some are dull and sometimes even unnecessary.
Thankfully, they don't detract from the album all that much.
If you can get past some of the vocalists, War is an impressive record by an
impressive instrumentalist, and a must for fans of pompous, bombastic music.
(8.7/10)

Mattsson – War
2005 Lion Music
Returning to the
proto-symphonic
metal format that
Malmsteen and Rising
Force had created
years ago, Mattsson
and Co. have created
an elaborate album
of guitar shredding,
neo-operatic
soundscapes, and
progressive metal
arrangements that
bring to light the
musical endurance
created by the
forerunners of this
genre.
The project of
axeman Lars Eric
Mattsson, ‘War'
features and vocal
cast of Bjorn
Jansson, Mark Boals,
and Irene Janssen
among others, not to
mention keyboardist
extraordinaire
Vitalij Kuprij
tickling the ivories
among many other
musicians providing
their presence on
this record.
Musically ‘War’ is
filled with intense
musicianship filled
with everything from
Rhapsody/Ayreon
relevant cuts such
as ‘Your Dream’ and
the extended ‘War
Concerto Suite’
where there is the
high influence of
various ‘rock
operas’ balanced
with neo-classical
arrangements, where
of course there is
quite a bit of
musical
interpretations that
fill the record with
soloing and
passionate
improvisation.
However there are
moment of more song
related approaches
such as the dark
‘Deep in the Shadows’
and the balladry
found in ‘A
Dreamer's Lullaby,’
where Mattsson’s
Strat shines out a
glistering blues
approach, marking a
more down to earth
loom towards
technical metallic
pop glory. All in
all the melodic
stance with the hard
driving musical
approach is fitting
to the album’s
concept, for which
the title conveys,
kind of scary when
you think about it
in this day and age,
but, what better way
to express it than
through the musical
mindset of Lars Eric
Mattsson.
Added: October
23rd 2005
Reviewer:
Tommy Hash
www.ytsejam.com
Score:
    
Related Link:
Lars Eric Mattsson Link
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Mattsson: War
Lars
Eric Mattsson is one of
Finland's best guitar players
who has been active in the music
business since 1985 playing on
lots of albums and releasing
solo discs as well. He goes by
his full name when he puts out
solo releases, and uses just the
Mattsson handle when he combines
the services of vocalists in his
recordings. His solo albums are
more on the instrumental
spectrum utilising lots of
technically advanced guitar
solos with complex harmonies,
whereas with Mattsson he
explores a more defined and
unique style of music. His
guitar playing shows restraint,
allowing the vocalists to
deliver the lyrics effectively.
War is Lars Eric
Mattsson's third album under the
Mattsson moniker and it combines
plenty of different vocalists'
impressive work. This is a
strictly "non-fictional vocal
opera" featuring Lance King (ex-Balance
of Power, Pyramaze), Mark Boals
(Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of
Fire), Irene Jansen (Star One,
Ayreon), Andre Vuurboom (ex-Sun
Caged), and Bjorn Jansson (Tears
of Anger, Imaginery). The only
guest musician on the album is
Vitalij Kuprij adding in some
exceptional keyboard solos on
half of the tracks. Lars Eric
Mattsson, on the other hand,
plays all guitars, bass, and
keyboards (except the solos
recorded by Kuprij) with
impressive results. Special
mention goes to his keyboard
work: Mattsson employs samples,
genuine sounding orchestral
synths (though there is also a
real orchestra on one track) as
well as a multitude of quirky
sounds to add more atmosphere to
the songs. Eddie Sledgehammer
and Yoshi Watanabe provide the
drum and percussion rhythms
through the album.
As the title reveals, the
album is about the shortcomings
and atrocities of war with
references to the crisis in the
Middle East. In this respect, it
could be likened to Kamelot's
The Black Halo, as it also
shares a similar lyrical theme.
Mattsson's lyrics are deep and
thought-provoking. There are
some haunting lines that will
stick to your mind right on the
first listen, such as "In
this war no one wins!" or
"Open your eyes and take a look
around/ They are feeding you
with lies" on the tracks
"This is the End" and "Requiem"
respectively. On the musical
front, this could be Mattson's
most ambitious work in his
recording career. It is
intensely heavy and dramatically
emotional. The album encompasses
a wide array of influences, such
as the Native American chanting
vocals in the intro of "Where's
Our Chance" sung by Irene Jansen
of Ayreon's The Human
Equation fame. The song
finds Jansen offering a rather
aggressive vocal performance,
only resembling her gripping
singing during the chorus. The
other track with Jansen is
completely different. It's one
of the two ballads on the album
with an emotionally charged
guitar solo that exudes a
melodious stream of riffing and
phrasing.
Lance King, with whom
Mattsson worked before, appears
on "Your Dream". Though not the
strongest piece on the album,
Vitalij Kuprij's keyboard solo
is breathtaking. Kuprij once
again explores a million sounds
and his work often collides with
Mattsson's elaborate guitar
solos through the album. Also
pay attention to the sitar in
the intro of this song. I'd like
King to cut loose a bit, but
maybe the song's context
wouldn't let him. He sings in a
rather monotone style. Knowing
his abilities in Balance of
Power and Pyramaze, I'd have
loved a more aggressive vocal
delivery regardless. The
relatively shorter cut "Deep in
the Shadows" has Mark Boals
behind the mic with Mattsson's
daugher Mikaela backing him up.
Without doubt, the album's
highpoint is the 10+ minute dark
masterpiece "Smoke & Mirrors"
sung by none other than former
Sun Caged singer Andre Vuurboom.
This must be his first recording
since his departure from Sun
Caged and what a voice! This
song is utterly dark,
rhythmically complex and
technically astounding. From
Vuurboom's killer voice to
Kuprij's keyboard work to the
unison instrumental firework at
the end, it stands head and
shoulders above the other
tracks, and 90% of any other
prog song I've heard all year.
Lars Eric Mattsson should
consider writing a whole album
with Vuurboom's voice in mind.
The two of them could really
take the prog community by
storm. However, we shouldn't
forget the longest song "War
Suite Concerto" which is the
most original track on the
album. The Astral Chamber
Orchestra is behind Mattsson
when he plays a nifty classical
piece over beautiful female
soprano vocals in the first half
of the track. Things then morph
into a glorious melodic metal
fury as Mattsson cuts through
the song with a thunderous
rhythm guitar attack that soon
melts into an impressive
instrumental break. Mattsson
also sings a few melodies here.
Granted he isn't as great a
singer as a guitarist, but the
lyrics he sings are really
effective. The mix and
production are crisp and the
songwriting is tight. This will
appeal to progheads who like
melodically rich music with a
wide variety of singers as well
as to fans of power metal bands
such as Kamelot, Angra, and
Rage.
Track Listing
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Where's Our Chance
-
Your Dream
-
Deep in the Shadows
-
Smoke & Mirrors
-
Dreamer's Lullaby
-
This Is the End
-
War Suite Concerto
-
Requiem
Added: August 6th 2005
Reviewer:
Murat Batmaz
www.seaoftranquility.org
Score:
   
Related Link:
Mattsson website |


Mattsson - War
One of the more prolific guitarists from Sweden, Lars Eric Mattsson has been
writing and releasing music under a number of various guises since the late
80's. 'War' is a I believe, the third album to bear the Mattsson band name,
following on from 'Another Dimension' in 2000, and 'Power Games' some three
years later. Unlike his solo albums which are generally more geared towards the
instrumental niche markets, Mattsson albums are full blown vocal affairs, this
particular tome being perhaps his most ambitious offering yet. Billed as a 'non
fictional rock opera', 'War' explores the socio-environmental state of Planet
Earth in 2005, and as song titles like 'Smoke And Mirrors', 'Where's Our Chance',
and 'This Is The End' recant, the conclusions it draws don't make for
particularly uplifting news. A diverse mixture of styles and moods pitched
somewhere between Symphony X and Ring Of Fire, 'War' boasts an impressive cast
of vocalists (Mark Boals, Irene Jansen, Lance King, etc.), with Mattsson himself
handling most everything else, save for a few telling keyboard splashes from the
master himself, Vitalij Kuprij. Given the weighty subject matter, it's no
surprise to find that the album is quite dark sounding at times, the neatly
interwoven progressive themes and angst ridden melodies meandering their way
through quite a variety of different sounds and tempos. It's not the easiest or
most immediate of albums to get into, but the more I listen, the more I think it
ranks as Mattsson's most accomplished, and as such, offers a good pointer
towards the way future releases ought to go. Refreshingly different. (D.Cockett)
Desiny Records

MATTSSON - War! (Lion Music, 2005)
This one first went into the CD player with some degree of trepidation -
what are you about to hear when the press release states that this is a
"non-fictional rock opera about the state of this planet we call the Earth"
and the writer (composer), producer, guitarist, bass player and most
keyboards are by a Finnish musician that you've never heard of!!
Lars Eric Mattsson is the Finn concerned and this album seems to have been a
labour of love with a great deal of thought, effort and variation put into
the concept.
Opening track "Where's Our Chance" starts as the album means to go on with a
Native American chant leading into typical Scandinavian guitar shredding.
"Your Dream" features a sitar intro and leads into a number with a
distinctive Alcatrazz feel to it.
Vocals are supplied by a mixture of vocalists including Irene Jansson
(Ayreon), Lance King (Balance of Power) and Mark Boals (ex-Yngwie) together
with ever present female backing vocals. These backing vocals add the extra
dimensions to a lot of the tracks featured. Keyboard solos feature the
talents of the mighty Vitalij Kuprij.
The highlight of the album is the epic "War Suite Concerto" which clocks in
at just over 14 minutes and is split into eight movements for want of a
better word. Lots of female chanting, acoustic guitars, tom toms,
orchestrations and yes quite a bit of shredding.
"Requiem" concludes an enjoyable album - "No innocence in this troubled
time."
Overall - a weird one but I like it!
****
Phil Berisford
Get Ready To Rock!
www.getreadytorock.com

MATTSSON
WAR
LION MUSIC (2005)
85%
Lars Eric Mattsson composed & produced this rock opera. It features well known
performer from bands like Yngwie Malnsteen, Ring of Fire, Star One, Tears of
Anger, Balance of Power,etc. The writing has been more than well done but the
main problem is the fact that it's not very catchy and the progressive elements
may sound complex for some listeneners. Also some songs are very long! This is
more music for musician if you know what I mean. Having said that, the execution
is perfect and it's easy to see that those guys are amazing talented musicians.
Big solos, tempo changes, etc..you got it all! Also the production is great, it
sounds very good. The orchestration is amazing and everything is at the right
place. We're talking about huge writing skills here. Amazing vibe! Fans of the
genre will love that record!
Patrick www.thedarkesthours.com

Who knows Lars Eric Mattsson? I think a lot of us still dont. Maybe is it useful
to write a little introduction about that man. Way back in 1985 he was discovered by Mike
Varney (Guitar Player Magazine and Shrapnel Records). From that point he joined a lot of
hardrock bands. After e few years he decided to form his own band and made several records
like Eternity(1988), No Surrender(1989) and his former one Another
Dimension(2000). After Another Dimension his biggest success till so far
he contributed on Warmth Of Wilderness, a tribute to Jason Becker and recorded
an album with AOR band Condition Red.
In 2002 Lars started working on the new Mattson album including vocalist Lance King
(Balance Of Power/Empire). His new album is called Power Games. I guess this
album is mainly made for people who like power metal, AOR, symphonic rock and hardrock.
Power Games opens with an somehow poppy intro guided with a synthesiser like Jean Michel
Jarre use to do a long time ago. When you are listening to Blind Faith, a sort
of melodic firework. On this one you can hear Mattsson's skills perfectly. Not only the
guitars on Power Games are played like only a master can do. The vocals on
this track are marvellous, it reminds me to Geof Tates Operation Mindcrime.
Fortunately Lance King got also another face, so dont worry. Its evident he
like to use his high pitch voice to release all his energy in his music. Back to Mattsson.
Hes a cool guitar player cause he is not always on the front in order to give his
band their useful space to be as one. His style is hard to compare with others, quit
original these days. listen for example to 'Beyond the Horizon - Guita Concerto no I', an
instrumental based on eastern melody's which you only can expect from
a man like Jason Becker. I think, his uniqueness is the reason this album is
even suitable for me even knowing I dont like this sort of music. For the the progs
and hardrockers amongst us who like Queensrÿche, Dream Theatre and Kansas, go to the
store and listen for your self.

Tracklist:
1.Open the Gate
2. Victim of Freedom
3. Blind Faith
4. Chained to My Pain
5. Bridge to the Past
6. Safely Through the Fight
7.Beyond the Horizon - Guita Concerto no I
8. Lead Me On My Way
Discography:
Eternity (1987)
No Surrender (1989)
Electric Voodoo (1991)
Lars Eric Mattsson's VISION (1992)
Astral Groove (1995)
Till The End Of Time (1997)
Obsession (1998)
Another Dimension (2000)
Project: Condition Red (2001)
Power Games (2003)
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Line-up:
Lars Eric Mattsson - Guitars, bass, keyboards,
Lance King - Vocals,
Eddie Sledgehammer - drums
Review from:
www.vampire-magazine.com
|

MATTSSON Power Games (Lion Music)
As is always the case, Lion Music presents another musical gem. Without a doubt this
label is the unofficial home of shred. However, Power Games is the most widely accessible
release yet from this label. Finnish guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson is the brainchild behind
Power Games combining masterful guitar work with an equally compelling performance on the
keyboards. The real treat here is American singer Lance King (Balance Of Power), who
delivers an amazing performance. His style, phrasing and range is so much like Geoff Tate
of Queensryche that it is scary. Mattsson is in fine form throughout. The guy can deliver
passionate playing like Satriani, out and out shredding like Malmsteen, yet still
maintains his focus on the song structure as opposed to guitar flash. Power Games consists
of eight melodic progressive metal songs with neo-classical leanings. Open The
Gate starts with keys building into a majestic prog-metal classic of a track. The
epic instrumental track Beyond The Horizon Guitar Concerto No. 1 runs
17 minutes plus and, although at first glance may look like an obvious over indulgence,
the track follows an Eastern theme which plays out quite well with brilliant
keyboard/guitar interplay. Taking cues from Malmsteen, Symphony X and Queenryche, Power
Games is an excellent listen.
Allan Grusie 8
Brave Words and Bloody Knuckles

POWER GAMES / Mattsson
Lion Music 2003
Review by The Atomic Chaser
1. Open The Gate
2. Victim Of Freedom
3. Blind Faith
4. Chained To My Pain
5. Bridge To The Past
6. Safely Through The Fight
7. Beyond The Horizon
8. Lead Me On My Way
The latest venture from guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson comes to us in the form of, 'Power
Games'. A meeting of two great minds is how I would describe it. 'Power Games',
features the explosive guitar power of Lars Eric Mattsson in perfect union with the
dynamic and powerful vocal prowess of Lance King (Balance Of Power/Empire). The end
result of this alliance is a recording that will stimulate your senses and leave your
imagination with a lasting impression. 'Power Games'' musical intensity comes at you from
all angles. From groove laden progressive movers like, "Victim Of Freedom",
"Chained To My Pain" and "Safely Through The Fight" to
instrumental variations of the third kind like, "Beyond The Horizon". The
talents of both Mattsson and King work very well together. Lance King's vocals breathe
life into Mattsson's diverse musical compositions giving each song its own charismatic
vibe. Its such a shame that of all the progressive acts that are out there a band
like Mattsson hasn't received the recognition that he truly deserves. If your
musical fix includes the likes of, Dream Theater, Symphony X or Fates Warning, you might
want to check out, 'Power Games' by Mattsson. You might just find yourself a new
progressive addiction. Thanks to Lars and Lance on a job very well done. -
The Atomic Chaser
Mattsson: Power Games
Listening
to the three Balance of Power CDs that Lance King sang on (Book of Secrets, Ten More Tales
Of
and Perfect Balance), I never noticed just how similar his voice sounds to Dream
Theater front man James LaBrie. But listening to Power Games, the most complex release yet
from veteran neoclassical guitarist, bassist and keyboard player Lars Eric Mattsson, the
comparison begs to be made. Granted, Mattsson's music can be classified as progressive
metal a lot easier than Balance of Power's progressive-tinged arena rock can. But Mattsson
-- the guy who runs Lion Music, which released Power Games -- knew what he was doing when
he signed up King.
Power Games features Mattsson playing everything except drums (deftly handled by Eddie
Sledgehammer, which has gotta be a stage name). And while Mattsson has used several
vocalists over the years, King is one of the best -- despite the LaBrie analogies. Many of
the eight tracks here are slick progressive metal, and while King makes the transition
well from Balance of Power to this kind of music, it is Mattsson's 17-minute instrumental
epic "Beyond the Horizon - Guitar Concerto No. 1" that will garner the most
attention. The sprawling piece is a testament to Mattsson's versatility on many
instruments.
King also appeared on Hypnotica, the first album from Empire - a melodic hard rock band
released by Lion Music in 2001 and featuring the likes of Don Airey and Rolf Munkes. For
some reason, though, King is gone from Empire's lineup on the recently released Trading
Souls. Here's hoping Mattsson keeps him around longer than just one album.
Added: April 4th 2003
Reviewer: Michael Popke
Score:    
www.seaoftranquility.com

Mattsson;
Power Games
Lion
Music
After
being discovered as a truly gifted guitarist in 1985, Swedish Lars Erik Mattsson has been
bursting out one hard rock/heavy metal album after another, either as a solo-artist or in
his bands Vision and Baltimore. Weve dealt with Mr. Mattsson on several occasions in
this webzine in the past when releases by Vision, Baltimore and even Condition Red
another of Lars Erik Mattssons projects - were released. And now hes back with
yet another solo-album, this time featuring Lance King of Balance Of Power fame on vocals.
Needless to say for those whove read through the entire archive of this ezine, or
even just the metal-part of it, that Lance King is one of my absolute favorite singers
within the current melodic metal-scene, and his band Balance Of Power is likewise, in my
opinion, perhaps the best melodic and progressive metal band to come around within the ten
last years or so. Anyways, Lance King is a good match for Lars Eriks guitar playing,
and he actually lifts this album beyond just being another guitar-solo-record. This
isnt anything a la Balance Of Power, though, as its less progressive, less
heavy and doesnt have anywhere near as wonderfully arranged background vocals, but
why shouldnt it, this isnt a new Balance Of Power album, but a new Mattsson
album, even though Id kind of wished it was the other way around. Overall, though,
this is a good album, and Mattssons guitar playing is as good as ever. (JJJJJJ)
Ane Erlandsen, Past and Present Music
Guitar Mania Review
Mattson Power
Games

Finnish guitar maestro Lars Eric Mattson returns with his most
prolific and powerful release to date. Power Games features Mattson teaming up with
vocalist extraordinaire Lance King, delivering an intense collaboration of highly melodic
progressive material.
Power Games kicks off with the free for all Open the
Gates; that mixes moodier tones with highly technical, progressive elements. This
sets the scene for the rest of the CD. All tracks except for the all instrumental
Beyond the Horizon showcase Lance King at the top of his game delivering
soulful vocal arrangements that are powerful yet full of emotion and feeling. King has one
of those silky smooth voices that is well suited to Mattsons over the top guitar
heavy compositions. One can hear the intricate melodies of bands like Dream Theater or
Fates Warning throughout all the compositions. Other influences include more mainstream
bands like Queensryche. Melodic sensibilities are showcased with an intertwining of sheer
musical virtuosity from both Mattson and King.
Further highlights of this CD include the all acoustic Chained
to My Pain where Mattson stretches out acoustically, providing a nice respite from
the more chaotic tracks that follow. Mattson really lets loose on the all instrumental
Beyond The Horizon, shredding through a wide range of textures and
styles that incorporate, neo-classical, jazz, free form fusion, power metal and straight
up rock. The final track on the CD Lead Me on My Way is a nice funky number
with some great use of the wah, wah icing on the cake if you ask me!!
Power Games is intense, progressive, melodic and full of life.
Mattson and King gel like a tight woven fabric to produce intelligent, complex music that
should rival todays best progressive offerings.
Guitar Mania
http://www.guitarmania.ca
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MATTSSON |
POWER GAMES |
LION
MUSIC (2003) |
85% |
Lars Eric
Mattsson is back with Power Games and the title is right cause is powerfull! Lance King
(ex-Balance of Power) is the singer on that record and let me tell you that it's an
amazing good news cause this man knows how to sing and I love is voice! Again you can
clearly hear the talent of Lars, this guy is a very talented musician. Also this is a very
strong release. The production is awesome! Good sound and also the writting skills of
those guys keep on improving every day! Blending progressive, power metal, metal and
guitar metal a la Satriani, Mattsson recorded Power Games, is best album to date in my
opinion and also ading Lance was a very good idea! Love it! And by the way, the artwork
feature the Montreal olympic stadium on it and I was very suprised to see that on an
Finland CD! Cool!
Patrick www.thedarkesthours.com |
MATTSSON - POWER GAMES
Lion Music 2003

After spending some time working on other projects (such as Condition Red, etc.) Swedish
neo-classical guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson returns to his own band for the follow up to
2000s excellent Another Dimension set. Much less overtly Malmsteenesque
than some of his earlier works, Power Games has a much moodier, more
progressive undercurent coursing through its veins. This time around Mattsson has enlisted
the services of former Balance Of Power vocalist Lance King (who replaces
Baltimoores Bjorn Lodin) to add that extra touch of class to proceedings, and
between them theyve cooked up a batch of songs which must rank as some of
Mattssons best work to date. Imagine a mixture of good Malmsteen, classic Fates
Warning, and TNT (especially Kings vocals), and youll start to get a mental
picture of the kind of sound songs such as Bridge To The Past, Open The
Gate, and Blind Faith are aiming at. Because the songs are more complex
and ambitious than ever before, Power Games does take a couple of spins before
it starts to take full effect but believe me, that initial investment is well worth
it! (D.Cockett) Destiny Records, UK, February Mail order catalogue
MATTSSON - POWER GAMES
Lion Music 2003

Guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson was first discovered Mike Varney (founder of
Shrapnel Records) and has been releasing albums since 1988, as well as being
a member of the band Vision. On this latest album as well as guitar
shredding he handles bass and keys, with ex-Balance of Power vocalist Lance
King and Eddie Sledgehammer (from the Manowar school of band member names!)
on drums. Opener 'Open the Gate' starts with a synth sounding guitar (shades
of Maiden circa 'Seventh Son') before heading off into a melodic metal
direction. Lance King's vocals on this sound similar to Queensryche's Geoff
Tate's, whereas on other tracks they have a more power/speed metal tone
similar to Gamma Ray. 'Blind Faith' has some tasty keyboard touches and a
catchy hook-filled chorus. 'Chained to My Pain' is a slower number with
subtle guitars (possibly mandolin?) overlaid with jazz-like percussion - not
what you'd expect! The epic instrumental 'Beyond the Horizon - Guitar
Concerto No. 1' takes centre stage with Mattsson really letting fly on his
guitar! There are keyboards interwoven into the mix as well, although this
sort of epic track won't be to everyone's liking. For those who a bit of
70's freeform form the closing track 'Lead Me On My Way' should do the
trick. Heavy riffing guitar, bits of free form guitar and a little bit of
Hammond organ all add to make this track another curve ball on this album.
Lance King's harmonised vocals nicely round off the track.
A varied and enjoyable power metal release, guitar fans and fans of Gamma
Ray/Balance of Power/Queensryche will like this album big time.
Classic Rock Newswire -
MATTSSON - POWER GAMES
Lion Music 2003

"Powergames" is the new album based around Finnish guitar player Lars Eric
Mattsson and Balance Of Power frontman Lance King. "Powergames" is a melodic
neo-classical power metal album full of delicious shredding, and catchy songs that at
times remind me of a cross between Queensryche, Dream Theater, TNT and Bad Moon Rising.
The first song 'Open The Gate' best examples this theory and has some really stunning
technical guitar work from Lars with Lance's vocals coming over like Geoff Tate from
Queensryche, a good start.This style is continued on the next song 'Victim Of Freedom'
only this track is more melodic, not too far from Yngwie Malmsteen or Mark Boals' Ring Of
Fire.
'Blind Faith' is a more mainstream melodic rocker, it is awesome and catchy and could have
come right off any TNT album, here Lance sounds pretty identical to Tony Harnell.'Chained
To My Pain' starts off with some fine Latin playing, this song is a melodic power ballad
in the Yngwie style and has some captivating lyrics. The epicness of Yngwie is taken one
step further with 'Bridge To The Past', a soaring pompus melodic piece that also reminds
me of Rainbow and Brazen Abbot.
I really loved 'Safely Through The Fire' which is perhaps my favourite track on
"Powergames". Again this is very much like TNT and has some cool orchestral work
and very hot guitar work, a totally brilliant song. Beyond The Horizon - Guitar Concerto
no 1' is an interesting concept that runs in at a breathtaking 17 minutes 11 seconds. It's
experimental, neo-classical everything really that is structured around a guitar
instrumental epic, there are even some pompy keyboards during the song.
The album ends with 'Lead Me On My Way' which has is quite funny and has a disco theme and
is something that you would perhaps find Jeff Scott Soto doing, Lance King could actually
become the next Jeff Scott Soto the way he's going these days, a very talented singer and
this song is great and catchy, again a bit TNT-ish with a disco funky edge.
So a good album that delivers what is expected, if you like TNT and Queensryche then you
will love "Powergames"
Nicky Baldrian
MATTSSON-Another Dimension
Track Listing:
1.Hell (3.54)
2.Crash and Burn (5.10) Guest Guitar- Patric Rondat
3.Dont Chain My Mind (5.11) Guest Synth Solo- Erik Norlander
4.Angel Blue (4.17) Violin - Ella Grussner
5.Burn the Witch (5.56) Keys - Par Lindh
6.Burning My Soul (5.28) Guest Guitar- Rob Johnson
7.Dont Lose Your Patience (4.02)
8.Another Dimension (5.52) Keys - Par Lindh
9.Road of Babylon (4.39)
10.In Both Ends (5.34) Keys - Par Lindh
11.Save Our Souls (5.14) K eys - Par Lindh
12.Memory Lane (4.48)
13.Wait for the Angels (4.42) Keys - Par Lindh
14.Cry No More (5.15) Guest Backing Vocals- Esa Pietila
Powerful, moving, melodic, progressive, and and over the wall impressive guitar playing
are just a few words to describe this stellar in your face guitar driven metal release!
That's even an understatement to the skill of this Euro guitarist! I just got this CD in
the mail from Lion Music and I was totally blown away! If your a fan of the Neo-Classical
/ Progressive Metal Genre or not you'll really love this CD. Don't get me wrong this isn't
a straight Neo release either, its just that it has lots of Neo-Classical touches to it.
"Another Dimension is also packed with shred and balls wall guitar playing.
That's the first thing you'll notice about Lars Eric Mattsson, his playing style is
massive! Whether its a million notes per second, soulful melodic solos, or down and
dirty metal riffing, this guy delivers the goods! If your a guitarist please do you
playing a favor and buy it! Even if your not, this CD was made for the true metal fan at
heart. Great lyrics and song writing and lots of catchy lyrics. Not to mention the
sound quality and mix of this CD is absolutely killer. Not many guitarists can handle the
production and mixing as well as this guy does. All instruments are clear and loud. I hope
you enjoy this CD just as much as I did reviewing. Its worth every cent! On with the
goods...
Track one "Hell" is a great name for this song because this song was written in
the utter depths of the pit of fire! Great guitar work, I love the main riff of the song,
it drives onward through out the whole track. Giving lots of power and mass. Also pay
attention to all the runs and fill in riffs through out the song. Great vocals Bjorn's
vocal have really developed though the past few rele |