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Impellitteri first appeared to the world in 1987 with a self-titled EP and then in 1988 with its first release, Stand in Line, featuring well-known names such as Graham Bonnet on vocals and Chuck Wright slapping the bass. Relying on guitar shredding and virtuosity, Chris Impellitteri quickly became one of the most proficient and respected musicians of the scene, consistently releasing good albums with the band in the 90's, era which also saw my favorite effort by the band, Answer to the Master. After a lackluster effort in 2004 with Pedal to the Metal, the guitar virtuoso bounced back a few years later with the critically acclaimed Wicked Maiden.

So here we are, 6 years after, with the release of Venom, the ninth studio album in Impellitteri's career. With his longtime friend Rob Rock at his side, the guitar hero managed to refine his skills once again and deliver a solid piece of work. It is a well-executed effort that relies on a good balance between fast riffs, heavy passages, and even melodic, tuned-down performances. While songs like "Nightmare" and "Face the Enemy" offers a more mid-paced approach, "Rise" for instance delivers a more energetic and excited tune. It is Rob Rock, though, who absolutely steals the spotlights on this album. Efforts like "Empire of Lies", "Jehovah" and "Domino Theory" are perfect examples of his unique vocal lines, strong choruses and magnificent overall performance.

All of this, combined with quality songwriting, solid (yet simple) lyrics and high quality production, makes for an album that has substance and is deep in its own way. Although the band doesn't offer you a masterpiece or even an album that could possibly make your top 10 list this year, you should find in Venom a quality and honest piece of work. Longtime fans of the band, as well as fans of Heavy Metal/Shredding in general, will definitely give it two thumbs up.