by John Kindred
— Publisher —
Instrumental shredder, Toby Knapp, returns with the 4-track EP Merciless Regime on Shredguy Records.
Knapp drops three new songs inspired by his musical writing approach from his youth while also dedicating these tracks to Jeff Beck. The EP also includes a cover of UFO’s “Dance Your Life Away,” which was originally released on a 2000’s era Michael Schenker tribute album.
So what can one make of Merciless Regime?
Thrashy, flashy and speedy. Knapp drops his foot down on the metallic accelerator and takes listeners off to the unexplored lands that exist within his mind.
Plenty of melody is intertwined within the confines of each song. Each instrumental track provide listeners a palette of musical colors to immerse oneself within. All three songs feature concise driving rhythmic progressions, providing the sound bed for heavy guitar rhythms and soaring lead guitars.
To be honest another new instrumental song would have been preferred to the UFO cover song. Kenny Kilpatrick is not Phil Mogg. The redo has a shredy-vibe, a quicker step and Knapp rocks it from beginning to end.
Musically harkening back to another era when instrumental guitar records where all the rage. Toby Knapp continues to keep the dream alive. Showcasing his talents for music aficionados to enjoy and explore sonically.
Genres: Neoclassical Metal, Technical Progressive Metal
Line-up:
Toby Knapp (g)
Track List:
1. Delerium Hierarchy
2. The Law Of Malice
3. No Raid At Dawn
4. Dance Your Life Away (UFO Cover)
Hardrock Haven rating: 
(8 / 10)
