Carlos Lichman - Reviews

FIRESTORM Reviews!

"Carlos Lichman is a guitarist from Porto Alegre in Brazil. Firestorm is his debut album, although he has previously released a couple of EPs and featured on several other works. Firestorm is built around the impressive shredding of Carlos playing alongside (depending on the song) drummers Alexandre Olly and Sandro Moreira, bassists Leandro Berpo and Vinicius Rym, and keyboardist Paulo Miguel Bublitz. Carlos plays keyboards on 'Drug Dealers'. Also joining him on the album are a selection of other guitarists, most notably Kiko Loureiro from Angra. They add the odd solo here and there to back up Carlos' heavy thrash attack. Argentinean Pablo G. Soler, Italian Francesco Fareri and the American Jim Horne complete the line-up. This is an impressive instrumental album that doesn't follow the useful Yngwie Malmsteen or Satriani rip-off style. Carlos cooks up a fret-based storm with plenty of heavy metal power and beastly drumming in the background. He's undoubtedly a talented guy with ridiculously quick fingers and belies his relatively unknown status. Firestorm is surprisingly good stuff, but I'd really like to hear Carlos playing in a band with a good singer. I suspect the result could be something special. Check out... 'Key To The Shred City' - a few hints of old Metallica in there."

Rock Realms Web Site

"Em carreira solo, o guitarrista Carlos Lichman acaba de lançar seu primeiro trabalho. E o músico não poderia ter começado essa nova fase de sua carreira musical de melhor maneira. Em FIRESTORM, Lichman, natural de Porto Alegre, ficou livre para mostrar toda sua capacidade e ainda contou com a ajuda de diversos guitarristas renomados que fizeram com que o resultado final do disco ficasse realmente especial. Dentre os músicos convidados estavam o guitarrista Kiko Loureiro (Angra) e os músicos estrangeiros como o italiano Francesco Fareri, o argentino Pablo Soler e o americano Jim Horne. Precisão, criatividade e velocidade são os pontos mais marcantes desse álbum que revela o grande potencial de Carlos Lichman. Agora é esperar para ver o que o futuro guarda para o músico."

Revista Comando Rock (Brazilian Magazine)

"Brazilian’s Thrash metal virtuosist’s latest full-length “Firestorm” reprinted! Featuring drummer by Mental Horror, Rebaelliun and Sledge-Hammer Sandro Moreira and several guest axemen. It’s indubitable that a good deal of records of shredding guitar-players as well as typical not-solo-oriented metal bands is boring because it repeats something that others have already done and often better than the latter. But what about someone who has all the technical skills needed, excellent flavour in his musical recipe and is able to arrange compositions greatly? I mean, aggressive, multiform but groovy and bluesy on other occasions, and not like someone who is mechanically putting a serious of notes recorded in a corner to cite Robert Fripp? I think that with Carlos Lichman we have the best of the 2 worlds together. Pure art that will keep your attention raised from beginning to end. Today’s market's cruel: flooded by releases, the new inspired and talented lymph doesn't usually have many chances to stand out, does it?"

Pure Grain Audio (Canadian web site)

Porto Alegre's new talent offers an insight of his music vision to resurrect Extreme virtuosism through the latest "Firestorm"
And shredding for all...
-HELL-o Carlos, how are you doing? Can you write a short biography for those who still don’t know your career?
I’m a Brazilian guitarist; I have degree in music performance at the University of Porto Alegre in Brazil. My compositions are into Instrumental Shred Metal Style. I played in a band called Neverland and recorded some stuff (Wake Up The Dragons EP/2001) before the aforementioned solo debut, e.g. "Planet Rock" (Single, 2003) and "Intense Guitar Playing" (EP, 2005). However, my playing can be also audible on "Celebrando Mozart" Live DVD from the year 2006. In 2007, I recorded my debut album called "Firestorm". I played most guitar parts and keys on one track. In that album, I recurred to two drummers (Alexandre Olly, Sandro Moreira), two bassists (Leandro Berpo, Vinicius Rym) and a keyboardist (Paulo Miguel Bublitz). I can say they are the "less known" part of the stuff. The "better known" are guest guitar players: Kiko Loureiro (Angra), Pablo G. Soler (Neoclassical shredmaster from Argentina), Francesco Fareri (Italian Shred wizard) and Jim Horne (Jazz/Fusion guitar virtuoso from the USA). Firestorm is larded with shredding tones. However, here are also some quiet fragments like Thoinot Arbeau's "Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie (Reincarnation)" that can make you think of Renaissance dances. It is played in calm and minor mood, so it gets a great contrast in comparison to the remaining tracks. The third track "Key To The Shred City" was recorded in honour of two shred giants - Tony MacAlpine and Marty Friedman - as they are two of my greatest inspirations. Yes, there were such tracks like Friedman's "Forbidden City" and MacAlpine's "Key To The City". However, this piece of music is performed in definitely different style than compositions from Marty's "Dragon's Kiss" and Tony's "Maximum Security". Anyway, it is one of the most melodic tracks with powerful rhythm. I’m a chap who attacks your ears with rhythmic lead parts, numerous shred quips and some atmospheric fragments as well. I showed you a complex architecture of the shredding genre as I depicted it on the CD. The album's title reflects my music as a stormy, furious, fiery and belched out stuff. People usually say that "Firestorm" is a great load of decent Shredding power and it is one of the TOP SELLERS on Guitar 9 Web Site (N°1 in March and April 2008). Last May I released FIRESTORM GUITAR METHOD, a new method based on FIRESTORM CD licks. Firestorm album can be ordered in Guitar Euro Shop (France), Boosweet Records (USA), Guitar 9 (USA), Fret Tunes (Australia), Die Hard Records (Brazil) and Music Gate Brazil (Brazil). Below, you can read my discography:
Rock Soldiers Vol.14 - Compilation Cd (2009)
Carlos Lichman – Firestorm Guitar Method (2008)
Carlos Lichman – Firestorm (2007)
Hurricane Metal Fest – Hurricane Metal Fest
Vol.1 Compilation Cd (2007)
Programa Contramão – Contramão (Compilation Cd)
Centro de Artes Recitatus – Celebrando Mozart (Live DVD / 2006)
Carlos Lichman – Intense Guitar Playing (EP / 2005)
Carlos Lichman – Planet Rock (Single / 2003)
Neverland – Wake Up The Dragons (EP / 2001)
I’m endorsed by Giannini Strings and Basso Straps.
-When did you start playing guitar and who were your teachers? Are you self-taught?
I began to play at the age of 14. I studied with Paulo Ross during 4 years (Classic Music). During few years I was self-taught studying instructional videos and guitar methods. After Neverland breaks, I studied with Edilson Avila (Fusion Style) and Marcos De Ros (Shred Style). Of course, when I was self-taught I studied many styles and guitarists always keeping the heaviness. In 2005, I went to University of Porto Alegre in Brazil and took my music degree in December 2007.
-Do you think a guitar virtuoso like you always does need to know how to read notes or is it enough to have trained ears?
Nowadays, everything is very important to improve your playing, I coach my students to learn more and more about music. It’s necessary to read notes as well as to have a trained ear. To know about music theory, to understand how scales and chords work. I have been studying since I was 14 years old and I still learn more new things. It’s very important to practice with a band, to make gigs, to record demos. I mean it’s important to live music!
-Did you write all of the songs of your latest album or did you get ideas from the drummer, the bass player and the other musicians as well? How are your songs created? Do you always start from a riff or do you jam and keep the best parts of a song?
I am used to writing everything alone at home. My songs are the reflection of my studies. Each song is a different story of my life. For example:
- “Speed Rules” and “Shred Dogs” are totally influenced by Rusty Cooley’s album as instructional methods.
- “Key To The Shred City” is influenced by Japanese minor scale one of the scales most used by Marty Friedman.
- “Just Rock It” is a Blues/Rock song influenced by Brazilian guitar master Edu Ardanuy.
- “Belle Qui Tìens Ma Vie” shows my passion for old music and in my next works, I will record more and more songs in this style.
- “Drug Dealers” was created when I was studied “The Book of Jason Becker”.
- “Endless” shows some riffs in Impellitteri’s style and studio’s effects as Tape Reverse. When I was studying “home studio’s production’ in the university I enjoyed this effect a lot.
- “Intense Guitar Playing” is a mixing of Vinnie Moore and Steve Morse’s influences. I really like their way of playing.
- “Beyond The Universe” is the last song of Firestorm and this music show lot of influences as Gilbert, Satriani, Cooley and Petrucci. In the end of the song, Alexandre Olly (drummer) told me and idea to play the song in 7/4 and not in 4/4 as in the beginning.
I’m not saying that I don’t accept other guys’ opinion but I usually work alone. The main ideas come from my seven string guitar.
What are the differences with your previous records?
They are always different in all details. I used to practice more and more, I search for new and modern ideas; different effects and distortions, new ways of tuning. I never record the same kind of music, I always try to show some thing new to the listeners, improving my music, not just as player but as an artist.
-Who chose the front cover? And will you ever release an album with sung compositions? Don’t you ever feel the need to add vocals to one song?
I chose every detail in the CD, the number of track, the pictures, the studio, the musicians to participate. When I decide to record something, everything is chosen by me. It’s my name on the record. I can’t do anything just to record more CDs. Some people asked me the same question. But I’m working in a new band with vocals, not a solo record with vocals but in a real band without guest players. Of course, I’m working on new compositions for a new instrumental solo album but you know the composition process takes much time.
-How did you convince all those guitar heroes to participate as guest musicians in your latest record? Did you have to pay them or was it just because you’re friends with them? Many people want to know if you will appear in their next records. Haven’t you got any invitation so far?
Many of them have been my friends since I decided to work as a solo musician. They know my work and how I respect them as musicians and people. We have the same dream as guitarists, the same influences and it’s an honour to have them on my record. I worked with guys that I really like!! I didn’t receive any invitation to participate on their record but I’m always ready for this.
-Have you ever kept any clinic at music institutes? Do you have students?
Yes, I used to make workshops and I teach in the major music institute from Porto Alegre city, called “Estação Musical”. I teach 30 students per week. Now, I believe you understand why I don’t have much time to organize my ideas but it’s great to be very busy with music. I teach different style as Rock, Blues, Metal and Pop.
-In Europe almost all guitar heroes disappeared after grunge metal came out. Is the Brazilian scene still alive? What South American axemen do you recommend and esteem the most?
Luckily guitar heroes haven't disappeared here but you have more places to play if you have a band with vocals as Malmsteen and Impellitteri. There are guys as Frank Solari, Marcos De Ros, Pablo Soler around that used to play alive with their instrumental works. I recommend two players: First one: Edu Ardanuy. In my opinion, he is the best guitarist from Brazil. He has great technique, feeling and melodies. Second one: CJ from Brazilian Hard Rock Réus Anjos. This guy rocks!!! A great friend and player as well!!
-What would you advice a young boy or girl who wishes to become a professional guitarist? Which are the mistakes to avoid and what is necessary besides practice?
I can say: “Play what you like, believe in yourself, practice all time, learn music all time. If you like metal, study metal! If you like classic music, study classic music! Be different, because the world needs different players! Find your own way of playing! Discover your goals!! And never forget who you are. Keep your head up high!!
-How many hours do you practise everyday? What do you do besides playing?
I practice and study all the time. I don’t have any other job. I’m a full-time musician! I’m a professional guitarist, music teacher, composer and producer.
-Is it necessary or better to have long thin fingers to play a guitar better? Do you use elastics when you sleep to keep your fingers stretched? Can you play other instruments?
I don’t believe that you need to have long thing finger to be a better guitarist. The only secret is to practice more! I never used anything to keep my finger stretched and I don’t think people use to do this! (I swear I personally know a professional guitarist who does it/Note of Markus G.) Yes, I play acoustic guitar, bass and I took some piano lessons years ago but I don’t practice at the piano.
-Is the lineup of your band stable now or can we say you decided it to call it Carlos Lichman because the other members will always be session members?
As a Metallica’s song, it’s SAD BUT TRUE. When I decided to be a solo musician it was because I could find players minded oriented like me. Since I was a child I knew what I wanted to be, the other guys wanted to be doctors and lawyers. I don’t like to change the line-up as you can see on the CD, Sandro Moreira and Vinicius Rym played with me in the EP “Intense Guitar Playing” but during the Firestorm recording sections they were very busy with their bands and were just able to record a few songs.
-What about your live activity? What was the best concert you ever played and would you be able to play a 15-minute solo live like Yngwie Malmsteen?
I believe my best concert was with Megadeth Cover in 2005. We played Megadeth’s songs all night long and as a solo musician and that was in an event called RS Guitar Concert in 2007. People can watch the videos on youtube. Yes, I’m able to play long solo guitars during a gig. It just depends on my mood!
-Are you able to play your compositions on stage exactly as on the CD or are there any changes? Do you play them faster or do you like to offer slightly different versions?
I recorded many guitars playing at the same time on the CD. To play exactly as on the CD, I need at least four guitarists on the stage. We usually play one guitar, bass and drum live, so it’s necessary to have some changes. I’m able to play faster than the original versions because I have improved a lot my speed picking but I prefer to play the original versions live.
-Do you prefer to listen to guitar heroes or do you feel it’s better to listen to Metal bands where solos are not frequent and not important so as to keep your songwriting original and devoid of influences?
Depends on the guitar heroes and the bands. You can be influenced by many players and bands but when you write a song it’s important to be original. It’s important to be different. I prefer old shred school and few guys from the new one. I listen to players as Randy Rhoads, Macalpine, Friedman, Gilbert, Becker, Impellitteri, Fareri, Soler, Horne, Ardanuy, Loureiro, Michael Angelo and new guys as Alex Laiho and Gus G. When I listen to a band I prefer the old ones as Black Sabbath, Ozzy, Dio, Rush, Purple, Van Hallen, Maiden, Racer X.
-I know that many guitarists are jealous of their equipment and prefer to keep some secrets, but all of your fans are curious! So, how many guitars do you own, which is your favourite guitar, what amplification and effects do you usually use?
I just have two seven string guitars: an Ibanez 1527 (with Seymor Duncan super distortion pickups) and an Aria Mac (with Dimarzio evolution on the bridge and original Ibanez seven string on the neck), I have boss pedals (Metal Zone, Digital Delay) and Tube Scream from Ibanez. But I need to confess I prefer the distortion from Crate blue voodoo amp and Laney GH100L. They are the best in my opinion. I used Laney in the rhythm guitars of “Firestorm”. Like I said I’ve been endorsed by Giannini Strings since 2005. I used Giannini Strings 0.10 for seven string guitars live and in the studio; they’re the best strings I have been using in the last years! Very long life, great tuning, always a brillant sound and they are perfect for every kind of playing from Jazz to Metal! There are so many models that you can choose to be the best for you! And I’m endorsed by Basso Straps, the best strap ever, very confortable; I used it during my study sections, live performances and recording sections! I definitely recommend them!
-Do you like fretless guitars, downtuned guitars or double-handled guitars or are you a traditionalist or you simply don’t need them?
I prefer seven strings with 24 frets! I can play high sounds as well as low ones for metal tunings they are the best! But I would like to have a Jackson Randy Rhoads model.
-Have you received any interesting offers from labels to re-release your discography and distribute it worldwide? Is there anything you would like to change in your old compositions?
I received some interesting offers for a distribution from the label Die Hard records. Nowadays digital distribution is the best way to get known. Internet helps independent artists to get known. Well, as I said I’m able to play my songs faster and more aggressive than the original ones. But they represent a specific moment of my life and I keep them as I recorded them!
-Do you have any videoclips online or in the works?
Yes, people can watch some live performances as well instructional videos of mine on Youtube, but I don’t have any official clip to-date.
-Carlos, thanks for your time. If you need to add more details, information or tell your fans about updates and new plans, feel free to take all the place on this magazine you need.
Well, first I would like to thank RockMetalBands.com for the opportunity and support; and to all the guys that will read the interview, you can check the news on my web site www.carloslichman.com to know more about my future releases and if you are interested in my CD “Firestorm” you have six ways to order the CD from my web site. Choose the best one to you! See you! Take care!

Rock Metal Bands (Italian web site)

"Carlos Lichman is the name of Brazilian guitar wizard able to offer world class, technical guitar moves to the extreme. A real master, a genius is how I'd like to define him, I received his latest output ''Firestorm'' a few hours ago and I'm totally impressed with the final result. This inhabitant of Porto Allegro brings on shred tactics, well to be honest he belongs to my favourite list of all time great shredders from now on. Never knew of all the magical things he's capable of, Carlos leaves me behind with stupefaction. As owner of a degree in music performance at the University of hometown, CL played once in a band called Neverland and brought out some stuff as singles, EP's, DVD and of course his almighty latest effort 'Firestorm'. To work out the entire album he got company of some guest musicians such as a pair of drummers, two bass players, a keyboardist and a few prestigious axe wielders that shred on the world upside down, Kiko Loureiro (Angra), Pablo G. Soler (Guitar magician from Argentina specialized in Neo-Classical techniques), Francesco Fareri from Italy and from USA, Jazz/Fusion specialist Jim Horne fulfils the ranks completely. Mr. Carlos Lichman in charge for the most of the guitar parts (plus keys on 1 song)... I can't get enough of an album like this. Inspired by his own favourite greats like almighty Tony MacAlpine and Marty Friedman, this CD counts 9 instrumental compositions recorded in extremely good conditions... today is a day that simply can't go wrong for me. Hearing all those top notch songs make me feel a real satisfied bastard who like shred guitars since a couple of decades ago. Last Friday, I spoke to someone about the almighty US Metal compilation albums once released through Shrapnel Records by Mr. Mike Varney. That was in the early 80s and each one of these outputs had awesome guitar gods on board - I was hooked on it right on those days and I never want to let that feeling go. Till going down six feet below, my heart will pound for impressive guitar solos and cutting riffs for sure! Carlos Lichman's ''Firestorm'' opens with 'Speed Rules', a song loaded with magnificent tactics, it's been quite a while I heard an instrumental one like this. Fast, pure and detailed perfected with powerful riffing and breath taking solos - SUPERB! Even more power comes up with next song 'Shred Dogs' - partial lead guitar done by Angra's Kiko Loureiro... just another another thrill to me! 'Key To The Shred City (In Honor Of MacAlpine and Friedman)', I guess you'll get the picture already, right!? Carlos Lichman offers his talents on and on in a most elegant manner, check out 'Just Rock It', the one with a true Rocking feel. Guest guitar God Pablo Soler / Francesco Fareri shine brightfully on 'Drug Dealers' - speaking about a flammable, well fitted shred duo... you've got one right here. 'Endless' is one of my favourite ones for sure - it opens with a Classic, heavy riff and goes on amazingly - blasting powers, unique middle part, superb melodies,... do I have to go un further? This feast on shred guitar end with the song 'Beyond The Universe' in a way I call over-the-top! Since started with Metal To Infinity webzine we had the opportunity meeting a lot of great guitar players so far - each one has its own style of pulling strings which allows me to say that instrumental compositions still are so attractive to me. I don't give a damn while other people call shredding nothing but a big boring fact - if that's their opinion about pulling strings in a complete technical way, up to them. As for myself - ''Firestorm'' is a fantastic, world class album - full of power, energy, top notch skills - a real feast fulfilled with joyful moments including loads of pure Metal shred attacks taking my breath away! More info at: http://www.carloslichman.com/ or http://www.myspace.com/carlos_lichman An independent release that takes you by the throat!!! MY POINTS: 97 / 100

METAL TO INFINITE web site (Web Site from Belgium)

"Hi Carlos ! I still dig the album !! It’s a masterpiece and I’m enjoying it just like IOANNIS ANASTASSAKIS his Dispension Of Disbelief ! Both albums keep spinning through my mind and give me a lot of satisfaction ! Keep up the good work and let the music flow !! By the way, Firestorm was aired a lot of times in the past months"

Patrick De Sloover from Overdrive radio program

Brazilian guitar virtuoso Carlos Lichman makes no bones about his guitar style. One visit to his Myspace account reveals all: under Interests/Music is one word, Shred! And that Mr. Lichman does quite well on his debut Firestorm. His influences include Marty Friedman, Rusty Cooley, and Tony MacAlpine to name several. He's quick, sometimes heavy, but most often just plain aggressive (in a good way) in his approach. Lichman amazes on blistering pieces like 'Shred Dogs,' 'Key To The Shred City,' and the monumental, if not self-indulgent, 'Intense Guitar Playing.' Without doubt, Lichman lacks neither talent or determination. However, neither does he lack redundancy. When he shreds, Lichman really shreds. But we've heard that before. Where Lichman delivers his best work is when the song composition tempers the fret fireworks. This happens in the middle of the album on much more versatile, pleasing and less repetitious 'Just Rock It,' 'Endless,' and 'Drug Dealers.' Special mention should be made of Lichman's maturity when inviting some noteworthy talent to assist him. This includes Argentinean guitarist Pablo G. Soler and Italian shredmeister Francesco Fareri, and American jazz fusion guitarist Jim Horne. Lovers of all things shred should grab Carlos Lichman's Firestorm. He can rip and roar with best, both past and present, giving them all and their arpeggios a run for their money. Very recommended!

Danger Dogs (Web Site From USA)

No, this is not a tribute to Earth Crisis's EP, nor does it have any connection to the defunct US Christian metalcorers. These 9 instrumental tracks for over 31 minutes are unreleased and come from the pen and the guitar of the Brazilian shredder Carlos Lichman. Although his self-declared influences are Jason Becker, Marty Friedman (particularly in "Shred Dogs", which sounds like an excerpt from "Holy Wars"), Tony Macalpine, Francesco Fareri, Impellitteri, Rusty Cooley, Stephan Forte, Marcos De Ros, Kiko Loureiro, Richie Kotzen, Vinnie Moore, Steve Vai (especially in "Just Rock it"), Sergio Buss, Vitalij Kuprij, Michael Angelo, Edison Avila, John Petrucci, Edu Ardanuy, Joe Stump, Theodore Ziras, Shawn Lane, George Bellas and Tom Hess, it is also necessary do add the list Yngwie Malmsteen and Overkill's Bobby Gustafson among the others; pay attention to the similarities of the latter in the use of the plectrum, as well as the bending, tapping, picking performances and finally the rhythmics and the licks that the Carioca axeman often chooses to use, and you'll agree. This powerful concentrate of Technical metal also sees the partecipation of important guest guitar heroes, Angra's Kiko Loureiro, Pablo Soler from Argentina, Francesco Fareri from Italy and US jazz/fusion virtuoso Jim Horna, and proves that Mr. Lichman has a skill and a background confirming he is ready to play back in a real band after Neverland's demise and not only a project with session musicians, be it a Thrash metal outfit, a Power metal combo, a Progressive Metal act or a Classic heavy one. He can be fast, but he also knows when it's time to work on a note and how to give it a meaning that way and in that moment, without forgetting that he has a good taste in choosing the sounds and he obtained a professional, clean and rather heavy production. Is everything devoid of faults then? A smart question whose answer is no, since there are a few aspects that might be improved a little: a more various and imaginative drumwork is preferred in tracks like "Endless"; this can be explained by the fact that the whole record was written by the guitarist, but next time he'd better leave the skinbeater more room for their ideas, the way it happens here in "Intense Guitar Playing" for instance; after all, 4 ears hear better than 2 and more appreciable contributions can come from someone who's been drumming for years; even a minimal variation in a pattern or the nuance of a second can enhance the feeling of a composition beyond belief. There are also a couple of songs with keyboards that have no reason to exist, as they are played in a manner that only piano bar or wedding bands would; however, nothing is perfect from the beginning, so let's give the south American Rock/Metal (and even a bit bluesy) guitar player time to improve the arrangement phase before the sophomore full-length release, recommending him to look at "Drug Dealers" as a pattern of really successful songwriting, a song complete and beautiful from every point of view. Not that bad of a debut nevertheless.

Rock Metal Bands (Italian Web Site)

Formado pela Faculdade de Música IPA Metodista, o guitarrista gaúcho Carlos Lichman acabou se transformando em mais uma grande pérola da música nacional. Prova disto é seu álbum solo, “Firestorm”, que além de trazer toda a técnica de velocidade do músico, ainda conta com a participação de vários nomes, sendo um deles o conceituado guitarrista Kiko Loureiro. Em um trabalho produzido esplendorosamente por Sebastian Carsin, e pelo próprio Lichman, o disco remete a canções instrumentais, aliadas a muita velocidade e ainda toda a técnica de influências declaradas do gaúcho, assim como Yngwie Malmsteen e Marty Friedman (ex-Megadeth), dentre outros. Basta dar o Play em “Firestorm” para logo já evidenciar o que vem pela frente. Canções instrumentais bastante trabalhadas em todos os sentidos e ainda inúmeros solos para completar o pacote vindo das guitarras de Lichman, que também é conhecido por já ter atuado na banda Neverland! A principal fonte do músico é apostar em notas velozes (e como!) e bastante criatividade, bastou soar a primeira faixa ‘Speed Rules’, para que boa parte dessa teoria fosse evidenciada. Bases pesadas marcam ‘Shred Dogs’, faixa que contém a participação de Kiko Loureiro. Melhor impossível! Uma verdadeira união de técnica, velocidade e feeling tomaram conta dos quatro minutos da faixa, que só por ter um ícone como o guitarrista do Angra, já merece destaque antes mesmo de sua audição. Vale à pena se atentar a canção e conferir o encarte, que mostra os exatos momentos em que Kiko atua! Em ‘Key To the Shred City', ‘Jus Rock It’ e ‘Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie’, variações rítmicas que surpreendem e se tornam extremamente contagiantes. Novamente bases pesadas servem como tapete para que os virtuosos solos de Lichman possam ditar o ritmo e alavancar o material rumo ao ápice musical nessa trinca de canções. Mas as brilhantes palhetadas ainda continuam vibrantes e agora com novas participações. Quem da às caras em ‘Drug Dealers’ é o italiano Francesco Fareni e o argentino Pablo Soler, que dividem a performance em breves 2:19 min. Outro fator que se une a todos esses fatores é a desenvoltura de Lincham, também, a frente dos teclados. Isso mesmo! O músico ainda exibe sua potência musical com os sintetizadores da sexta faixa de “Firestorm”. Simplesmente magnífico! ‘Endless’ e uma das mais pesadas e mais trabalhadas do material com lembranças das influências já citadas. Mas o que menos interessa por aqui são as influências. Tanto que na sétima faixa ocorrem momentos “viajantes” unidos à velocidade que o guitarrista opta por carregar em seus vigorosos solos. Foi assim também em ‘Intense Guitar Playing’, agora contando com o estado unidense Jim Horne, que contribuiu de forma categórica com o material, que se encerra com mais um grande petardo: ‘Beyond the Universe’. Ao fim, a conclusão de nove faixas evidenciadas por muita velocidade, técnica e virtuosismo de sobra de Lichman. Sem esquecer, é claro, das participações que trouxeram ainda mais brilhantismo para o material, que se une a outros belos trabalhos instrumentais brazucas como “Eletric Nightmares” (Edu Ardanuy) e “No Gravity” (Kiko Loureiro) por exemplo. “Firestorm” é uma grande cartada rumo ao reconhecimento uniforme não só em território nacional, além de ser um verdadeiro prato cheio para os amantes da música instrumental!

Metal Clube Web Site Web site Brasileiro

Ich staunte die Tage nicht schlecht als mir ein Arbeitskollege ein Paket aus dem sonnigen Brasilien in die Finger drückte. Der Absender war Carlos Lichman und der war mir völlig unbekannt. Was mag da wohl drin sein? Eine CD und ein Infosheet des gleichnamigen Gitarrenhexers aus dem Land mit dem Zuckerhut. Brasilien ist Metal-Technisch schon immer eine kleine Wundertüte, egal ob es nun Sepultura, Pleasure Maker, Angra oder die Lärm-Chaos-Truppe Ratos de Porao ist. Ein Wort im Info lässt mir die restlichen Haare allerdings zu Berge stehen und zwar „Shred“, wer Gitarre spielt und sich auskennt weiß was Sache ist. Carlos Lichman gibt auf „Firestorm“ ordentlich Gas auf seiner Siebensaitigen Gitarre und lässt seine flinken Fingerchen übers Griffbrett sausen. Technisch ist der Junge auf oberen Niveau und kann sich mit bekannteren Flitzefingern wie Malmsteen, McAlpine und Friedman messen und genau da liegt wieder der Knackpunkt: Das ständige Geniedel und Gegniedel ist für den Otto-Normal-Metal-Fan und Nicht-Musiker auf Dauer sehr anstrengend und kaum mehrfach zu genießen. Carlos sein „Firestorm“ wird wohl nur bei Extrem-Gitarren-Fans und Musikerkollegen auf offene Ohren stoßen. Natürlich wäre das auch wieder die passende Gelegenheit für einige Internet-Nerds sich etwas zu ordern, was kaum einer kennt und dann in ihren Stammforen geschwollen und wenn möglich Bauernschlau daher zu quatschen. Mann kennt diese Spezies ja, doch ich schweife ab. Einige Gäste hat Carlos Lichman auf dieser CD auch mit dabei und wie kann es anders sein, sind die auch Gitarristen. Da wären Pablo Soler –ein anerkannter Gitarren-Hero aus Südamerika, der Italienisch Shred-Meister Francesco Fareri, Jim Honre aus den USA und der Angra-Klampfer Kiko Loureiro haben hier ihre Auftritte. Die Musik auf der CD, ist wie gesagt, auf hohem Niveau und Fans von Guitarheros sollten sich Carlos seine Musik mal zur Gemüte führen Wer jetzt neugierig auf „Firestorm“ geworden ist, der kann sich unter www.carloslichman.com Infos holen, Songs anhören und auch die CDs bestellen.

Sleaze-metal Web Site Swedish web site

Nascido em Porto Alegre, Carlos Lichman deixou de ser guitarrista da banda Neverland para se dedicar a sua carreira solo, a partir daí, nasce seu debut, intitulado "Firestorm". O álbum é muito bom, possui uma boa qualidade gráfica e ótima qualidade sonora. Carlos é um ótimo músico, muito criativo e muito veloz, ainda por cima, contou com o apoio de diversos convidados, entre eles Kiko Loureiro (Angra) e músicos de outros paises. Carlos, ainda contou com uma ótima banda de apoio, fato comprovado em todo CD. São diversos licks, solos e riffs matadores, distribuidos em 9 faixas, destaque para "Drug Dealers", "Endless" e "Speed Rules". Um trabalho bacana, que vai agradar em cheio a galera que entende da parte técnica propriamente dita e a galera que só curte e não toca nada, como este que vos escreve e muitos outros mundo afora. A dose perfeita entre o feeling e a virtuose.
Formação:
- Carlos Lichman - Guitar
- Paulo Miguel Bublitz – Keyboards
- Vinicius Rym – Bass
- Alexandre Olly – Drums
- Leandro Berpo – Bass
- Sandro Moreira - Drums
Track List
1. Speed Rules
2. Shred Dogs
3. Key To The Shred City (In Honor Of MacAlpine And Friedman)
4. Just Rock It
5. Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie (Reincarnation)
6. Drug Dealers
7. Endless
8. Intense Guitar Playing
9. Beyond the Universe

All The Bangers Web Site brazilian web site

Gaúcho de Porto Alegre, Carlos Lichman é um guitarrista talentoso que obteve reconhecimento internacional dentro do estilo “Shredding”. “Shred” é o termo usado especialmente para guitarrista que toca em alta velocidade. O Cd “Firestorm” anuncia sua tempestade de fogo em nove composições instrumentais calcadas em desenvolvimentos pesados e cadenciados, predominantemente. No álbum não deixa de existir também passagens velozes, nas quais Carlos Lichman transmite “feeling” nas pegadas das bases pesadas, riffs criativos e solos virtuosos, muito bem encaixados nas estruturas das músicas. Tais estruturas pontuam-se de melodias eufóricas para com as sucintas harmonias em comunhão com passagens que vão do Hard Rock ao Heavy e Thrash Metal, inspirações notórias do guitarrista neste artefato.
Eis as faixas:
1. Speed Rules
2. Shred Dogs
3. Key To The Shred City (In Honor Of MacAlpine And Friedman)
4. Just Rock It
5. Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie (Reincarnation)
6. Drug Dealers
7. Endless
8. Intense Guitar Playing
9. Beyond the Universe
Percebam que na faixa 3, o guitarrista presta sua homenagem a Tony MacAlpine e Marty Friedman.
O Line-Up da banda é o seguinte:
- Carlos Lichman - Guitar (Neverland, X Project)
- Paulo Miguel Bublitz – Keyboards
- Vinicius Rym – Bass
- Alexandre Olly – Drums
- Leandro Berpo – Bass
- Sandro Moreira - Drums (Mental Horror, Rebaelliun, Sledge-Hammer)
O álbum recebeu acréscimos pela participação de grandes músicos, como os guitarristas Kiko Loureiro, Jim Horne, Francesco Fareri e Pablo Soler. E a produção foi assinada por Sebastian Carsin e pelo próprio Carlos Lichman.

Thunder God Web Site brazilian web site

Carlos, I have listened to you CD.I am so amazed by your technique and composition. Songs are so heavy and aggressive, I loved it. I am sure that you are a star in your country. I envy you about having so many great guitarists as your friends. I hope someday we can get together and jam!

Koji Tsumoto Japanese Guitarist

Gaúcho de Porto Alegre, Carlos Lichman deixou de atuar como um simples guitarrista da banda Neverland para se dedicar à carreira solo, oficinas e aulas de música e muito brilhantismo. É o primeiro trabalho do talentoso instrumentista, e para tornar a empreitada ainda melhor, chamou Kiko Loureiro, (Angra) e músicos além do país como o italiano Francesco Fareni, o argentino Pablo Soler e o estado unidense Jim Horne para acrescentarem à obra. Todos com participação marcada no encarte, para definir realmente, quem é o dono das dedilhadas velozes que estão no disco. E que velocidade! Carlos Lichman chega a ser estúpido, sem perder a postura e a musicalidade, ainda mais ressaltada pela banda base, formada por uma verdadeira equipe técnica: Alexandre Olly e Sandro Moreira na bateria, Leandro Berpo e Vinícius Rym no baixo e Paulo Miguel Bublitz no teclado, instrumento também comandado pelo próprio Lichman na canção “Drug Dealers”. “Firestorm” é um disco que os ouvintes amadores da música instrumental (assim como eu), deveriam ter conhecido há mais tempo. Se os licks e riffs desembaraçados tiveram boa repercussão na mídia especializada nacional e internacional, é por que de fato, Carlos Lichman merece elogios e aplausos. No entanto, não é por que revistas ou sites deram boas notas que só por isso vou valorizar o trabalho do gaúcho. De fato, apesar de sentir um pouco a insistência de solos mais agudos e repetitivos, reconheço o esforço empregado em todo o disco, a variedade musical, e o peso Heavy Metal aplicado em “Drug Dealers” ou em “Endless”, por exemplo. Essas duas canções servem como modelo de como empregar habilidade, criatividade e ao mesmo tempo, contagiar o ouvinte com os velhos clichês do rock. É pensar no futuro, e botar fé neste grande instrumentista brazuca!

Whiplash web site brazilian web site

"Eis aqui um trabalho de um guitarrista bastante técnico vindo do sul do Brasil, mais precisamente de Porto Alegre, Carlos Lichman. Em 2000, gravou um EP com a banda Neverland chamado “Wake Up To The Dragons” e fazendo várias apresentações. Depois dessa época seguiu em carreira solo lançando um single em 2003, “Planet Rock”. Depois disso lançou ainda em 2005 um trabalho chamado “Intense Guitar Playing” em 2005, já com três músicas e bastante inspirado pelos guitarristas oitentistas. E por fim, em 2007, Carlos vem com seu primeiro trabalho solo oficial com nove faixas instrumentais no estilo speed metal. O produtor é nada menos que Sebastian Carsin (um dos mais renomados produtores de heavy metal da América do Sul) e ainda conta com participações especiais do brasileiro Kiko Loureiro (banda Angra), do italiano Francesco Faresi, do argentino Pablo Soler e do americano Jim Horne. Além dessas participações especiais, os músicos “fixos” que gravaram esse álbum de Carlos Lichman são Alexandre Olly (baterista nas faixas 1, 2, 3, 7 e 9), Sandro Moreira (baterista nas faixas 4,6 e 8), Leandro Berpo (baixista nas faixas 2, 4, 5, 6 e 8), Vinicios Rym (baixista na faixa 1, 3, 7 e 9) e Paulo Miguel Bublitz (teclados nas faixas 4 e 8). Todos, diga se de passagem, são excelentes músicos. As três primeiras faixas são speed metal em tempo integral (“Speed Rules”, “Shred Dog” e “Key To The Shred City”, essa última é uma homenagem a Tony Macalpine e Marty Friedman). O som soa como uma mistura entre Yngwie Malmsteen e Megadeth. Já a quarta faixa, vem com algumas quebras de andamento (“Just Rock It”) onde cai para um heavy metal mais tradicional alternando com um heavy mais rápido. Na quinta composição, “Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie (Reincarnation)”, temos algo mais dramático, mais melancólico, uma balada. A pauleira volta novamente em “Drug Dealers”, onde o guitarrista mostra toda sua técnica e velocidade. “Endless”, a faixa seguinte, já é um heavy metal tradicional bem ao estilo malmsteano e como todas as outras, solos do começo ao fim. Depois temos “Intense Guitar Playing”, na mesma linha da anterior e por fim o álbum fecha com “Beyond The Universe”, um heavy metal já mais arrastado, mais cadenciado. É um músico bem ativo (leciona guitarra no Conservatório Musical Palestrina, no Centro de artes Recitatus, na escola de música Estação Musical e no estúdio Hurricane, atendendo mais de 50 alunos semanalmente e é colunista também dos americanos The Shred Zone e do Chops From Hell). Apesar disso tudo, esse é um álbum totalmente indicado para guitarristas, feito por um músico extremamente técnico, mas que pode soar enjoativo aos que procuram ouvir um heavy/thrash metal pelo fato de todas as faixas serem instrumentais e além disso, são solos em cima de solos o tempo inteiro. É uma áudio-aula em tempo integral."

Strike Virtual web site brazilian web site

"Após iniciar a carreira em bandas de Hard Rock e Heavy Metal, como a Neverland, o guitarrista Carlos Lichman, de Porto Alegre (RS), resolveu alçar vôo solo e é mais um a seguir a carreira com trabalhos instrumentais nas seis cordas. Em 3003, lançou a Demo PLANET ROCK e agora debuta com a virtuose de FIRESTORM. O disco segue a linha comum do estilo, mas tem ma pegada mais pesada, chegando a se aproximar do thrash em alguns momentos. A abertura, com Speed Rules, já da o exemplo, partindo do seu título: guitarras virtuosas e em muitos momentos dobradas, riffs agressivos e bateria sempre veloz. Mestres como Marty Friedman e Tony Macalpine são lembrados e homenageados em Key To The Shred City, faixa com muitas variações e, na mesma linha, Shred Dogs tem como convidado ilustre Kiko Loureiro (Angra). Já a agressiva Drug Dealers conta com os guitarristas Pablo Soler e Francesco Fareri. Destaca-se também Beyond The Universe, com grandes fritações, mudanças de andamento e um show do baterista Alexandre Olly. Com boa qualidade de gravação, técnicas interessantes e uma dose extra de peso, Lichman estréia sem tomar grandes riscos, mas mostra qualidade."

Roadie Crew brazilian Heavy Metal magazine

"Porte Alegre (Brazil) born Carlos Lichman releases his full length solo album Firestorm after unleashing Planet Rock single (2003) and Intense Guitar Playing EP (2005). Before that Carlos played on the Wake Up The dragons EP (2001) from the band Neverland. On his newest release Carlos is aided by Kiko Loureiro (Angra), Pablo Soler, Francesco Fareri and Jim Horne who all contribute a guest solo on this album. Carlos Lichman is a ‘classic’ guitarist similar to MacAlpine, Friendman, Moore and with titles like Shred Dogs, Intense Guitar Playing and Key to the shred city (dedicated to MacAlpine and Friedman) everybody knows what to expect. And yes, you are gonna get exactly that. Speed playing, shredding and basically easy listening instrumental songs. Nothing shocking but well played. The production is decent and nothing more. Fans of instrumental guitarwork can get this one!"

Digital Steel Web Site

"Guitar virtuoso Carlos Lichman was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He began his musical education as a classically trained guitarist. In 2001, he recorded the "Wake Up The Dragons" EP with the heavy metal band Neverland. However, he decided to start a solo career and recorded his first instrumental single in 2003, in 2005 followed by an EP. In 2006 he released the live dvd "Celebrando Mozart", playing compositions of Mozart. He also appeared on two compilation cd's. He recorded his first "real" album "Firestorm" with some other Brazilian musicians, but he invited also some wellknown guitarists to play some guest solo's (Kiko Loureiro, Pablo Soler, Francesco Fareri and Jim Horne). On "Firestorm" are some ultrafast shred metal songs with complicated changes and impressive melodic solo parts like "Speed Rules", "Shred Dogs" and "Key To The Shred City" (which is played in honour of MacAlpine and Friedman"), but there are also a few calmer rock/fusion tracks like "Just Rock It", "Intense Guitar Playing" and "Beyond The Universe". These songs are influenced by a guitarist such as Michael Lee Firkins. There's also a short classical piece, called "Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie". So this album is a good mix of instrumental shred metal in the vein of Rusty Cooley, Michael Angelo Batio and some more rock influenced songs influenced by Michael Lee Firkins and Steve Morse."

MARIO'S METAL MANIA WEB SITE FROM THE NETHERLANDS

"Carlos Lichman is a shred guitarist from Porto Alegre in Brazil. This classically trained musician played in a band Neverland and recorded some stuffs before aforementioned solo debut, e.g. "Planet Rock" (Single, 2003) and "Intense Guitar Playing" (EP, 2005), however his playing can be also audible on "Celebrando Mozart" Live DVD from the year 2006. Although "Firestorm" is his debut album, here are collected many less and better known artist. Carlos himself played most guitar parts and keys on one track. He was backed by two drummers (Alexandre Olly, Sandro Moreira), two bassists (Leandro Berpo, Vinicius Rym) and a keyboardist Paulo Miguel Bublitz. They are this "less known" part of the stuff. The "better known" one are guest guitar players: Kiko Loureiro (Angra), Pablo G. Soler (neoclassical shredmaster from Argentina), Francesco Fareri (Italian shred wizard) and Jim Horne (jazz/fusion guitar virtuoso from the USA). But the main figure of "Firestorm" is Mr. Lichman whose heavy lead parts are crossed with melodic and cutting solos. His music is larded with shredding tones, however here are also some quiet fragments like Thoinot Arbeau's "Belle Qui Tiens Ma Vie (Reincarnation)" that can make you think of Renaissance dances. It is played in calm and minor mood, so it gets a great contrast in comparison to the rest tracks. The third track "Key To The Shred City" was recorded in honour of two shred tycoons - Tony MacAlpine and Marty Friedman as they are one of Carlos' greatest inspirations. Yes, there were such tracks like Friedman's "Forbidden City" and MacAlpine's "Key To The City", however this piece of music is performed in definitely different style than compositons from Marty's "Dragon's Kiss" and Tony's "Maximum Security". Anyway, it is one of the most melodic tracks with powerful rhythmicity. Carlos is a chap who attacks our ears with rhythmic lead parts, numerous shred quips and some atmospheric fragments as well. Mr. Lichamn showed us a complex architecture of shredding genre. I can praise him for the album's title, since it reflects his music as a stormy, furious, fiery and belched out stuff. "Firestorm" is a good load of decent shredding power."

DEPARTAMENT OF VIRTUOSITY WEB SITE FROM POLAND

"Infernal Scream, an Australian web site, had this to say about Brazilian guitarist Carlos Lichman's Firestorm CD, "If you like extensive and aggressive guitar workm this album is a good addition in your collection. Firestorm is an instrumental album from a guitarist from Brazil. The sound quality of album is great for a self-release and is a good attempt to provide extensive and aggressive music to shred loving listeners. Although one cannot compare it with Malmsteen or Micheal Angelo Batio, and one should not try to do that. The CD starts with "Speed Rules" and picks up the tempo straight away. The best track is "Drug Dealers" followed by "Intense Guitar Playing" and "Beyond The Universe". There is a Brazilian flavor to this album, and that adds some verity as well. We highly recommend this album to everyone who loves guitar Instrumentals." Firestorm features guest guitar solos by Kiko Loureiro, Pablo Soler, Francesco Fareri and Jim Horne."

GUITAR 9 American Web Site

"Beh', se cercavato un vero disco di puro shred-metal allora questo cd fa per voi! Questo è il secondo lavoro del brasiliano Carlos Lichman che torna con un lavoro più maturo e professionale rispetto al precedente d'esordio. Nove tracce al fulmicotone con riffate da vero metallers che ospita infatti grandi nome del chitarrismo attuale come l'axeman degli Angra Kiko Loureiro in Shred Dogs. Naturalmente poche le melodie inflitte dal nostro guitar hero brasiliano, molta tecnica e forse troppa perchè dopo un lungo ascolto potrebbe anche annoiare se non fosse per gli interventi di altre guests come Francesco fareri e Pablo Soler nella neoclassica con influenze Dream Theter Drug Dealers. Buoni i suoni e la produzione e ottimo lavoro alla batteria di Alexandre Olly e Sandro Moreira. Come dicevo in precedenza, un lavoro che farà la gioa dei più accaniti shredder-maniacs in circolazione, questo fa per voi cari collezionisti!"

GUITAR CHEF Italian Web Site

If you like extensive and aggressive guitar work; This album is a good addition in your collection. Carlos Lichman - Firestorm; is an instrumental album from a guitarist from Brazil. The sound quality of album is great for a self-release. A good attempt to provide extensive and aggressive to shred loving listeners. Although one cannot compare it with Malmsteen or Micheal Angelo Batio and one should not try to do that. The CD starts with Speed Rules and picks up tempo straight away. The best track I think was "Drug Dealers" followed by "Intense Guitar Playing" and "Beyond The Universe". There is a Brazilian flavor in this album and that adds some verity as well. We highly recommend this album to everyone who loves guitar Instrumentals. Best of luck, Carlos.

Infernal Scream Australian Web Site

Carlos Lichman nasce in Brasile, a Porto Alegre City. Inizia ad appassionarsi di musica classica, così comincia a prendere lezioni private di chitarra. Di fatto innegabile che sia ben marcata l'influenza della musica dei secoli XVIII-XIX, quella dei grandi compositori; come non citare ad esempio Paganini, Vivaldi, Mozart, Bach e Beethoven? Non a caso la musica da lui suonata è il neoclassical metal, in forma prettamente strumentale, ed oltre che nei compositori storici le sue influenze sono rintracciabili anche in artisti più recenti, che hanno fatto, o in certi casi che continuano a fare, la storia del genere: Jason Becker, Marty Friedman e Yngwie Malmsteen. Primo full-length dell'artista è questo interessante "Firestorm", in passato Carlos aveva pubblicato un paio di Ep, un singolo ("Intense Guitar Playing", brano presente in quest'album), un DVD live del 2006 intitolato "Celebrando Mozart", e qualche suo pezzo era apparso in delle compilation. Alla registrazione hanno inoltre collaborato quattro altrettanto talentuosi chitarristi: i sudamericani Pablo Soler (solista nella canzone Drug dealers) e Kiko Loureiro(direttamente dagli Angra; solista in Shred dogs), lo statunitense Jim Horne (solista in Intense guitar playing), e l'italiano Francesco Fareri (solista in Drug dealers insieme a Soler). Che questo guitar hero sia mosso da una forte fede lo si capisce appena aperto il booklet, ove, nei Thanks, la prima frase che si legge è la bellissima "(Thanks) God, You show me the way of light!". Dopo questa introduzione passiamo all'esame musicale dell'album. Come già detto Lichman suona un metal neoclassico strumentale, e davvero niente male. La track-list presenta nove tracce. Apre le danze Speed rules, un titolo davvero appropriato; gli assoli si susseguono, sostenuti dalla velocissima batteria di Alexandre Olly (tracce 1-2-3-7-9) e dal basso di Vinicius Rym (1-3-7-9). Si passa quindi a Shred dogs dove, come già accennato, partecipa il chitarrista degli Angra: suo l'assolo iniziale che si protrae sino ai 30 secondi circa, quello che parte a 1:50 e termina a 2:15, ed il finale, che parte a 3:23 e finisce insieme alla canzone. Qui al basso troviamo Leandro Berpo (tracce 2-4-5-6-8). Seguono Key to the shred city (in onore di Tony MacAlpine e Marty Friedman), Just rock it (dietro le pelli vi è Sandro Moreira - tracce 4-6-8 -, mentre al piano il tastierista Paulo Miguel Bublitz - tracce 4-8) e Belle qui tiens ma vie. Drug dealers, traducibile come "spacciatore", è probabilmente il pezzo più importante del lavoro, nonostante duri a malapena due minuti e diciannove secondi: qui sono ben tre guitar hero a duellare sino "all'ultimo assolo". Inizia Carlos, che posa per un po' la chitarra per suonare la tastiera, finché, a 0:52, interviene il sudamericano Pablo Soler, che suona sino a 1:22, lasciando poi spazio al nostrano Francesco Fareri, il quale ci regala un bellissimo assolo che va sino ad 1:46. Segue Endless che non presenta alcuna caratteristica particolare, sullo stile sino ad ora adoperato nel disco. Ottava traccia Intense guitar playing, pezzo uscito nel 2005 come singolo e qui ripreso con l'americano Jim Horne come guest star; suo l'assolo che va da 1:12 sino ad 1:31. Chiude la (molto) bella Beyond the universe. Un bel lavoro di metal neoclassico - soprattutto se si considera che questo è il debutto del giovane Carlos Lichman - che raccoglie performance di altri chitarristi altrettanto dotati e talentuosi. Sperando che riesca col tempo ad acquisire più espressività e a personalizzare il sound, gli auguro tanta fortuna.

White Metal Italian Web Site

Hello Carlos! i've received the cd few days ago and it is one of the best self release i've ever heard! The production is execellent and the album sounds very very very very good! congratulations! The songs are very interesting and the playing is over the top! I really like the album and it will be in my stereo for some time for sure! thanks again for asking me to join your solo project, it was a pleasure for me to record that solo! I wish you all the best for your music!

Francesco Fareri Guitarist from Italy

Thanks for sending me the cd.. killer stuff and very cool playing throughout… also was cool to see my friend Francesco on the cd too! - isn’t he a really really cool person? He’s the best friend you can ask for! Anyway, I dig your tracks and the intensity of the playing is exciting… Thanks for the great cd man!

Tom Hess Guitarist from USA

hey man!! yes, i recive it today!!! great work man!! i really like it!! congratulations!! thanks again for invite me!! "

Pablo Soler Guitarist from Argentina

"Hey Carlos, I just got your CD today! Simply awesome in every way… outstanding!!! Thanks for the opportunity to have me guest solo on it!"

Jim Horne American Guitarist

Review from Expomusic 2006

"Carlos Lichman's technique impressed Expomusic 2006"

"The south of Brazil was very well represented during Expomusic 2006. Carlos Lichman from Rio Grande do Sul State, supported by Giannini, presented his work on Giannini Stand and impressed by his high speed technique during the improvisation. Playing with the CD, Carlos Lichman showed his work that he used to present during his workshops in the south of Brazil."

Giannini Strings (Strings Company)

INTENSE GUITAR PLAYING DEMO Reviews!

"Carlos is a Brazilian guitarist. He was born in Porto Alegre city. He used to study different styles as classic, Rocl/metal, jazz/fusion music. He recorded an EP with a heavy metal band called Neverland. However, his influences were Steve Vai, Marty Friedman, Paul Gilbert and he decided to be a solo artist. after all, he sent us his demo cd "Intense Guitar Playing".
This CD is an instrumental one. We can listen a high performance technique, a mix of neo-classic style, jazz and fusion. It sounds good at faster shredding."

Burrn Magazine (Japanese Magazine) translation by ma-Saki

Click here to read the article in japanese

Intense Brazilian Instrumentalist

Brazilian metal man Carlos Lichman submitted his three song demo CD-R, the appropriately named Intense Guitar Playing. All instrumental, Lichman chose these tunes because they were well accepted by the audiences at his workshops and master classes. The opening track "Drug Dealers" is a heavy quick hitter in the Paul Gilbert and Jason Becker tradition, with double-bass drumming setting the stage for fiery, hi-volume sweeping and a snarling solo befitting the title. "Heavy Influence" follows, a longer track more in the progressive rock vein, and it blazes with ultra-fast solos, and intense, in-your-face arpeggios influenced by Michael Angelo Batio and Francesco Fareri. Closing out the demo is the title track, a groove-fueled hard rock track with tough guitar sounds, funky wah-wah and slamming, bowel-bruising solos. Lichman is well on his way to his goal of writing the most intense melodic guitar songs yet. Carlos was born in Porto Alegre City, Brazil. He began his musical education as a classically trained guitarist; his subsequent rock recordings retain a pronounced classical influence, incorporating elements of jazz, fusion and MPB as well. He recorded the "Wake up the Dragons" EP with Neverland (heavy metal) in 2001. Local radio stations accepted this EP very well and Neverland had great opportunities to play in big events. However, the group dissolved and Lichman decided to concentrate on his instrumental solo career. Influenced by Steve Vai, Marty Friedman, Paul Gilbert and Richie Kotzen, Carlos recorded a demo CD called "Planet Rock" in 2003, where Carlos' songwriting and guitar skills shined.

Lichman currently organizes guitar workshops and master classes, develops background music for plays and movies, and gives guitar lessons. He also writes guitar columns for several web sites and a music newspaper.

Guitar 9 Records web (Web site from EUA)

"Your CD is too much.I was deeply moved!!heavy groove and tight rhythm on the Super-dimension guitar melody. your guitar play blows me away.and,intelligent tunes!!That's neat.You have good taste:-)I'm thrilled.The marvelous performance power and a wonderful tune shake a soul.It appreciates this work which gave me deep impression!!"

ma-Saki (Japanese Guitarist)

"The new material is really outstanding, and you will feature the Overdrive show again ! I'm sure that once, you will have a suitable band and that you will become huge !! Keep up the good work, follow your heart and inspiration and give people and music fans what they want : quallity music, made by a skilled guitarplayer !!"

Patrick de Sloover (O V E R D R I V E 666-The oldest metal show in Belgium)

"the cd sounds amazing! I think it has a REALLY professional sound! the mix is great and the instruments sound great! powerful drumming, powerful rhythm section and amazing solos from your playing! I think you are a great player with a lot of potential and amazing technique! i really like your CD! if you record other 5 songs you can make a full album and sell everywhere becasue you deserve more attention!
I really wish you all the best! you are GREAT!" thanks and take care

Francesco Fareri (Italian Guitarist)

"Intrumental music (high quality) by virtuso guitarist from Porto Alegre. Carlos Lichmanseems as a baby but plays as an adult. Playing in many hard rock and heavy metal bands from his city, He recorded "Wake up the Dragons" EP with NEVERLAND (Heavy Metal) in 2001. However, Lichman decided to work in his instrumental solo career and recorded "Planet Rock" demo CD in 2003. After the recording of this CD, Carlos dediacted all his time for instrumental music. In this CD, Carlos' songwriting and guitar skill shined and was very well accepted and praised in Brazil and overseas. Carlos Lichman' main purpose is to write the most intense melodic guitar songs ever listen. Influenced by great shredders as Jason Becker, Marty Friedman, Rusty Cooley, Francesco Fareri and Michael Angelo, Lichman recorded "Intense Guitar Playing". It features Brazilian shred guitarist blazing on three instrumental songs in the progressive/shred metal style. The main characteristic of this work is the high technique guitar level that Lichman presents with powerful guitar chops as the result of many years of guitar lessons. This Demo was produced by Uruguayan producer Sebastian Carsin that recorded bands as Bestial (Brazil), Ossuary (Uruguay) and Enthroned (Belgium). Drums was recorded by Sandro Moreira (Rebaeliun/Mental Horror/Sledge Hammer), bass by Vinicius Rym and keyboard by Pablo Mariano. "Intense Guitar Playing" Demo has three new songs: "Drug Dealers" - The open track of the CD, It is characterized by speed guitar solos, symphonic keyboards and captivating chorus. Influenced by Jason Becker, Marty Friedman and Rusty Cooley "Heavy Influence" - A progressive rock with different changes of measure, dark harmonies, expressive speed solos, blazing arpeggios from beginning to end. In this song, Carlos was influenced by Michael Angelo Batio, Francesco Fareri, Rusty Cooley e Michael Romeo (Symphony X). "Intense Guitar Playing"- An introduction with many guitar solos. This song has a Hard Rock characteristic, influenced by Steve Morse and Michael Angelo Batio. Its chorus is marked by the use of wah-wah pedals to increase the expression of the guitar solos. Carlos Lichman organizes guitar workshops, masterclasses, develops background music for theater's plays, movies, teaches guitar lessons at Palestrina music school in Porto Alegre city and writes guitar columns to The Shred Zone (America Web Site), Guitar-Heroes (France Web Site) and Porto Blues (Brazilian Music Newspaper)."

Diario On Line (Brazilian Web Site)

"To obtain support for the recording of his first album, Carlos Lichman spread his second demo with 3 songs, composed by the guitar-hero. The first CD pleased reviewers and the audience but the musician wants more now. Showing more elements (keyboards), this talented guitarist brings speed lead guitars in this work. Traditional heavy metal, progressive rock and hard rock are some styles that you'll find in "Intense Guitar Playing" CD. This work shows the guitarist's virtuosism and creativity. The demo was produced by Sebastian Carsin, which worked with Enthroned and Bestial. Another amazing name is Sandro Moreira on the drums (Rebaellium and mental Horror). The booklet is very well produced, a beautiful sleeve. In general, it's a very well CD, produced by this talented musician that has a lot of things to show us!"
Note: 9,00

And Heavy Metal For All (Brazilain Web Site)