Marty Friedman at Guitar Monsters Japan Vol. 2
Guitar maestro Marty Friedman headlined volume 2 of Guitar Monsters Japan in Tokyo.
Marty Friedman at Daikanyama Unit, Tokyo, Japan on 8th March 2025
Having recently returned home to Tokyo following an extensive US tour, guitar maestro Marty Friedman performed a high-energy headline set at Guitar Monsters Japan Volume 2, which also featured performances by Asterism and Sahaji.
It seemed as if Marty’s successful US tour has given him and his band renewed energy. Long-time band member Chargeeeeee is a powerful drummer who also knows how to entertain. He’s quite a character. Guitarist Naoki Morioka has in recent years grown to become an important part of the band. Bassist Wakazaemon wasn’t available for this gig, but her temporarily replacement, ShioRi from the band Little Lilith, did a fine job. She performed with Marty for the first time but it didn’t show. Not only did she play superbly, she also rocked out on stage.
They opened with “Deep End” from the latest album “Drama” and followed it with “Angel” from the “Scenes” album. There were favourites such as “Kaze ga Fuiteru”, “Tornado of Souls”, “Devil Take Tomorrow”, “Amagigoe” and “Kaeritakunatta yo” in the set. The completely instrumental performance also featured “Tearful Confession” and “Illumination” from the “Drama” album. It was such a joy watching Marty and his band having fun on stage. It felt like this was a victory lap celebrating the completion of the successful US tour.
As an encore, Marty and the band invited Asterism and Sahaji to join them for a fun version of Bryan Adams’ “Summer of 69” with Shotaro Nishida on vocals. It was a fitting end to Guitar Monsters Japan Volume 2.
I have seen Marty perform live more times than I can remember, probably more than any other artist. What keeps it interesting is that he always pushes forward musically. There are usually nods to the past and songs from his latest release. But he often throws in some unexpected curveball. I look forward to many more gigs by Marty Friedman.
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