This is fun! Now I want to hear your music, Doug, and I would love to hear your reaction to my recent pieces, "Once Upon a Melody" and "Fantasy Weaver" from my Triumphant Hearts album. Thank you for doing this video.
Jason your pieces are like a travel to other dimensions. I still remeber how I felt (tears in my eyes) when I heard Altitudes for the first time. You are a hero and an inspiration to all of us.
Jason, you are an inspiration, and your music is just otherworldly. Your recent album is just amazing, in particular how much it sounds like you, despite being played by guest musicians!
@@khamkaiarolim9975 I am dead serious... The whole "Perpetual burn" album was wrote by him between 16 and 17. He is a true musical Genius. We can only imagine what Jason could do now if it wasn't for ALS.
I contacted Jason ..He responded , and I know the only way he communicates is with his eyes .Told him he was my inspiration.. Knowing what he has gone through and continues , Is my inspiration while I am a guitarist , had my thumb amputated and diagnosed with stage 4 cancer . I attribute my staying power and enduring , partly due to Jason taking time out of his life for me .. He has lifted so many not only through his music , But his God given Grace to touch others like me
@@daviclar867 Where is the cancer ? It's in my brain , 3 tumors . Oddly it started in my right thumb , My sister an RN never even knew it could start there . Initially a Dr thought it was a fungal infection beneath my thumbnail , It blackened and got worse , Thought I might have even smacked it with a hammer . After a year I went to a hand surgeon and he immediately said it looks like melanoma , Regardless the thumb has to be amputated . He biopsied and a few days later came back malignant melanoma . Had a biopsy of my lymph nodes that same day of amputation , Came back cancerous and elevated to Stage 3 , That triggered scans of my lungs and brain . Since this is where melanoma generally goes to . The scans came back with 3 brain tumors . One deep in the basal ganglia ,another in the parietal lobe .Elevated to stage 4 . .. The simplest name of the cancer I have is Stage 4 Melanoma that has spread to the brain . The oncologist expected last year to give me 3 months to live , Told me melanoma is one of the deadliest forms and life expectancy is grim . Ironically the day I got a proper diagnosis is about the same day The Covid insanity began , March 17th 2020 . I've lost count of how needles I've had , Probably 80 hospital , cancer centers , numerous MRI's, PET and CAT scans . I have undergone a form of radiation called Truebeam that focuses beams of protons onto the tumors , I haven't gone through what is generally known as Chemo -Therapy , I am being infused with Immuno-therapy in a clinical trial sponsored by Bristol Mayer and grants to my hospital for study . Supposedly chemo does little for the brain since it can't transit the blood / brain barrier to kill the cancer , I am undergoing a relatively new drug " Opdivo " that time is showing has promise . .. Generally when someone hears Stage 4 . It'll put you through a rollercoaster of emotions . By The Grace of God , Great Dr's and nurses , Keeping up the Faith, , Laughing , Acceptance and the reaching out of others .. Has sustained me !! Peace
@@ErikStone1 I say give Marty another chance with Megadeth. They recommended the least musical song by Megadeth, I say give him some Tornado of Souls or Hangar 18, Marty's playing in Megadeth is NOT unimpressive ahaha. But yeah Cacophony is pretty cool to suggest too
@@boussusmudflood7907 lol funny u say that because jason said dweller in the cellar was the weakest track on perpetual burn haha i love every piece by him though
What I love about Jason is that he was able to develop his own voice within the neo-classical realm. He was NOT an Yngwie clone. While Yngwie popularized neo-classical and contributed a ton to the genre, Jason was only riding the wave but still using his own "board". His compositions were filled with his own signature licks and progressions. I was so relieved to hear Pepetual Burn because it, instantly, offered a more positive contrast to Yngwie's more brooding and warmly rich ambience. Jason offered some diversity in approaching a shared genre. Jason also offered a more sprightly and sunnier timbre. But, obviously, we wasn't devoid of visiting a warmer or brooding approach. We hear this in Cacophony. But it's sheer musical ignorance to even suggest he was an Yngwie clone and it's only practical and smart to take advantage of a musical movement when the opportunity arises. That doesn't make you a clone.
Jason is a guy who breaks down everything note for note in his head, his dad puts the notes together and a masterpiece is written. Not a single note is not planned with Jason, he knew/knows exactly what hes doing. He is one of the best musician ever. That damn als 😔
Truly one of the greatest travesties of our time, that ALS robbed him of his mobility. But, conversely, one of the greatest gifts of our time is the fact that he's still with us, and composing music AS GOOD as his best!
I’ve always been partial to “Air” on that album. It’s a little fugue and I have always marveled at how a 19-year-old could come up with that piece and execute it so elegantly. Tasteful, not a wasted note.
Fastest I've ever clicked! Becker's such a huge inspiration, not just because of being a guitarist, but a genius composer and a hell of a warrior. Thank you Doug. I'd recommend End of the Beginning also by Jason, amazing composition, you'll love it. And still on the Neoclassical topic I'd recommend Rhapsody of Fire - Wings of Destiny too.
Tony is criminally underrated. Apart from his solo work, he played guitar and/or keyboards with a lot of guitarists from that era, sometimes helping with the production. He has evolved as an artist, breaking out initially as a Neo-classical guitar player (à la Becker, Malmsteen) and later moving to a more jazz/jazz-fusion style. Pushing, searching for that intersection of beauty and originality. He is equally gifted as a keyboard player. Very humble, understated gentleman.
Really happy to see Jason keeps reaching new ears. His musicianship is on a league of its own, and fortunately he managed to write more of it down into his second album, Perspective, which is mainly a symphonic record. He continues to write music, and his newest album has some beautiful compositions. He is also a wonderful human being.
i don't think anyone who isn't a guitarist, and really most guitarists, really realize how hard it is to emulate Jason's sound. you can play the notes, but never make it sound like him. and he wrote all of this from age 12 then recorded it at 17. absolutely mind blowing. he's truly the greatest guitarist and composer in recent history. so dynamic.
End of the beginning is an amazing track he composed when he was already diagnosed by als, it's also a more classical sound-like song. He wrote it but unfortunately he couldnt play it due his condition. If you ever do a reaction make sure to give the piece a fair shot and do the studio version and not the cut video one. Thank you.
That would be really interesting! I always thought Jason was expressing his feelings through this song , a little story of his life... Michael Lee firkins was actually the guitar performer on this song as Jason wasn't able to play it by that time , he did incredible job!!!
That ending really keeps you hanging after that beautiful melodic moment but it allows the next track Perpetual Burn to slap you across the face. It's probably what Jason intended.
Finally Jason Becker’s music. But “Air” is where it’s at. He wrote it for his parents when he was 14 years old. It’s simply a masterpiece with lots of influence from Scarlatti.
Stating that Jason is a genius is not enough to do justice to his talent. He's litterally one of the best guitar players of all times. Perpertual Burn is, in my opinion, the best Neo-classical metal album of all times. It's a masterpiece.
I haven't heard Jason in a while and now I'm going to have to listen to this album on the way home from work. Oh darn I hope Marty Friedman is on your list too, Doug! The album Dragon's Kiss came out the same year as Jason's Perpetual Burn. Of course you probably know they were in the same band, Cacophony, before their solo albums.
Upvote on reacting to Master Friedman, in my opinion one of the most tasteful guitar virtuoso, Introduction is one of my favourite albums to listen, it is the only guitar albums that I can listen on repeat all day long.
Seconding "Air" from the same album mentioned by others. "End of the Beginning" is also a very good recommendation from when ALS started affecting him more.
How about digging into Allan Holdsworth, his music has been described as a "black hole" in jazz fusion music. The man was one of the most unique guitarists, and he had a completely unique approach to harmony and how he utilized scales, bitonalism, block chords, guitar effects and synthesizers as an improvisor and composer, made his music into a universe of its own. If Oliver Messiaen was a guitarist and had a guitarists approach to open voicings. He is commonly considered to be the greatest legato player of all time on the electric guitar. Holdsworth's the Sixteen Men of Tain, or perhaps Zarabeth summarizes what I speak of well. I think you will find his work and the musicianship to be mind blowing. He raised the bar of what I thought was possible on the guitar and in some ways on any instrument, in terms of fluidity, speed, precision, rythm, phrasing and effect usage etc.
Hi Doug, you should definitely do AIR and SERRANA by Jason Becker. They are very much influenced by classical music, so it should be very interesting. Thank you for your videos!
Jason Becker is my hero. There is so much to learn from not only Jason’s music but his perseverance, human spirit and attitude. Long live Jason Becker. End of the beginning is a masterpiece
Thank you thank you for finally answering my request and reacting to this particular masterpiece by Jason...now I can stop requesting this one and move on to bugging you to do another one from this album like Eleven Blue Egyptians maybe!!!
Hard to listen to this without getting my eyes moist. Life can be so unfair... 19 years old, and already such level of talent and skills, just to end up being deprived from his talents by some disease. In a world were mediocrity reigns, specially in art these days.... so unfair.
How Beautiful to see you all still digging his music. The drummer on Most of those records was one of my teachers/Friend . Atma Anur. So I became a fan of Jason. We used to write to each other during the Holidays. Super nice guy.
People recommended a few other pieces such as Air from the same album, and others from Cacophony's Speed Metal Symphony such as the title track Speed Metal Symphony itself and Concerto, and I think these are great, but check out Images from Cacophony's second album as well.
Every time I listen to this piece I keep thinking about how Jason was writing and recording it, with his whole life laying ahead of him, a true genius, and he had no clue what was waiting for him around the corner. Always breaks my heart because this album is a pure brilliance and we all can only imagine what could have he become.
@@armandoaraujo6128 the album Introduction from Marty is my absolute favourite guitar album, bar none. Not complicated or fast or anything, just tasteful, beautiful piece of art. I can listen to it non stop.
@Leonardo Postacchini listen to scenes by him if you haven’t although i’m sure you have, if you haven’t you’ll love it, it’s my favorite album of all time
Used to have this song on tape and played it until the tape broke. Never knew the name of the song and could not find it and it on Spotify. What a great find ❤️
Love your reaction to the end! Thát "What??" was exactly how I finished listening to this song back in the day 😅 Jason is still musically amazing but his technical skills were just miles beyond anything we had heard up until that point - Jason's and Marty Friedman's first album with Cacophony is still a milestone.
I was just about to tell you how I enjoy your videos and commentary immensely. And, how this is valuable information to Me as a drummer/piano player. But, then I saw Jason Becker watched your video too... I'm just amazed... Inspirational... Thanks so much, Doug.
@@LogioTek Wonder no more! Yes, I'd say that's a correct assessment about rhythm and melody. I might add that I knew more guitarists than pianists/keyboardists with similar musical taste when I made the decision to learn a second instrument.
Jason is an absolute treasure. Also check out Tony Macalpine who was on the same record label. He fused some Chopin into his style and not only a stellar guitarist, but an accomplished pianist/keyboardist as well.
Never saw Doug being amazed liked that. Speaks for Jason. Best guitarist ever. He’s like making his guitar crying in the most beautiful way I’ve ever heard.
For a modern guitar virtuoso you should really hear Guthrie Govan. Besides his insane technical chops he also has an encyclopedic knowledge of music theory and an amazing ear for improvisation. Anything he's done with The Aristocrats is excellent, but Bad Asteroid is a great starting place. I'd recommend the live version from "Boing, We'll Do It Live."
I got his album when I was around 17 or so, and Jason Becker is only a year or two older than me...I went back to the woodshed after hearing it. Have followed him ever since. Glad to see you checking him out.
Anything from Marty Friedmans "Dragons Kiss" album. He and Jason played together in a band called Cacophony and did two albums. They then each went solo and did other projects.
Thing I always loved about Jason Becker is that he wasn't just always fast fast fast like malmsteen. He left time to be expressive and develop his themes. Lots of emotion and obviously skill beyond words.
Jason's Perpetual Burn album really is the pinnacle of this genre. Many commenters have recommended that Doug react to Air next (I wholeheartedly agree) but to me Mabel's Fatal Fable is an underrated and underrecognized masterpiece which will blow his mind. It's definitely worthy of a reaction video.
I bought this in high school...I also started playing guitar in high school right around this time. Becker and I are the same age, and I'm just now getting comfortable enough to play these songs on guitar. Ugh! Just spun this vinyl tonight along with some new Marty Friedman. This is an album I've listened to consistently for 33 years!!
Now that you've tasted a bit of the 80s Shrapnel Recorrds stuff, you should check out Jason's running mate, Marty Friedman, Tony Macalpine, Vinnie Moore, Greg Howe, Michael Lee Firkins (who came a couple years later than the previous names). So much talent at that label.
God's looking down on Jason Becker saying not now son, You've got a few left in you and they'll change the world🤘 his life has been a story of pure will and a story of a man that won't surrender under any circumstances. A hero to many. A genius. A legend. And without knowing or meeting him has changed my life. Made me truly realize everyday is a gift and to make the most of every second because nothing is certain in life. I'm sure many people feel that very same way, proof enough you have indeed already changed the world for the better 🕊️
Loved that album and Jason's music. What he does simply is jawdropping. It's always interesting what you have to say about the music you react to on this channel. I really appreciate your content and your expertise. I'm sure you must have heard of the band Wintersun and their famous live rehearsal videos from their 2nd studio album Time I. Just in case you don't have that one on your list: I highly recommend to check out Sons of Winter and Start at Sonic Pump Studios. Cheers!
Fantastic video reaction. I not only remember the day this album came out (which was also the day that I picked it up, along with Marty Friedman’s Dragon’s Kiss), I remember *waiting* for it come out, as Shrapnel started with the ads well in advance of the release date. Still have my original copy. If memory serves, I believe that Jason recorded this opus when he was 18.
Jason was and still be one of the Guitar Composer Gods of all time. A blessing not just for guitar world but for Music itself too. An absolute Maestro, technical and melodic Virtuoso, and as far as i read and heard around an unique lovely and humble Man.
He's never heard these songs before in his life, yet he (almost) always knows how they're gonna play out within 15 seconds. A true mark of a genius composer.
With regards to the ending........ I really see this album as an album listen rather than individual tracks so the way it just hangs there isn't such a big deal IMO because track 2 (Perpetual Burn) seems to scoop it up quite nicely. As with all these things though, YMMV.
Doug, I am enjoying your series immensely. AFA the state of electric guitar, the past 30 years have produced an unprecedented crop of virtuosos - Becker, Malmsteen, Vai, Petrucci, Loureiao (sp), Gilbert, MacAlpine, and more recently on the horizon, Bielatowicz and Gillette. Dozens more to mention, I know... But the grandfather of 20th century electric guitar was Allan Holdsworth (D.2017). Without a doubt. Ask any of this pantheon, and they kneel in awe. The reason is Holdsworth possessed not only near-godlike composition and technical skills (like others), he was ALSO able to improvise in real time within the composition, creating entire frameworks of lasting themes every eight bars that stand on their own, never to be repeated by him. And subsequently analyzed by head-scratchers all over the world.
Alex Skolnick posted a video of him rehearsing for a Holdsworth tribute. He said that first thing he had to do was slow everything way down so he could digest the chord changes. For me that spoke volumes. A guitar player the caliber of Skolnick had to slow things down so he could figure out what Holdsworth was doing.
Hola Doug, excelente eleccion con el legendario Jason, te recomiendo Air del mismo disco, es simplemente brillante. Para Agregar a esa increible cancion, el compositor Konstantin Kokourov realizo un "cover" de esta pieza (interpretada por la Scoring Berlin Symphony Orchestra, conducida por Bernhard Wünsch) y es algo que vale la pena ver y disfrutar, siendo que esta pieza la compuso Becker con 17 años encerrado en su habitacion. Una completa locura.
The album was released on Shrapnel Records SH-1035. Amazing stuff. At the same time SH-1036 Dragon’s Kiss - Marty Friedman was released. Amazing as well. Please react on a Marty song as well. Maybe “Thunder March”?
About time Doug. This is just a Jason Becker appetizer. Songs like "air", "end of the beginning" and the "speed metal Symphony", "Images" that he play with Marty Friedman show off his virtuosity and talented song writing ability. And he was 17 when he played in Cacophony
Why is someone Always cutting onions when fellow Jason Becker fans are in the comments? You guys rock. Thanks for reviewing, Doug - new subscriber! \m/
Doug, you have to check out Jason Becker “Air” I believe this is right up your alley and would appreciate it a lot more then this song. Altitudes is nice but Air is contrapuntal with very impressive writing.
This is fun! Now I want to hear your music, Doug, and I would love to hear your reaction to my recent pieces, "Once Upon a Melody" and "Fantasy Weaver" from my Triumphant Hearts album. Thank you for doing this video.
🤘🤘🔥🔥🔥
Thanks! I’ll take a look at your pieces.
Jason your pieces are like a travel to other dimensions. I still remeber how I felt (tears in my eyes) when I heard Altitudes for the first time. You are a hero and an inspiration to all of us.
Jason, you are an inspiration, and your music is just otherworldly. Your recent album is just amazing, in particular how much it sounds like you, despite being played by guest musicians!
Triumphant Hearts is a MUST purchase. Stellar album and stellar lineup
" Calling Jason a musical genius is actually a bit of an understatement!"
Marty Friedman
He wrote "Altitudes" when he was 16.
Enough said.
Wtf are u serious, I'm 16 and still playing canon
@@khamkaiarolim9975
I am dead serious...
The whole "Perpetual burn" album was wrote by him between 16 and 17.
He is a true musical Genius.
We can only imagine what Jason could do now if it wasn't for ALS.
Thanks for the information man, its so unbelievable how he composed such music during his teen, truly amazing!
@@khamkaiarolim9975
Yes he is...
Take care my friend, and thank you for your feedback.
God bless you!
@@levisalvini4110 ❤❤
Jason wasn't simply covering Yngwie in High School, he was playing that madness while simultaneously doing tricks with a yo-yo!
Meh, that's nothing! .. here is Perpetual Burn being play BY a Yoyo UA-cam.com/watch?v=mOY_v04ffjY
I thought that happened when he was playing "Eruption" by EVH... 🤔
Not true, he played Yngwie in high school but the Yo-yo stuff came later.
@@Sunedosa it happened in a gig during the Cacophony years...
I always thought Air was his most complete tune. Still, I do love this one too
I contacted Jason ..He responded , and I know the only way he communicates is with his eyes .Told him he was my inspiration.. Knowing what he has gone through and continues , Is my inspiration while I am a guitarist , had my thumb amputated and diagnosed with stage 4 cancer . I attribute my staying power and enduring , partly due to Jason taking time out of his life for me .. He has lifted so many not only through his music , But his God given Grace to touch others like me
...pardon my language, but ...damn. You are a force to be reckoned with, sir/ma'am.
F*ck. I hope you make it. Me and my cats send positive energy to you!
Where is the cancer?
@@daviclar867 Where is the cancer ? It's in my brain , 3 tumors . Oddly it started in my right thumb , My sister an RN never even knew it could start there . Initially a Dr thought it was a fungal infection beneath my thumbnail , It blackened and got worse , Thought I might have even smacked it with a hammer . After a year I went to a hand surgeon and he immediately said it looks like melanoma , Regardless the thumb has to be amputated . He biopsied and a few days later came back malignant melanoma . Had a biopsy of my lymph nodes that same day of amputation , Came back cancerous and elevated to Stage 3 , That triggered scans of my lungs and brain . Since this is where melanoma generally goes to . The scans came back with 3 brain tumors . One deep in the basal ganglia ,another in the parietal lobe .Elevated to stage 4 . .. The simplest name of the cancer I have is Stage 4 Melanoma that has spread to the brain . The oncologist expected last year to give me 3 months to live , Told me melanoma is one of the deadliest forms and life expectancy is grim . Ironically the day I got a proper diagnosis is about the same day The Covid insanity began , March 17th 2020 . I've lost count of how needles I've had , Probably 80 hospital , cancer centers , numerous MRI's, PET and CAT scans . I have undergone a form of radiation called Truebeam that focuses beams of protons onto the tumors , I haven't gone through what is generally known as Chemo -Therapy , I am being infused with Immuno-therapy in a clinical trial sponsored by Bristol Mayer and grants to my hospital for study . Supposedly chemo does little for the brain since it can't transit the blood / brain barrier to kill the cancer , I am undergoing a relatively new drug " Opdivo " that time is showing has promise . .. Generally when someone hears Stage 4 . It'll put you through a rollercoaster of emotions . By The Grace of God , Great Dr's and nurses , Keeping up the Faith, , Laughing , Acceptance and the reaching out of others .. Has sustained me !! Peace
Man, I'm in a similar situation. Good luck and keep fighting!🤘🏽
He wrote this when he was 16... undoubtedly the greatest guitarist of all time.
I completely agree!!
Now we are talking. Jason is an absolute treasure!
The arpeggios in this are so beautiful
His technique was perfect.
@@vroomerlifts no it was better than perfect
No one plays arpeggios like Jason did. The master ❤
Perpetual Burn Is a masterpiece.
Top 3 guitar "shred" album ever imo
@@malawigw Yep . This one, Vai 's passion and warfare and maybe some Marty Friedman' s would be my favorites. What about you?
My fav instrumental guitar album ever. Shredding, melody and feel. It's got it all
@@edwardsaw13 vais passion and yngwies first solo
@@joshmuz9018 Absolutely. Have you listened to Throat hole from his Raspberry Jam . What a powerful and deep track . Jason is One of a kind
What I have always appreciated about Jason Becker is his ability to hold a melody while still being an 80's guitar hero.
That's the classical music inspirations in him!
Why not some even younger Becker? Here, with Marty Friedman and Cacophony:
Cacophony - Concerto
Cacophony - Speed Metal Symphony
Amen
"Go off!" would rearrange Doug's mind.
Marty Friedman was the guitarist in the Megadeth video Holy Wars that Doug wasn't too impressed with. I say give Marty another chance with Cacophony!
@@ErikStone1 I say give Marty another chance with Megadeth. They recommended the least musical song by Megadeth, I say give him some Tornado of Souls or Hangar 18, Marty's playing in Megadeth is NOT unimpressive ahaha. But yeah Cacophony is pretty cool to suggest too
Marty himself said cacophony with Jason was not that good , composition wise .. just kids throwing stuff together.
Outstanding playing though.
"How many key changes would you like Mr Becker"
"Yes"
Pleeeease react to his classical composition "Serrana" . By far his most musical and complex piece. You will be blown away
please!!!!!
That sweeping section is one of a kind
mmmm I think dweller in the cellar is better.... any way serrana is sooo beautifull I love it too.
air tambien
@@boussusmudflood7907 lol funny u say that because jason said dweller in the cellar was the weakest track on perpetual burn haha
i love every piece by him though
What I love about Jason is that he was able to develop his own voice within the neo-classical realm. He was NOT an Yngwie clone. While Yngwie popularized neo-classical and contributed a ton to the genre, Jason was only riding the wave but still using his own "board". His compositions were filled with his own signature licks and progressions. I was so relieved to hear Pepetual Burn because it, instantly, offered a more positive contrast to Yngwie's more brooding and warmly rich ambience. Jason offered some diversity in approaching a shared genre. Jason also offered a more sprightly and sunnier timbre. But, obviously, we wasn't devoid of visiting a warmer or brooding approach. We hear this in Cacophony. But it's sheer musical ignorance to even suggest he was an Yngwie clone and it's only practical and smart to take advantage of a musical movement when the opportunity arises. That doesn't make you a clone.
Jason is a guy who breaks down everything note for note in his head, his dad puts the notes together and a masterpiece is written. Not a single note is not planned with Jason, he knew/knows exactly what hes doing. He is one of the best musician ever. That damn als 😔
Truly one of the greatest travesties of our time, that ALS robbed him of his mobility. But, conversely, one of the greatest gifts of our time is the fact that he's still with us, and composing music AS GOOD as his best!
Doug,
From the same album, "Air" is another piece you would probably dig. It starts with a neat keyboard intro that was performed by Jason.
I’ve always been partial to “Air” on that album. It’s a little fugue and I have always marveled at how a 19-year-old could come up with that piece and execute it so elegantly. Tasteful, not a wasted note.
Fastest I've ever clicked! Becker's such a huge inspiration, not just because of being a guitarist, but a genius composer and a hell of a warrior. Thank you Doug.
I'd recommend End of the Beginning also by Jason, amazing composition, you'll love it. And still on the Neoclassical topic I'd recommend Rhapsody of Fire - Wings of Destiny too.
Every person could learn so many life lessons from Jason. Such an inspiration to me.
yeah that is a master piece along side Serrana
I recommend anything by Jason.
Rhapsody (of Fire) have some great stuff. Epic material.
@@TimGallant those First 6 albums still astound me after 13 years listening. There's just so much music there
You should check out End of the beginning from Jason as well!
If you like this, you'd love Tony MacAlpine... brilliant yet very under-rated guitarist. EDIT - try "Tears of Sahara". So beautiful!
Tony is extremely underrated, he's a top musician
Tony is criminally underrated. Apart from his solo work, he played guitar and/or keyboards with a lot of guitarists from that era, sometimes helping with the production. He has evolved as an artist, breaking out initially as a Neo-classical guitar player (à la Becker, Malmsteen) and later moving to a more jazz/jazz-fusion style. Pushing, searching for that intersection of beauty and originality. He is equally gifted as a keyboard player. Very humble, understated gentleman.
Would be nice to see Planet X become a bit more well known
Yes, very underated! The whole Maximum Security album is great!
@@metalmark1214 I have that original album on vinyl - was so pumped when it came out!
OMG I'VE WAITED FOR THIS ALL THIS TIME
Really happy to see Jason keeps reaching new ears. His musicianship is on a league of its own, and fortunately he managed to write more of it down into his second album, Perspective, which is mainly a symphonic record. He continues to write music, and his newest album has some beautiful compositions. He is also a wonderful human being.
i don't think anyone who isn't a guitarist, and really most guitarists, really realize how hard it is to emulate Jason's sound. you can play the notes, but never make it sound like him.
and he wrote all of this from age 12 then recorded it at 17.
absolutely mind blowing. he's truly the greatest guitarist and composer in recent history. so dynamic.
End of the beginning is an amazing track he composed when he was already diagnosed by als, it's also a more classical sound-like song. He wrote it but unfortunately he couldnt play it due his condition. If you ever do a reaction make sure to give the piece a fair shot and do the studio version and not the cut video one. Thank you.
That would be really interesting!
I always thought Jason was expressing his feelings through this song , a little story of his life... Michael Lee firkins was actually the guitar performer on this song as Jason wasn't able to play it by that time , he did incredible job!!!
hey ls its everyone
@@lautarotrefilio4773 lmao
this is the most beautiful guitar piece I've ever heard in my life
Check everything from Jason Becker... He's a freaking genius, one of the best musicians ever
That ending really keeps you hanging after that beautiful melodic moment but it allows the next track Perpetual Burn to slap you across the face. It's probably what Jason intended.
Yes, I think that was the idea :)
Yes!
I was looking for this comment, was going to post it. The whole album flows.
Finally Jason Becker’s music. But “Air” is where it’s at. He wrote it for his parents when he was 14 years old. It’s simply a masterpiece with lots of influence from Scarlatti.
Not even close, Altitudes is his masterpiece.
The brutality of Mabel’s Fatal Fable pips both of these masterpieces for me
Absolutely tragic to see.what happened to Jason. One of very few complete naturals on guitar. A true legend.
Stating that Jason is a genius is not enough to do justice to his talent.
He's litterally one of the best guitar players of all times. Perpertual Burn is, in my opinion, the best Neo-classical metal album of all times. It's a masterpiece.
I haven't heard Jason in a while and now I'm going to have to listen to this album on the way home from work. Oh darn
I hope Marty Friedman is on your list too, Doug! The album Dragon's Kiss came out the same year as Jason's Perpetual Burn. Of course you probably know they were in the same band, Cacophony, before their solo albums.
Upvote on reacting to Master Friedman, in my opinion one of the most tasteful guitar virtuoso, Introduction is one of my favourite albums to listen, it is the only guitar albums that I can listen on repeat all day long.
Seconding "Air" from the same album mentioned by others. "End of the Beginning" is also a very good recommendation from when ALS started affecting him more.
that shit is SO SAD I cant listen it anymore(end of the beginning)
How about digging into Allan Holdsworth, his music has been described as a "black hole" in jazz fusion music. The man was one of the most unique guitarists, and he had a completely unique approach to harmony and how he utilized scales, bitonalism, block chords, guitar effects and synthesizers as an improvisor and composer, made his music into a universe of its own. If Oliver Messiaen was a guitarist and had a guitarists approach to open voicings. He is commonly considered to be the greatest legato player of all time on the electric guitar. Holdsworth's the Sixteen Men of Tain, or perhaps Zarabeth summarizes what I speak of well. I think you will find his work and the musicianship to be mind blowing. He raised the bar of what I thought was possible on the guitar and in some ways on any instrument, in terms of fluidity, speed, precision, rythm, phrasing and effect usage etc.
Oh damn yes, I second that. Would be great to have Doug tell us about some Allan. I love Zarabeth (pun intended) !
Not only the greatest guitarist that ever lived, but, one of the greatest musicians too.
Hi Doug, you should definitely do AIR and SERRANA by Jason Becker. They are very much influenced by classical music, so it should be very interesting. Thank you for your videos!
Jason Becker is my hero. There is so much to learn from not only Jason’s music but his perseverance, human spirit and attitude. Long live Jason Becker. End of the beginning is a masterpiece
Please do End of the Beginning (studio version) by Jason Becker
This video made my night! I cant believe you finally made this video. been waiting for it❤
Thank you thank you for finally answering my request and reacting to this particular masterpiece by Jason...now I can stop requesting this one and move on to bugging you to do another one from this album like Eleven Blue Egyptians maybe!!!
Eleven Blue Egyptians , link?
@@NikosKatsikanis you can find this masterpiece of Jason's on here...enjoy!
@@trailrunner919 thx
@@trailrunner919 sheesh this is amazing and diverse
@@NikosKatsikanis💯🎸🔥🤯
Finally, Jason Becker Thank you, Doug. Do include Air.
Hard to listen to this without getting my eyes moist. Life can be so unfair... 19 years old, and already such level of talent and skills, just to end up being deprived from his talents by some disease. In a world were mediocrity reigns, specially in art these days.... so unfair.
Same for me.
we lost so many amazing young musicians at young age.
Be encouraged. Jason doesn't want anyone to feel sad for him. He's one in a zillion. Remember him at his best, respect him.
Tears in my eyes every time I hear this masterpiece and think about how unfair life is...
But, the blessing us that he is still with us, and still composing music as mind blowing as ever! He is a testament to the perseverance of the spirit!
How Beautiful to see you all still digging his music. The drummer on Most of those records was one of my teachers/Friend . Atma Anur. So I became a fan of Jason. We used to write to each other during the Holidays. Super nice guy.
People recommended a few other pieces such as Air from the same album, and others from Cacophony's Speed Metal Symphony such as the title track Speed Metal Symphony itself and Concerto, and I think these are great, but check out Images from Cacophony's second album as well.
concerto is one of my favorite tracks ever. if only the production was a little better.
Dude your ability to hear the chord changes, rhythms, etc blows my mind. I'm super envious! You have a fantastic ear.
Jason Becker is a true genius!!!!!!
He's The most inspirational guitarist I've found YET, still writes like you said
Please analyze Air by Jason Becker next!
Please eee aiirrr
he cant 😛
You are covering a lot of my favourite guitarists like Jason, Yngwe, Vai. It's amazing to see you enjoy their music. Makes me feel like a proud dad.
Biggest reaction I've been waiting for.
Now you HAVE to do Air or Images from Cacophony (Jason's band with Marty Friedman -Another absolute monster)
You chose this song! Thank You! I am one of the proud requesters.
Ah, Jason Becker, a name you generally don't hear as often anymore. I remember how it took about two months in 2005 for the CD to arrive at the store.
Every time I listen to this piece I keep thinking about how Jason was writing and recording it, with his whole life laying ahead of him, a true genius, and he had no clue what was waiting for him around the corner. Always breaks my heart because this album is a pure brilliance and we all can only imagine what could have he become.
Check out his former partner, Marty Friedman. Thunder March is a good introduction.
Marty was smart. Over 15 years ago, he moved to Japan and became a Japanese dude.
"Jewel (feat. Jason Becker) and Forbidden City" too.
@@armandoaraujo6128 the album Introduction from Marty is my absolute favourite guitar album, bar none. Not complicated or fast or anything, just tasteful, beautiful piece of art. I can listen to it non stop.
@Leonardo Postacchini listen to scenes by him if you haven’t although i’m sure you have, if you haven’t you’ll love it, it’s my favorite album of all time
@@Jerry-nu2rs Scenes changed me.
I'm sure it has been mentioned as I am a little late to comment but the way it ends leads beautifully into the next song on the album.
Used to have this song on tape and played it until the tape broke. Never knew the name of the song and could not find it and it on Spotify. What a great find ❤️
Love your reaction to the end!
Thát "What??" was exactly how I finished listening to this song back in the day 😅
Jason is still musically amazing but his technical skills were just miles beyond anything we had heard up until that point - Jason's and Marty Friedman's first album with Cacophony is still a milestone.
Check out The end of the beginning. Amazing guitarist but amazing composer too. Not just speed but soul.
I was just about to tell you how I enjoy your videos and commentary immensely. And, how this is valuable information to Me as a drummer/piano player. But, then I saw Jason Becker watched your video too... I'm just amazed... Inspirational... Thanks so much, Doug.
Why are there so many drummers that play piano? I was just wondering, is that because of contrast melody and rhythm?
@@LogioTek Wonder no more!
Yes, I'd say that's a correct assessment about rhythm and melody. I might add that I knew more guitarists than pianists/keyboardists with similar musical taste when I made the decision to learn a second instrument.
Jason is an absolute treasure. Also check out Tony Macalpine who was on the same record label.
He fused some Chopin into his style and not only a stellar guitarist, but an accomplished pianist/keyboardist as well.
Never saw Doug being amazed liked that.
Speaks for Jason. Best guitarist ever. He’s like making his guitar crying in the most beautiful way I’ve ever heard.
For a modern guitar virtuoso you should really hear Guthrie Govan. Besides his insane technical chops he also has an encyclopedic knowledge of music theory and an amazing ear for improvisation. Anything he's done with The Aristocrats is excellent, but Bad Asteroid is a great starting place. I'd recommend the live version from "Boing, We'll Do It Live."
You are so right, he is on different level.
I got his album when I was around 17 or so, and Jason Becker is only a year or two older than me...I went back to the woodshed after hearing it. Have followed him ever since. Glad to see you checking him out.
Anything from Marty Friedmans "Dragons Kiss" album. He and Jason played together in a band called Cacophony and did two albums. They then each went solo and did other projects.
Thing I always loved about Jason Becker is that he wasn't just always fast fast fast like malmsteen. He left time to be expressive and develop his themes. Lots of emotion and obviously skill beyond words.
Jason's Perpetual Burn album really is the pinnacle of this genre. Many commenters have recommended that Doug react to Air next (I wholeheartedly agree) but to me Mabel's Fatal Fable is an underrated and underrecognized masterpiece which will blow his mind. It's definitely worthy of a reaction video.
That, or Eleven Blue Egyptians. What a mind-blowing album!
I bought this in high school...I also started playing guitar in high school right around this time. Becker and I are the same age, and I'm just now getting comfortable enough to play these songs on guitar. Ugh! Just spun this vinyl tonight along with some new Marty Friedman. This is an album I've listened to consistently for 33 years!!
Now that you've tasted a bit of the 80s Shrapnel Recorrds stuff, you should check out Jason's running mate, Marty Friedman, Tony Macalpine, Vinnie Moore, Greg Howe, Michael Lee Firkins (who came a couple years later than the previous names). So much talent at that label.
God's looking down on Jason Becker saying not now son, You've got a few left in you and they'll change the world🤘 his life has been a story of pure will and a story of a man that won't surrender under any circumstances. A hero to many. A genius. A legend. And without knowing or meeting him has changed my life. Made me truly realize everyday is a gift and to make the most of every second because nothing is certain in life. I'm sure many people feel that very same way, proof enough you have indeed already changed the world for the better 🕊️
Air has to be the one. It’s absolutely unbelievable
I asked for this a month ago. Thanks for appreciating Jason. He was amazing.
Jason is an inspiration to us all!
I'm so happy you featured this. Becker is so special. I also think you'd dig Air which is very different to Altitudes
You need to review Tony MacAlpine. Brilliant guitarist and pianist
I second that. Toby MacAlpine is so underrated.
Jason my brother keeps fighting, we are same age,just had my birthday. I play guitar also but Jason has made through all levels. Love my brother
Awesome! You should check out End of the Beginning by Jason Becker!!!
I LOVE IT! Genuine, professionally angled reactions to this is highly appreciated.
Loved that album and Jason's music. What he does simply is jawdropping. It's always interesting what you have to say about the music you react to on this channel. I really appreciate your content and your expertise. I'm sure you must have heard of the band Wintersun and their famous live rehearsal videos from their 2nd studio album Time I. Just in case you don't have that one on your list: I highly recommend to check out Sons of Winter and Start at Sonic Pump Studios. Cheers!
Whoop we have Sir Jason on the channel... long may his work continue with your input and review Doug ... Thank You for this
You have to listen to Air by Jason Becker, it's a beautiful piece of music.
Great analysis Doug, and nice that you chose my all time favorite guitar hero and this great guitar composition 🙏🤩
Glad to hear Jason's magic on your channel. You should also check out the tracks on his Perspective cd - End of the Beginning or Serrana.
Fantastic video reaction. I not only remember the day this album came out (which was also the day that I picked it up, along with Marty Friedman’s Dragon’s Kiss), I remember *waiting* for it come out, as Shrapnel started with the ads well in advance of the release date. Still have my original copy. If memory serves, I believe that Jason recorded this opus when he was 18.
Jason was and still be one of the Guitar Composer Gods of all time. A blessing not just for guitar world but for Music itself too. An absolute Maestro, technical and melodic Virtuoso, and as far as i read and heard around an unique lovely and humble Man.
He's never heard these songs before in his life, yet he (almost) always knows how they're gonna play out within 15 seconds. A true mark of a genius composer.
With regards to the ending........ I really see this album as an album listen rather than individual tracks so the way it just hangs there isn't such a big deal IMO because track 2 (Perpetual Burn) seems to scoop it up quite nicely.
As with all these things though, YMMV.
Doug, I am enjoying your series immensely. AFA the state of electric guitar, the past 30 years have produced an unprecedented crop of virtuosos - Becker, Malmsteen, Vai, Petrucci, Loureiao (sp), Gilbert, MacAlpine, and more recently on the horizon, Bielatowicz and Gillette. Dozens more to mention, I know...
But the grandfather of 20th century electric guitar was Allan Holdsworth (D.2017). Without a doubt. Ask any of this pantheon, and they kneel in awe. The reason is Holdsworth possessed not only near-godlike composition and technical skills (like others), he was ALSO able to improvise in real time within the composition, creating entire frameworks of lasting themes every eight bars that stand on their own, never to be repeated by him. And subsequently analyzed by head-scratchers all over the world.
Alex Skolnick posted a video of him rehearsing for a Holdsworth tribute. He said that first thing he had to do was slow everything way down so he could digest the chord changes. For me that spoke volumes. A guitar player the caliber of Skolnick had to slow things down so he could figure out what Holdsworth was doing.
@@NBLP7001 Steve Vai also has similar high opinion on Alan Holdsworth as does Shawn Lane, Paul Gilbert, Satriani and many others.
Hola Doug, excelente eleccion con el legendario Jason, te recomiendo Air del mismo disco, es simplemente brillante.
Para Agregar a esa increible cancion, el compositor Konstantin Kokourov realizo un "cover" de esta pieza (interpretada por la Scoring Berlin Symphony Orchestra, conducida por Bernhard Wünsch) y es algo que vale la pena ver y disfrutar, siendo que esta pieza la compuso Becker con 17 años encerrado en su habitacion.
Una completa locura.
Please keep reacting to his songs! They are all unique and incredible. He really is the God of sweeps.
Full analysis of "the end of the beginning" or "air" would be aaaaawesome🙌🏻💥💥💥
Its so amazing listening to hownyou can pick out the keys by ear and all the changes and dont miss anything
The album was released on Shrapnel Records SH-1035. Amazing stuff. At the same time SH-1036 Dragon’s Kiss - Marty Friedman was released. Amazing as well. Please react on a Marty song as well. Maybe “Thunder March”?
He is an outrageous musician. I love this one.
Blind Guardian-The Bard Song/Valhalla (Live at Wacken 2016) ever hear a choir with 75,000 people before?
About time Doug. This is just a Jason Becker appetizer. Songs like "air", "end of the beginning" and the "speed metal Symphony", "Images" that he play with Marty Friedman show off his virtuosity and talented song writing ability. And he was 17 when he played in Cacophony
Doug, I think you would like "Dreamer deceiver & Deceiver" or "Beyond the realms of death". Two of the greatest songs of Judas Priest
Why is someone Always cutting onions when fellow Jason Becker fans are in the comments? You guys rock.
Thanks for reviewing, Doug - new subscriber! \m/
Doug, you have to check out Jason Becker “Air” I believe this is right up your alley and would appreciate it a lot more then this song. Altitudes is nice but Air is contrapuntal with very impressive writing.
Thanks Doug. Jason Becker is such a great inspiration as a musician and as a person.
React "End of the beginning" by Jason Becker too.
Bless brother, welcome to a wonderful journey!!!!
You should check everything from him, he is on another level
Jason Becker is phenomenal. Love that you did this one.