PROGRESSIVE POWER METAL!
KenZiner's debut release "Timescape" explodes with it's unique
epic symphonic power metal. A elegant mixture of intricate
compositions, soaring vocals and amazing guitar playing.
Produced by legendary guitarist/producer David T. Chastain at
3 different studios in the United States, this release should
become one of the top debut releases in 1998. The musical and
lyrical journey encompassed in this release will take the
listener to what seems like many places and lifetimes all
fueled by the astonishing power of the music of KenZiner.
KenZiner features 24 year old guitarist Jarno
Keskinen from Finland and vocalist extraordinare Stephen Fredrick from Atlanta. Jarno composed all of the
music, played all of the electric and acoustic guitars, bass and
keyboards on the group's debut recording Timescape. Jarno
first picked up the electric guitar at 11 and was immediately
impressed with some of the popular heavy metal bands of the
times such as Iron Maiden and Wasp. Later at around 16 as
Jarno improved his abilities he became enthralled with
classical greats such as Bach, Vivaldi, Paganini and Corelli. At
this point Jarno became heavily involved with classical violin
sequences, arpeggios, minor diminished chromatic runs and
practiced heavily each and every day.
In 1994 Jarno sent a demo tape to Leviathan Records which
caught the ear of David T. Chastain. David encouraged Jarno to
continue writing and send in additional materials. In 1997
David decided to produce Jarno's first cd stating, 'There are a
lot of great guitarist in the world but what sets Jarno apart
from the rest is his incredible compositions.'
Joining Jarno on this recording are 2 musical greats in their
own right. Dennis Lesh (Trouble, Chastain, Stygian) handled the
extremely complicated drumming. Dennis's experience helped
add maturity to the intensity and reworked some of the
original parts to make the release sound more heavy and less
busy.
On vocals is the very talented Stephen Fredrick. Stephen has
been involved with many well known acts in the past such as
MCA recording artist Billy The Kid, producer/guitarist Brendan
O'Brien, Atomic Shelter/Bruno Langer and David T. Chastain.
Stephen comes from influences with more emotional content
as opposed to just screamers. David says, 'We auditioned
singers from all over the world for this project but Stephen's
emotional delivery fit the music absolutely perfect.' 'Originally
this record was planned to showcase Jarno, but halfway
through the recording it was obvious to everyone that the
vocals were equal in brilliance.' Stephen can also play a little
guitar so he understands the talents of Jarno and therefore
there is a mutual admiration amongst all players.
Jarno choose to play all the other instruments on the cd other
than drums. 'No one we auditioned could handle the parts as
well as I could in the studio,' Jarno states. 'However we are
now actively searching for a full time bassist and keyboardist
for the next cd and any touring for Timescape.'
While the music itself runs the full gamut from massive
musical chops to subtle acoustical brilliance, the lyrical
content centers on the journeys of soul mates throughout time.
A deep and sorrowful journey where they try and try again to
return to a time where all was perfect, the Land of Shadows.
All 11 tracks on this recording are absolutely astounding. On
most cds there are usually a weak track or two. Not in the case
of Timescape. Each track provides great songwriting, musical
excellence and Stephen's extraordinary vocals. KenZiner and
Jarno Keskinen have created a masterpiece in Timescape that
should withstand the hands of time to become one of the true
classics in heavy music.
"The Prophecies" is available worldwide! David T. Chastain once again produced the recording. Vocalist Stephen Fredrick proves he is one of top vocalists in Metal with this Cd. A masterpiece for the new ages!!
Also now available on VINYL!
Cds, downloads and streaming!
THE PROPHECIES
KENZINER Worldwide Press!!
KENZINER Photos
Jarno Keskinen Interviews
