With a penchant for 7 & 8 string progressive metal guitar, Scottish guitarist Gregor Docherty has recently unleashed his musical prowess in the form of his latest album, “Met by Empyreus Fire.” As the artist’s fifth studio album, this release showcases almost an hour and a half of meticulously crafted sonic eargasm that delves into the realms of innovation, darkness, brutality, and beauty.
Docherty’s signature sound is a testament to his technical mastery, constantly pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved on the guitar. Renowned for his 8-string arpeggios, 8-finger tapping, lightning-fast alternate picking, and more, he weaves a tapestry of complexity, intersecting long-form instrumental pieces with elements of folk and world music. His commitment to a unique vision in the realm of progressive metal is evident, with no compromise on the pursuit of innovation.
The track listing for “Met by Empyreus Fire” reads like an epic journey through Docherty’s sonic universe, with each composition surpassing the ten-minute mark. From the hauntingly titled “Blood Red Snow Falls Not From The Sky (Ruin On The Mountainside)” to the sprawling epic “Met By Empyreus Fire (The Navigator, In Terminal Decline),” Docherty’s music is not just a display of technical prowess but a narrative journey filled with allegoric concepts, drawing inspiration from historical, political, philosophical, religious, science fiction, and mythological themes.
Docherty’s influences, rooted in the likes of Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Yngwie Malmsteen, and the metal giants Metallica, have shaped his musical trajectory. Yet, his love for power and progressive metal, coupled with admiration for virtuoso solo guitarists like Shawn Lane and Jeff Loomis, has added layers of complexity to his compositions. A keen admirer of Scottish folk music and a voracious learner of diverse world music styles, Docherty’s playing reflects a rich tapestry of influences that shines through in every note.
“Met by Empyreus Fire” is not just a collection of guitar solos; it’s a showcase of Docherty’s commitment to the art of storytelling through music. In a world where the market often favors shorter, more accessible compositions, Docherty’s refusal to compromise on the depth and meaning of his work is a refreshing dedication to the true essence of progressive metal. As listeners embark on this musical odyssey, they will find themselves immersed in a world where technicality meets emotion, and innovation meets tradition.
In a world where the market often favors shorter, more accessible compositions, Docherty's refusal to compromise on the depth and meaning of his work is a refreshing dedication to the true essence of progressive metal
