Jason Saulnier's High Voltage
Fighting Hard

January 2010
Released: 2009, Indie
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: Alan Gilkeson

Fairly well known in Nova Scotia for a long running Heavy Metal Radio show and numerous appearance and touring credits, Jason Saulnier's solo gig showcases his string bending talents in a manner quite virtuoso and brilliant. In spite of FIGHTING HARD's obvious flaws in the production and vocal departments, and even some loose ends in song structure, Jason's playing is first rate. He's dexterous, playing defiantly, at times with ferocious and brutal tremolo picking, others he's very subtle and tranquil.



Understandably, his soloing receives its just attention. The solo on 'Halls of Injustice' is so amazingly twisted and sick, speedy with sweet tone,... however, some of these riffs rattle with an old school Sabbath vibe, layered with that reverb which make the toes shake. The intro to 'Sweet Embrace', with Jason's tasty tone and intricate spacing, brings you back to mid 70's Iommi, perfect for emotive expression, and this is yet again another tune that goes from crazy slick riff to a well phrased solo.



Jason has made his way around the music circuit for quite a few years now, yet remains an untapped treasure in my estimate, a guitarist whose abilities compare with the greats. The solo for 'Hand of Faith' is rocking the speakers right now, and its mean shred rivals names like Chastain and Stump, dazzling work... without a doubt, he is one of the best around.