ANDREAS KISSER - Hubris I & II  (DOUBLE CD - Jewel Case)

Andreas Kisser, renowned as one of extreme metal’s most accomplished lead guitarists for nearly two decades, has finally unveiled his debut solo album, Hubris I & II. However, this double-CD release is far from what you might expect. It’s neither a shred-heavy guitar showcase nor a traditional metal record. Instead, Hubris I & II is a vivid exploration of Kisser’s deep-rooted love for classic rock, classical guitar, Eastern music, Brazilian percussion, and a variety of other Brazilian genres. The album proudly exudes an authentic Brazilian essence throughout its runtime.

The first disc, Hubris I, centers around electric guitar but features acoustic elements woven seamlessly into the mix. The opening tracks, “Protest!” and “Euphoria/Desperation,” serve as a warm introduction before “Eu Humano” bursts onto the scene with its infectious hooks and Kisser’s own dynamic vocal performance. This track, highlighted by a searing guitar solo, is among the album’s standouts. “A Million Judas Iscariotes” follows, blending a hypnotic sitar intro with heavy rock grooves and a distinctly Eastern flair. Across the disc, Kisser delivers a wide array of textures, moods, and styles, with guest vocalists—singing in Portuguese—enhancing the songs with their distinctive contributions. While some may anticipate fretboard pyrotechnics, Kisser instead prioritizes feel and melody, crafting solos that serve the song rather than overpower it. The result is a collection of “tasty and tasteful” leads, full of character.

Hubris II, in contrast, shifts gears entirely. This acoustic and classical guitar-driven disc is mostly instrumental and offers a more delicate, introspective experience. The arrangements are rich with nuance, allowing every instrument to shine. A standout track, “0120,” features a classical composition complemented by a wind quintet of bassoon, flute, clarinet, French horn, and oboe. The music here is subtle yet captivating, rewarding attentive listeners with its intricate layers and refined artistry.

Hubris I & II isn’t an album that aims to impress on first listen. Instead, its strength lies in its depth and the subtleties of Kisser’s songwriting. With time, its craftsmanship becomes clear, transporting listeners far from the world of SEPULTURA to a space where Kisser’s artistic vision truly flourishes. And that, as it turns out, is a remarkable achievement.