Last Day in Paradise puts another facet to Skolnick's ability, and I want to hear more! The album features seven original compositions with three jazz translations of rock tracks mixed in. The translated songs are Rush's "Tom Sawyer," which is nearly unrecognizable during stretches before slipping into those familiar notes that we all know, next is a song the Alex co-wrote with his Testament bandmates, "Practica Lo Que Predicas (Practice What You Preach)," which is given the jazz by way of Latin treatment, finally there is the Ozzy/Randy Rhoads track "Revelation (Mother Earth)."

To steal a phrase, this album is "all killer and no filler." It is an album that you can lay back and groove to, or listen close and listen to each of the band member's considerable contribution. Skolnick's playing is smooth, clean, and unlike anything I had heard of his before. He plays with an assured confidence that is not exactly flashy, but none the less fanastic to listen to. Bassist Nathan Peck lays down some great bass grooves, particularly on "The Lizard." Finally there is drummer Matt Zebroski, who is solid and  compliments each song delivering snappy hits that are considerably different than the metal drummers I am used to hearing.

Bottomline. This is an impressive album, the complete package of musicianship and songwriting. Skolnick continues to impress after all these years. If you want something to groove to and get some impressive fretwork at the same time, this is an album to check out. I, for one, was impressed.

Highly Recommended.