Speed Metal Messiah

Andy Craven at Virtuosityone.com writes in his review of Joe Stump's 2004 CD, "Speed Metal Messiah sees Stump raise his game in every department. The first major apparent improvement is the production of this album - sonically this album is superb with a very clear mix and great separation between the instruments (the album was mixed by Reign Of Terror vocalist Michael Vescera). In addition Joe has really honed his instrumental crafting skills and the sound now is firmly his own. Lastly the actual playing itself has taken several more steps up the ladder (never one thing Stump has been lacking for sure) with the whole guitar work just sounding supremely confident and really going for the jugular with its precision, skill and sheer energy. With Speed Metal Messiah, Joe Stump has delivered the album his previous releases have all hinted at. This release is home to sheer class in every department with enough sonic tapestries to make even the most hardcore guitar nut die with ecstasy, yet enough focus and restraint (where required) to make the album appealing to those not so impressed by instrumental releases."