FLAMETAL's 4th (self titled) album is here defining the genre it created; Flamenco and Metal. This defies all expectations of an instrumental guitar album. "I've always thought of Flamenco Guitar Music as kind of like 'Acoustic Speed Metal', so with this album, I really expanded upon that idea." says Woods. In a world of clones and 'guitar shredder' albums, this goes way beyond the beaten path. This is really a true fusion of both styles, blending seemlessly and natural, keeping the authenticity of both where it needs to be, considering the discerning taste of the listeners of Flamenco music and Metal music. Speaking about the Flamenco side, we hear the acoustic Spanish Guitar in all it's beauty, with a clean and pristine quality. Flamenco rhythms are done justice by a musician who has obviously spent years studying authentic Flamenco guitar accompaniment and is just as comfortable playing a fiesta in Spain, as he is fronting a speed metal band. Many of the songs are labeled with their authentic song forms (bulerias, sevillanas, etc.) adhering to the 'compas' (Flamenco's specific rhythms). Speaking about the Metal side, we have here a great modern production with old school mixing sensibilities; you can actually hear the bass, electric guitars galloping and harmonizing away, and drums crushing with utter tastiness. If you listen closely, you may hear influences from metal titans like King Diamond, Carcass, Maiden and Death. On this album Ben Woods where's all hats, as Cover Artist, Writer, Flamenco Guitars, Electric Guitars, Bass Guitars, Drums and other exotic instruments. However with some songs, he has employed the talents of some of Metal's finest: Marc Rizzo (Soulfly, Cavalera Conspiracy), Glen Drover (Megadeth, King Diamond, Testament), Sean Reinert (Death Cynic), and many more. Woods' raw energy combined with exotic and sophisticated acoustic playing and the talent of a new-generation shred-master is a much needed breath of fresh air to the instrumental rock genre.