What makes Intermezzo by Michael Angelo Batio notable?

Intermezzo received critical acclaim within the instrumental rock community, highlighting Batio's technical skill and compositional depth. The album solidified his status as a pivotal figure in the neo-classical metal scene, influencing aspiring guitarists and musicians exploring complex, melody-driven compositions. Released in 2013, Intermezzo represents Michael Angelo Batio's continued exploration of virtuosic instrumental music following his earlier work in the genre. This album arrives after a series of influential releases, showcasing Batio's prowess and commitment to pushing the boundaries of guitar performance.

How many songs are on Intermezzo?

Intermezzo has 10 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Intermezzo

Michael Angelo Batio · 2013

55 min · 10 tracks · neo-classical metal

Intricate guitar solos intertwine with symphonic arrangements, creating a vibrant tapestry of neo-classical metal.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Intermezzo — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its sweeping melodies and technical flourishes, setting the stage for the entire listening experience.
→
Oceans of Time — This track features expansive guitar arrangements that reflect Batio's signature style while also showcasing emotional depth through its melodic progression.
→
Juggernaut — With its driving rhythms and complex riffs, Juggernaut exemplifies the energetic and intense aspects of Batio’s playing, making it a standout piece on the album.
→
I Pray the Lord — This track stands out for its blend of lyrical themes and instrumental prowess, demonstrating Batio’s ability to combine storytelling with technical mastery.
→
8 Pillars of Steel — A showcase of intricate guitar work, this track highlights Batio's innovative approach to composition within the neo-classical framework.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Batio's technical skill shines through intricate compositions and symphonic arrangements, making it a solid entry in neo-classical metal.

What we noticed

Symphonic arrangements underpin the guitar work, with orchestral elements weaving in and out of the tracks, creating a rich soundscape.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Intermezzo 4:53
2 Kaleidoscope Images 5:22
3 Oceans of Time 6:33
4 I Pray the Lord 6:10
5 8 Pillars of Steel 9:02
6 The Possession (A Tone Poem) 4:43
7 5 Four Ever 5:44
8 Juggernaut 4:36
9 Overload (intro) 0:46
10 Overload 7:52

What to play next

Listen next

Shred Force 1: The Essential MAB

2015

Go back to

Hands Without Shadows 2 – Voices

2009

Full Michael Angelo Batio discography Artists like Michael Angelo Batio

neo-classical metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata