Steeler

Steeler - featuring guitar legend Yngwie J. Malmsteen and Keel vocalist Ron Keel, with bassist Rik Fox and drummer Mark Edwards - was the Shapnel Records heavy metal release that introduced the world to neo-classical rock guitar legend Yngwie J. Malmsteen. Steeler was put together by Mike Varney, who had recently formed his new label, while Malmsteen had been making a name for himself in his native Sweden. Varney got his hands on Yngwie's now famous demo tape, and impressed with Malmsteen's playing, flew the 18-year-old guitarist to California and rushed him from the plane to the studio. The band quickly recorded the self-titled Steeler album, while, legend has it, Malmsteen slept on the pool table. The group later performed on a short tour, and before long the young Malmsteen was set to release his amazing Rising Force debut. Steeler brims with amazing axework from Malmsteen, including a long unaccompanied solo intro to the steaming anthem, "Hot On Your Heels". A metal guitar classic.