Before joining Megadeth in Feb.1990, Marty was in a band called Cacophony, which released 2 albums (among their indie label's highest selling) and toured the U.S. and Japan. This band highlighted the potent guitar playing of Marty and fellow guitarist Jason Becker (who was to join David Lee Roth's band and record an album with him in 1990). Marty has received extremely high acclaim and many awards around the world for his unmistakably `Marty-esque` way of playing the guitar.
Forbidden City
Marty Friedman Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
As the song is instrumental, there are no lyrics to interpret. Instead, the music speaks for itself. "Forbidden City" is a dynamic and evocative piece that takes the listener on a journey through various moods and soundscapes. The song starts with a haunting, Eastern-sounding melody played on a traditional Chinese instrument, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. As the song progresses, the intensity builds and the music becomes more driving and forceful, with bursts of frenzied guitar shredding and thunderous drumming.
One interpretation of this piece could be that it is a tribute to the ancient city of Beijing's Forbidden City, a former imperial palace that is now a major tourist attraction and World Heritage Site. The use of Chinese instruments and motifs throughout the song could be seen as a nod to China's rich cultural history and significance in the world. The shifting moods and tempos in the music could also represent the various emotions and experiences one might have while exploring a place as complex and fascinating as the Forbidden City.
Contributed by Savannah N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.