Lars Eric Mattsson

A multi-talented Finnish guitarist, producer, and songwriter, Lars Eric Mattsson was one of the early developers of the neoclassical metal movement. Citing a wide array of influences, including Jimi Hendrix, Ritchie Blackmore, Johnny Winter, and Al DiMeola, Mattson was initially drawn to the bass, but switched to guitar in his early twenties. Discovered in 1985 by Mike Varney (Guitar Player Magazine and Shrapnel Records) in 1985 -- Mattson had already established himself regionally -- he released a four-track EP shortly before inking a deal with French independent label Black ...