Former MEGADETH Guitarist MARTY FRIEDMAN Featured On Japan's 'Sweet Jam'

August 30, 2009

Former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman is the featured guest on two separate episodes of BS-Japan's "Sweet Jam". The show features a rare look into his private life as well as a performance of a song from his latest solo album, "Tokyo Jukebox". Broadcast times are Thursday, September 17 at 10:00 p.m. and Thursday, September 24 at 10:00 p.m.

In other news, Friedman will perform live in concert with Aikawa Nanase on September 9 at C.C. Lemon Hall in Tokyo.

Aikawa Nanase, whose debut single sold over six million copies, is an influential singer in Japan with legions of dedicated fans.

Although they have mainly collaborated between 2003 and 2006, Friedman still works with Aikawa at times in several capacities, from years of touring together in and out of Japan, to recording (he plays on the "Seven" and "R.U.O.K.?!" albums) to producing the English version of her hit single "Everybody Goes". He can also be seen on several of her live DVDs. Marty mentions her in his first book as "giving him his first break" into the world of J-pop.

Also on the Friedman front, jazz/fusion legend Katsumi Watanabe has invited Marty to share the stage with him at his special October 11 concert in Tokyo after seeing one of Friedman's television performances and hearing "Tokyo Jukebox".

"Tokyo Jukebox" was released in Japan on May 20 via AVEX. The CD was produced and arranged by Marty and it reflects the chaotic lifestyle of Tokyo, its unique music and Marty's futuristic interpretation of it. According to a posting on Marty's web site, "Sonically, it goes from his 'Loudspeaker' lineup all the way to a 70-piece symphony orchestra. Marty covers the most unlikely artists to get his guitar heavy treatment, including PERFUME, MAXIMUM THE HORMONE, AI, NAKASHIMA MIKA, IKIMONO GAKARI and seven other staples in the world of current Japanese music."

Check out "Tokyo Jukebox" audio samples at this location.

Friedman commemorated "Tokyo Jukebox"'s release by taking part in a "secret live event" atop Tokyo Tower on May 19. There were two shows, both filled to capacity, and all who attended were treated to Marty's first time performing these new songs in public, high above Tokyo's night skyline. Autograph sessions were held after each show.

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