The Rediscovered: Chris Schatz

Never sacrificing melody for technique, and making sure that music is more than just a collection of learned licks and phrases perfectly describes the music of guitarist Chris Schatz on his demo CD-R. Featuring seven instrumentals in number of different styles (rock, blues, pop, etc.), the demo is a showcase for his singing, soulful style. Does this mean he can't 'shred' if called upon to do so? Not a chance. Schatz actually has chops to spare, as a number of pieces ("Legends", "Car Fun", "Hell Blues", etc.) amply demonstrate. In contrast to a lot of players who overuse their abilities, Schatz keeps his technique in check, bringing it out and letting it surface when the music demands some aggression, fury, passion or simple burst of energy. His demo is very well put together and his musical direction is clear and purposeful - hopefully a full length commercial CD is the next step for this young, talented Austrian. Chris Schatz was originally profiled in the October-November, 2002 edition of The Undiscovered.

Born in Austria in 1973, Chris began from the age of 12 to teach himself the guitar, and within a short time he started practicing intensively . From 1988 to 1989 he played in the melodic rock band King Size, followed by stints in bands such as Frontliners (Austrian Country Awards winners). During this time he acquired skills in various styles, including fusion, blues and funk, and gained extensive live concert experience during tours of Austria and abroad. Chris founded the blues/rock trio Medicine Men in 1995, where he took the role of guitar player and singer. It was in 1998 that he finally began to develop his own ideas into instrumental guitar music.

Schatz aim is to strike the perfect balance between melody and virtuosity, treating both elements equally. He hopes in this way that his music has the potential to reach a wider audience.

Christoph Schatz
Austria

Web site: www.home.pages.at/guitar