RELEASE
July 4th 2025
FORMATS
- Digital Download and Streaming
TRACKLISTING
- Don't Look Back
- Broken Heart
- Highway Star
- I Need Your Love
- Better Off Dead
- Don't Play Fair
- Heartless
- Guitar Concerto In Dm
- Day By Day
- Take A Little
- Light In The Sky
ABOUT
Light in the Sky is the debut album by guitar virtuoso Joe Stump under the Reign of Terror banner, marking the first full statement of his vision outside of a traditional band framework. Released in 1996, the album introduced Stump as a formidable force within the neo-classical metal and shred guitar scene.
Best known for his dazzling technique and strong classical influences, Stump clearly wears his admiration for Yngwie Malmsteen on his sleeve throughout Light in the Sky. Sweeping arpeggios, rapid scalar runs, and Baroque-inspired phrasing dominate the record, firmly placing it within the lineage of late-’80s and early-’90s neo-classical metal. However, even at this early stage, Stump’s more aggressive instincts are evident, particularly in his heavier rhythm guitar approach and uncompromising lead tone.
Featuring Brian Sarvela (vox), Jamie Curci (drums and keys) and John Risti (bass), Light in the Sky contains several strong compositions, chief among them is “Broken Heart,” a standout track that has since come to be regarded as a minor classic within Stump’s catalog, balancing melodic sensibility with blistering guitar work.