The Will Rogers of shred

It's not exactly a coincidence that ear X-stacy II--with its balance between madcap instrumentals and vocal tunes--is a thematic bridge between the ear X-stacy and the catchy harmony clusters of the Vinyl album. "I mean, I certainly tried to make the first ear X-stacy as listenable and interesting to the non-musician as possible," Timmons explains. "But it's also true that anytime you add vocals to guitar-oriented music, as on the new stuff, it's kind of an effort to move in a more accessible direction." Either way, as far as Timmons' music is concerned, listeners seem to be undergoing a broadening acceptance of different styles. His conscious blend of shred and lush melody could well make him a hot property--from the least expected arena in contemporary rock.

Timmons grins. "I've structured my career and my life so that I'm doing well without the 'major label American deal.' But if it happens, I can have a good time with that, too.