Norifumi Shima

Name: 島紀史 Norifumi Shima
Born: 1st May, 1970 (Osaka, Japan)

Profile: He is a Japanese metal guitarist and songwriter. His impressive style has already made him a guitar hero in his native Japan, and has gained a considerable following overseas as well.

History: He has been playing piano since he was 4 years old following his brother footsteps and evolved to guitar when he was 13, and started to play in bands when he was 16. In 1983 he happened to see a "Rainbow" videoclip where Ritchie Blackmore played the guitar, which led the young musician to take up the guitar seriously. Two years later he was playing an important role in the band "Dion" and formed the later, highly praised band "Crystal Clear" in 1994. After three eventful and formative years, "Crystal Clear" split up, yet within months Norifumi formed "Concerto Moon".

Influences: Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Yngwie Malmsteen and Uli Jon Roth (Scorpions)

Axology: Fender Squier Stratocaster

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGFkV77g_iY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HopdfI1a-VM