Slash vs. Herman Li – Greatest Metal Guitarist, Round 1

Guns N' Roses' ‘Appetite for Destruction’ is in the pantheon as an untouchable, perfect album replete with angst and aggression, where every song is just as good as the last. Slash must have something special in that top hat of his because his fingers lay waste to any guitar he touches. His playing is not flashy like a lot of others with his prestige, but he just knows exactly what notes to play and when. Slash has gone on top showcase his talents in Velvet Revolver and his solo band, continuing to score hits along the way.

Herman Li plays his guitar like a video game soundtrack. DragonForce are a 1000 mph power metal band, all thanks to this guy’s other worldly playing. It’s almost impossible to headbang to Dragonforce unless you dream of severing your head from your body --because their music is just so fast. Li’s guitar solos are of legend, gaining popularity from their inclusion in the Guitar Hero video game series. The solo is difficult enough to play with five buttons on a guitar controller, never mind on the real deal with six strings and 24 frets.

Slash or Herman Li? Cast your vote for the Greatest Metal Guitarist in the poll below! Voting for this round closes on Sunday, July 21 at 11:59PM ET. Fans can vote once per hour, so keep coming back to make sure that your favorite metal musician wins!