VIO 7 is a rock group that is venturing in uncharted territories of rock music by using 7-string electric rock violin as a lead instrument, instead of guitar.The leader of the group Armand Melnbardis , well known for his immaculate playing skills as classical player, is clearly proven that he can challenge any guitar player with his driving rock riffs and soaring solos. His violin playing possesses power and range far beyond the capabilities of a guitar.Drummer Billy Dean is simply amazing. When he breaks into a drum solo during the live shows, he usually brings the house down. He us arguably one of the most talented young up and coming drummers in the U.S. right now. Monster player with chops to impress anyone, be it metal or jazz.Since the duties of electric guitar are replaced with a rock violin, Scott Queen often faces an additional task to double as a „rhythm guitarist“, while maintaining his solid yet elaborate bass lines. With Jason Boekelheide on the keyboards, have got to see and hear it to believe it!VIO 7 has received a lot of positive feedback and numerous CD reviews throughout the USA and even from foreign rock/metal webzines. The highly respected German ROCKTIMES calls Armand „The devil violinist who sets off fireworks with his unbelievable violin performance“, CLICK HERE!The honorable webzine METAL MONTHLY and it's founder Omar Rayna nominated Armand Melnbardis as FEATURED ARTIST. Please listen to the full-length audio interview which goes in a great detail about the ins and outs of Armand as a heavy metal violin player. CLICK HERE!