Archived Reviews: # A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Reviews Index
Indie 2003
Review by 
30 November 2003
Last year I reviewed a demo from TEARS, a band stylewise similar to HIM and Finnish other goth-rockers. The band had potential, but wasn't totally "there" yet. Now they have gone through some line-up changes, slight revamping of the style and re-emerged as DE ANIMA. "Inner Empty Place" is their new demo, and it clearly shows that they're on the right path.
Band leader Riku Kuukka has wisely handed out the vocal duties to one Ulla Tallinen, a girl with a nice, melancholic voice that suits these tracks "to a tee". The music has changed a bit too. The rather obvious HIM influence found on the Tears demo isn't quite as obvious anymore, and I may be wrong but I hear touches of all those critically acclaimed pop rock groups from UK, like Travis and Coldplay in these new songs. This combination of Goth Metal-styled dark melodies mixed with understated britpop is surely quite orginal and interesting.
The first and last tracks ("13" and "Passerby") are the most easily accessible ones, with cinematic, beautiful melodies - not the kind of hooks you'll fid yourself humming at work but enjoyable while listening to them. The arrangements are quite colourful and obviously a lot of effort has been put into them. Production is very good, and the packaging is again stylish.
I can imagine A&R guys being puzzled about De Anima. There's something here that might make them the darlings of the mainstream rock critics and one of the next big new bands from Finland, but there's always the danger of not appealing to the genre-conscious audience, as they might be too light for the gothic rockers and too gothic for "intellectual rock" crowd. Let's hope for the first option, and meanwhile, if my description of their sound made you curious, start by visiting the bands' website.
www.deanima.info
AOR Heaven 2004
Review by Kimmo Toivonen,
29 May 2004
Well it's been a while since we reviewed anything from swedish producer/guitarist/songwriter Tommy Denander's rock factory...was it last week? Seriously though, during the last two years Tommy's been very active, with numerous projects he's been ivolved with. Deacon Street is the latest one, and it's seems that "the well" isn't even close to drying up, as he has come up with a solid selection of songs once again.
Tommy says that "Sometimes it's fun to just write and record good music with good friends for the fun of it and not be so pretentious about it." I may be hearing things, but somehow one can hear the loose, relaxed vibe in these songs. Make no mistake, these recordings sound totally professional and polished...
The cast of the album is quite impressive: Jan Johansen (IGNITION), Jamie Meyer (Popstars), Bruce Gaitsch (RICHARD MARX, MADONNA), Marcel Jacob (TALISMAN, YNGWIE), Magnus Weinemo (SPIN GALLERY), Lars Chriss (LION’s SHARE), Jeff Northrup (XYZ) and SAYIT are all involved, although don't ask me who sings what or especially plays which part, I don't have that information.
The song selection is quite diverse. Many of the songs don't try to hide Tommy's love for the AOR legends Toto, but then there are some very pop-oriented songs which wouldn't sound out of place on a Backstreet Boys album. Interestingly enough, a pop song can be followed by a very hard rocking number, as it is with "Love Got A Hold Of Me" and "Find Me A Meaning". Both are quite good though.
The highlights include the brilliant opener "Radio" (where it should be played and a lot too!), somewhat nu-breed flavoured "Changes" and "I Don't Mind" and the Jan Johansen-sung ballad "Before I Loved Just You", which is actually one of the top ballads of this year. I can't say I dislike any of the songs, but a few don't make too much of an impression, such as "Living A Lie", "I Can't Go Back" and "Lost In A Moment", and that's why my rating won't go any higher. And what's that Toto-cover "Mad About You" doing here? It's also getting harder and harder to distinguish all these Denander-guided projects these days...Still, this album is a safe bet for anyone into AOR - you're not likely to be disappointed.
Deadline Music 2000
01-03-16
The Winners of last years *Battle of the Bands* at Oakwood, UK. South Yorkshire based DEADLINE brings us some good old *Brit Rock* mixed with classic AOR on their first release, the three track EP: All Things Considered. I know that many enjoyed their performance at the PHOENIX festival in England and I can understand why as this kinda guitar driven hardrock often sounds at its best live. Guitarist Lindsay reminds me of Brooke St.James (Tyketto).
The Music is very catchy indeed and you can hear influences both from 70´s Brit Rock a-la FREE, BAD COMPANY, etc. and they also remind me of bands such as TYKETTO and THUNDER. The production sounds pretty okay for an independent release that is.
Opener "Runaway" begins with some really cool guitar work and the rhythm section with Kris Hudson (Bass) and Chris Hayes (Drums) sounds really tight as they play some cool rhythm changes. Good song with a strong chorus. "Love´s a Battle" is an mid-tempo AOR song with a superb chorus and again some great guitar work by Andy Lindsay. Last track "Losing Myself" sounds like something that THUNDER could have done and it´s again a keeper for their full length album- Well let´s hope there will be a full CD soon as this British band really could be something with the right support and backing. Check ´em out at: www.deadlineuk.com and get in contact with the band at: progress@deadlineuk.com. Jolly Good work lads!!!
Indie 2001
01-12-02
Have you ever missed a Deadline? Then these guys will fit you like a glove. Not only will they not be angry for missing them once. They will gladly wait for you, to catch up with their music. And catch up you should! Especially if you enjoy classic, British hardrock mixed with some AOR.
Catchy Hooks readers may remember, that I reviewed their three track EP "All Things Considered" earlier this year. An EP they were given the chance to record. After winning the 'Oakwood Battle of the bands' contest. Which, by the way, was Deadline´s first ever gig. Talk about success, huh? They have also been playing support for bands such as: Vaughn, Kick, Contagious, Ten, Bob Catley. And they´ve just completed a pretty successful UK tour, supporting US rocker Mitch Malloy.
This kind of music (Deadline) will always be at its best live. After a couple of cold one´s this will go down just as easy as the beer. With a good grounding in the classic rock of Free or Thunder Deadline could be the perfect ending to good night out pub-ing. Songs like "Love´s A Battle" and "Losing Myself" has been followed up by a couple of cool tracks. "Dust To Dust" is a superb Thunder meets Badlands song with a catchy chorus. "Journey´s End" has a lovely groove and "Stop" is a nice ballad. Still, I must admit that I´m a bit disappointed with the songmaterial. Some of them simply do not stand the test of strength. And with only nine tracks 3-4 weaker one´s are a lot. My advise would be, try and find a couple of more great tracks like "Dust To Dust" or "Love´s A Battle". Only then can we talk some serious business! Then again... I could be wrong? Nah... and whatever happened to the song "Runaway"??? Check ´em out at: www.deadlineuk.com
Nuclear Blast 2004
Review by Martien Koolen, 
26 April 2004
Another Bay Area legend returns, following the mind blowing come back of Exodus it is now time for Death Angel to steal the spotlight again. They made their name between 1987 and 1990 with three excellent albums, of which “Act 3” was their masterpiece.
This new CD is Death Angel’s first album in 14 years and the good thing is that the line-up of the band is largely unchanged; only Gus Pepa left the band and he was replaced by Ted Aguilar. “Act 3”, released in 1990, is still seen as one of the most unique and essential thrash albums ever. In 2001 Death Angel reunited on the occasion of the Thrash of the Titans Festival and it was such a success that they were asked to do more shows. They played at the famous Dynamo Festival in 2002 and now two years later they finally release a new album.
On the promo of the record company are only five songs, but if the other 7 songs are as good as these then “The Art Of Dying” will become another milestone for Death Angel. “Thrown To The Wolves” is rather fast and really thrashy, as if time has stood still... “5 Steps Of Freedom” is an up-tempo hard rock song with an excellent guitar solo and the best song here is “The Devil Incarnate”, not a thrash song but rather melodic and diverse. This song has some doom riffs a la Black Sabbath and some amazing guitar stuff. “Famine” is a real speedy metal track that kicks off with a bass guitar riff and reminds me of Overkill now and then. Last but not least Death Angel treats us to the magnificent “Word To The Wise”, which starts as an acoustic track, but after 1,5 minutes it becomes really heavy; the song ends with a very nice acoustic guitar solo. I want more of this stuff; Death Angel is back and with a vengeance!!
Crook'd Records 2001
02-04-01
Deceased with King Fowley (vocals/drums) at the head of the pack, goes through their dusty vinyl collection and decides to record a tribute to heroes from the past? Yep... and to be honest... have we not all had this idea somehow? Wouldn't it be cool, if we all recorded a CD with our favorite tracks with our favorite bands?
Then again, maybe not! Just imagine the horror if Jizzy Pearl would sing.. oh... I don't know... "Open Arms" with Journey [the devil made me write it :-)]. However, "Zombie Hymns" will not disappoint anyone, since Deceased are better musicians than many of the artists here.
I say, who wouldn't be able to record a 'better' version of "Black Metal" with Venom? The only band member [at the time] who could play, was Mantas anyway. The problem here is that ALL the covered songs do sound like the Newcastle lads. The Iron Maiden classic "2 Minutes To Midnight" has been absolutely butchered and King Fowley is no Bruce Dickinson for sure. "SATO" (Ozzy Osbourne) and "Fire In The Shy" (Saxon) are no highlights either. It works the best with: Witching Metal (Sodom), Stay Clean (Motörhead), Die By The Sword (Slayer), Tormentor (Kreator) Metal Church (Metal Church), Nuns Have No Fun (Mercyful Fate) and the punk-ish "Wrathchild" (Iron Maiden). It's 20 tracks with brutal, raw, classic metal from the 80's and it's all for shit and giggles.
www.crook-drecords.com
Magna Carta 2001
Review by
16 December 2001
Ho Ho Ho! This lil' album will put fans of classic and progressive rock to a festive mood! Prog Rock guru Robert Berry came up with the concept of re-doing a dozen or so christmas tunes in the styles of famous rock groups, and "Sounds Like Christmas" is the result. He is joined by several quest vocalists, namely Steve Walsh, John Wetton, Trent Gardner, Mike Baker, Lisa Bouchette and Jake Livgren.
A peculiar concept for sure, and one that is bound to appeal to those who grew up in the seventies listening to the bands whose styles have been adopted for these songs. We've got songs in the styles of Led Zeppelin, Queen, ELP, Kansas, Sting...sounds weird, but surprisingly quite good too! I'm not a big fan of 70'ies progressive rock like Pink Floyd or King Crimson, but in small portions and mixed with familiar melodies their sounds are OK. In addition, Kansas have written a x-mas song called "The Light" which included on the album as a bonustrack. A good song, and it fits in seamlessly with the "classics".
What we now need is a Melodic Rock answer to this concept...wouldn't it be interesting to hear christmas songs performed in the style of Survivor, Bon Jovi or Journey? Or better yet, performed BY Survivor, Bon Jovi or Journey?
Patrick DECOSTE: "Patrick DeCoste"
Indie 2003
Patrick DeCoste sent us a 6 track demo of his soon to be released debut album and I must say I'm really looking forward to hearing a full-length album from this guy. This is instrumental guitar music at its best with technically brilliant performance and mature songwriting. Though the CD contains 6 tracks only, they showcase a wide range of different approaches from mid- or uptempo classic rock guitar playing (Love in Misery, Breaking the Silence), through acoustic ballads (Premonition), modern over- effected rock (The New Millenium), to moody, almost bluesy approach with a light touch of jazz here and there (Greasy Fingers).
The info material does not list any contributing musicians and I'm sure Patrick recorded the drums using a drum machine or a sequencer software. Yet the drum sound is quite alive, and the loops are rather "human" [it shouldn't be a problem for any drummer to play them live]. I'm not so sure about the bass lines though, sometimes I can't decide if Patrick (or anybody else) played them or they were simply programmed because of a slightly "plastic" bass sound here and there with a huge dose of chorus on them [just to make it even harder for me to tell]. Whatever the case is the overall sound of the album is really good and in all of the tracks there is a different guitar sound that makes the album very vivid and really enjoyable. "Love in Misery" opens with style, it's a mid-tempo rock stomper with a cool groove and catchy, melodic lead. The sound is a little too edgy to these ears [makes me wonder if the lead track was heavily post-effected with some direct-x plug-in in a sequencer - sounds very transistor-overdriven or is that some ring modulation or just a heavy high EQ boost? - I can't tell - anyway if Patrick recorded the effected sound one has to wonder if there is a single led still working on his gear :)] "Premonition" leaves nothing to wonder about, it's a slow yet colorful acoustic ballad. As far as my ears can tell it was recorded on an electro-acoustic guitar. I'm looking forward to hear if the real album will feature a "real" acoustic version. It is one of the highlights of the album for me. "The New Millenium" follows with a modern guitar sounds, lots of delays and reverbs here but the playing and the sound of the drum machine recalls the classic debut album by Dave Sharman. According to Patrick's bio, the San Diego Gulls (ECHL pro hockey team) used "Breaking The Silence" for their home matches, it is definitely a heavy rocker to stomp your feet to.
An acoustic version of the National Anthem finishes the album [I'd rather call it a song inspired by the anthem, as it stands on its own quite well with some of them most important melodies of the anthem included]. There is a bonus track finishing the CD, it makes me wonder why Patrick called it so as this is probably the best track of the whole CD. "Greasy Fingers" is the best-written track here with a vivid arrangement featuring a well-done horn section, some cool jazzy parts (great guitar sound here!) and a pumping groove. This is the way to go! If the full-length album can live up to the quality of the demo, we'll really have something to look forward in 2004.
Mercury 1999
Review by Kimmo Toivonen
The latest Del Leppard album has been hailed as "return to the old sound" for the band, and that's what it mostly is. Gone are the experimental sounds of "Slang" (well. mostly), replaced by a sound that's like a combination of "Hysteria" and "Pyromania".
Opener "Demolition Man" isn't the best reference of this, even though it features the trademark backing vocals. The song itself reminds me of The Wildhearts, and it features F-1 driver Damon Hill on guitar! The first single "Promises" is indeed a return to the old sound, a "Photograph-meets-Animal" kind of a song. "Back In Your Face" is a bit different again, soundwise slightly "Slangish", but basically a big dumb throwaway rocker like the ones on "Adrenalize". "Goodbye" is the first of ballads, standard DL slowie, not one of their best but good enough.
"All Night" is the latest single, and it's groovy little number that doesn't appeal to me. It is one of the three songs co-written by Mutt Lange, and INMO the weakest of them. "Paper Sun" is a moody epic number that reminds me of "Gods Of War", while "It's Only Love" is another Lange-penned song, a balladic pop song that could have just as well found its' way to a Bryan Adams album. "21st Century Sha La La La Girl" is similar to "All Night", but with a better chorus, while "To Be Alive" is one of the highlights for me, a good ballad written by Vivian Campbell.
The instrumental "Disintegrate" isn't one of my favourites, but "Guilty" is, a very "Hysteria/Animal"-like excellent midtempo track. "Day After Day" is a good moody track, reminding me of the "Pyromania" album. It might have been a better closer than the mediocre "Kings Of Oblivion", which doesn't leave a lasting impression.
While I am quite happy with the fact that Def Leppard didn't continue their experimental style any further and turn into Marilyn Manson or something, I must say that this album isn't the masterpiece I was led to believe. Sure, the songs are quite good, but the fact that they remind me of their past glories so strongly is a bit worrying. If they were a bit too experimental with "Slang", with this album they're almost too "retro". With their next album I think the band must find a way to keep things in balance, in order to create The Next Great Def Leppard Album.
Polygram 2002
I`m sure that thousands of people are waiting impatiently for this album as Def Leppard are probably most well-known British hardrock band. They`ve been playing for such long time that only the oldest from us remember their beginnings. What's really rare these days is the fact that they`re still playing in the same formation without huge changes. Maybe this is connected with the fact that they experienced the hard way by being surrounded with unfavourable fate. The most important thing is that they`re back with new material, which we`ll be listening to til...their eleventh release!?
"Euphoria" made me so hungry for their songs, so I expected something really special when I put this disc into the player for a first time. I still remember my huge disappointment, when I`ve heard "Slang" for a first time after the amazing "Adrenalize", every part of which I`ll remember forever. I consider "Slang" as probably the weakest of Leps' albums. There was too much experimenting on this album, it was too far from sound we had already gotten used to getting from Def Leppard. But now, let's talk about "X"...
"Now" kicks off this album and it will also be the first single to promote "X". I can honestly say that I didn`t expect such a good song in the beginning. I thought, that maybe the band has grown up a bit and music on the new album would be more serious. Fortunately, I wasn't disappointed. This song has everything that should characterize modern hardrock. Of course the song contains great melodies, acoustic guitars interlaced with hard riffs but whole thing is incredibly "up-to-date". Production is top quality and the band sounds like they`ve just finished recording "Hysteria". And what are Def Leppard famous for? Obviously playing ballads. "Unbelievable" sounds like it could've just as well come out in 1990, but it also contains this special freshness mentioned before. It`s just another great track. Are you waiting for some mid–tempo songs? Check "You`re So Beautiful" - brilliant composition with amazing voice of Joe Elliot in "old Def Leppardish" style. Do You wanna feel atmosphere of "Hysteria"? "Everyday" is the answer - I won`t say anything more about it, except the fact that you will be listening to this fabulous song over and over again. And now Ladies and Gentlemen - Fanfare. If you've been reading my reviews, You`ve noticed for sure, that quite often I`m raving about the ballads, which are creating fabulous athmosphere and they`re taking the listener into a different world. "Long, Long Way To Go" is one of those - it is also one of the most beautiful ballads Def Leppard ever recorded. You can buy this Cd just for this one song. True Masterpiece!
Further we`ve got "Four Letter Word" - will they stop to showcasing us hit after another? This is the most dynamic track on "X" with very funny lyrics - it reminds me of the smash hit "Make Love Like And Man" from "Adrenalize". Excellent song. "Torn To Shreds" has got something what I`ve waited for all the way - classic "leppardish" backing vocals in the chorus! You know what I mean? A sound similar to some of the tracks off "Pyromania" or "Hysteria". Anyway this is excellent song which will please their fans. I`ve just mentioned background vocal-filled choruses and you can experience them again in "Love Don`t Lie". They are very characteristic for the sound of "Sheffield Five", still they sound so cool every time. This song also has a beautiful refrain with a lyrical theme that will haunt you for weeks.
In my opinion "Gravity" is a small experiment. It has a similar beat to some of the songs songs from "Euphoria", but hard riff in refrain together with funny rapping by Joe Elliot creates a splendid effect. Needless to say that this is one of my favourite parts.
After nine smash hits it`s time for some weaker moments. In "Cry" guys exaggerated with the power of guitars, which combined with a very strange idea for a song gives a very weak result. Well, even the best of 'em do mistakes sometimes. "Girl Like You" is another "slangsounding" song. I don`t wanna say that it`s bad, but after the first nine, it can`t satisfy me. Next mediocre ballad is called "Let Me Be The One". This classic sound we`ve heard thousand times from The Leps so they didn`t surprise this time either.
Compared to the last three songs "Scar" fares pretty well. It sounds like it could've been written during "Adrenalize"-era and it is started with the characteristic "hoarse voice" of Joe Elliot. In the end we can find "Kiss The Day" which is for sure the song with thedarkest and heaviest atmosphere on the whole release, but with a very catchy refrain.
Without a doubt this is a very successful return into world of hardrock music for The Leps. Many interesting compositions, modern and top production (this time they`ve put this work on shoulders of four producers: Pete Woodroffe, well-known from their previous recordings, teamed up with Marti Frederiksen, Andreas Carlsson and Per Aldeheim). Obviously the largest applause belongs to The Band of course – They showed us that they didn`t grew old and that they`re still in the lead of the hardrock business. I`m hoping that I`ll be able to catch The Leps live during the European part of their tour. It`s for sure the event You can`t miss!
Nightmare Records 2003
Review by
4 Mars 2003
Defyance from Knoxville, Iowa, started out playing technical music back in the late 80's. A few members came and went during the years, but the core consisting of Brent Scott (guitar), Marcus Peterson (guitar) and Doug Beary (drums), is still with the band.
"Transitional Forms" is already their fourth album release, but the first to feature ex-Balance Of Power vocalist, Lance King. The band met King through his company Nightmare Records, which distributes Defyance's earlier releases. Also teaming up with the band here is longtime friend Aaron Bell (ex-Degree Absolute), on bass guitar.
The result is pretty remarkable and very melodic, prog-metal, with lots of great melodies and hooks. King does one of his best ever performances here, the vocals are really powerful and upfront. Fans of Dream Theater (Images And Words), Angra, and King's old band, will probably like this CD too. Maybe the production could have been better as the vocals sometimes 'drift away', from the rest of the music. And you will be able to find a couple of fillers here. Otherwise, I don't have any major complaints! Some of the tracks could have been blessed with a catchier hook, from time to time. But "Connection", "Silent Tears", "A Notion" "Tied To A Wheel", and the great ballad "Never Fade Away", really is Prog-Metal at its best. Peterson & Scott are all over the place with great guitarwork. Bell & Beary is a tight rhythm section and King is King! A good, yet not perfect, Prog-Metal album, would have to be the final verdict here.
www.nightmare-records.com
Indie 2003
Review by
26 September 2003
The names of Brad Delp & Barry Goudreau is simply oozing with legendery albums and classic tunes. The two of them spent most of the glory days with Boston in the 70's and part of the 80's. Indeed, Delp sang all of their major and minor hits and guitarist Goudreau recorded albums under both the "Orion The Hunter" & "RTZ" banner later on, with quite some success too.
Since Tom Scholz recorded the weirdest Boston album yet last year, with female vocals and average material. This dynamic duo decided to team up and strike back with an album of their own. The result is however not exactly what I expected (it never is, is it?), and it's surely not a "Boston" rock album.
Then again, I guess it would be kind of lame to expect everything to sound like their previous act. "Delp & Goudreau" is far more laid-back then anything they've ever done in the past. Lots of acoustic guitars and the echos of various late 60's/early 70's bands is the issue here. Is rather done in the music style of Eagles, America, Travelling Wilburys, Bryan Ferry, than the Boston version of rock. I guess they have matured or something and wanting to search for their roots or whatever. One things for sure... do not expect this to sound like you-know-who, or you may end up very disappointed. The CD is filled with smooth acoustic meets electric guitars and indeed some great songs too. I'm especially fond of "Hands Of Time" and the moody ballads, "Everyday", "My One True Love", and "I Need You Love". The latter is very close to the sound of Roy Orbison with a touch of the Beatles. There's absolutely nothing wrong with the production and the whole CD is fine piece of craftmanship. The overall material could have been stronger/catchier though and I guess it could rock harder too. The conclusion of it all would however have to be that "Delp & Goudreau" is more suitable for your laid-back and sleepy days than anything else. Think late 60's/early 70's stuff with a slightly more updated approach of course. You can get hold of this disc at their homesite (link below) and at CDBaby.com ...I believe.
www.barrygoudreau.com
Record Heaven 2001
01-08-19
The Demon is back! I recently received the first single from the forthcoming CD "Spaced out monkey" and it´s actually the album title track we can find here. I say, this single comes in a very flashy digi-pack with three other songs taken from their previous albums. "Night of the demon" from the album with the same name, "Sign of a madman" from the Unexpected Guest and "Blackheath" from The Plague.
Record Heaven will release remastered versions of all the above mentioned albums later this year. I must admit that I find the new song to be the weakest track of the four here but it´s still pretty darn good with a fresh sound. The enchanting vocals and the rap/singing verse are indeed a new approach for Demon. Then again, all the other songs on this 4-track CD are old favorites of mine and it´s maybe not fair to compare the 80´s sound with this, now, in 2001. Let´s just say that I´m looking forward to hear the album.
www.rhcd.net
Record Heaven 2001
01-09-05
Comeback album of the year? Well... there are many bands from the 80´s who have recently released "comeback" albums, not many of them has been this impressive though. Formed during the NWOBHM days in England [1980] but never really a big part of the scene as they were pretty much alone, with their unlikely combination of black metal lyrics [?] and melodic music.
Long gone are the black metal influences though and sadly [?] so are the wicked [raw meat?] costumes Dave Hill used to wear. Still... beware of the Demon as they simply let their music do the talking here. It´s been nine long years since the last album and almost fifteen [Breakout - 1987] years since the last time their fans and listeners had this much fun.
"Spaced out monkey" are both progressive and retro at the same time and you´ll find something new to take notice of, each time you play the disc. The keyboards are a big part of the overall sound, and vocalist Dave Hill sound almost better than ever here. The highlights would be "Never saw it coming" the already classic "Sounds of the underground" with some really spooky and atmospheric keys and a catchy chorus. "Dreamtime" could have been a SAGA tune in the mid-80´s and nobody would have complained "Where are you coming from" shows some Pink Floyd influences and closing track "Let me out of here" is simply breathtaking with some absolutely lovely keys and a superb chorus. This is Demon at it´s best and they are back for sure!!! Recommended!!! even if you can find two or three average songs on this CD. Record Heaven www.the-demon.com
Escape Music 2003
Review by 20 Mars 2003
Back to the roots, back to the groove, and most of all... back to what once worked in the past. This may not be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth though. Germany's Demon Drive do add their own, modern, music style over it all. This is actually a pretty darn fine mixture of classic, melodic, and modern day rock.
I believed they experimented a tad too much with their previous album (Rock'N'Roll Star). To be frank, many of the tracks lacked both in hooks and melodies back then. Something that has improved a lot with their brand new effort... "Four Play".
Demon Drive with ex-Casanova vocalist Michael Voss as the frontman,
do not look back to old days all of the time. Nah, instead they are
pushing the borders of melodic hardrock in front of them, towards new
places and destinations. You could say they are out there, together
with bands such as Westworld, playing rock that's without a doubt firmly
rooted into the 80's, but with a modern touch. Many songs such as "Misdemeanor",
"Here Comes That Feeling Again" (which Casanova recorded earlier ),
"She Goes", "Waterfall", and "Because Of You", are all blessed with
a 'go with the flow' attitude. Meaning they are all easy listening,
radio friendly, catchy tunes, with a very slick production. I'm especially
fond of "Dance Into The Music" and "Remember Where You Heard It First"
though. It doesn't get much better than this... when it comes to smooth,
melodic hardrock that is. Especially the latter is so darn good, that
you simply can't get it out of your head. The chorus sticks like glue
and it's suger sweet Rock/AOR/Pop, or whatever you like to call it.
It's maybe the track with the most 'modern' sound of them all actually.
A couple of fillers and a so-so version of Cliff Richard's "Devil Woman",
is not enough to put me down. Voss sings with that typical German accent,
but you can't help to think it's actually pretty cool this time. If
you enjoyed DD in the past, but thought that "Rock'n'Roll Star" was
a major disappointment, you will surely be pleased to find out that
DD are "almost" completely back on right track again.
www.escape-music.com
Perris Records 2001
13 June 2001
Band effort from the former Iron Maiden singer. Even though I liked the "Killers" album with Di'Anno singing, this is one record that I just can't listen to. This is boring and there is not much I really want to say about this. Di'Anno is not for me even though the intro promises a bit but there it ends.
I guess there must be a small market for this kind of heavy music otherwise this would not have been recorded. Anthrax kicks ass, this one just bites. Di'Anno might sell some records just because of his history but that's it.
I'm sorry I just don't like this. Not even the Halford wanna-be screams do any good.
Indie 2004
Review by Jorge Antonaya, 
9 June 2004
One of the (many) pleasant surprises I got while in Norway on late March was to know the guys and girl of Diabla. Who the hell are they? Well, Diabla’s roots sink as back as 1996 but you can read the (almost) full story at their website. This is already their second demo CD, the first one, “Everything Passes”, being released in 2001. The line up has gone through multiple changes but the basis trio of Beathe Sanden (vocals), Morten Granheim (bass) and Tarald Lie (drums) remains. Stig Rolfsen (guitars) left after the band’s show opening for TNT (one of their musical heroes) in Kroa i Bø (Norway) on March 20 2004. They named their music as Experimental Romantic Metal Pop Punk, and as “flashy” as it may sound, it’s not, in fact, very far from the truth.
This 2 track single CD opens with Small Talk, an up-tempo hard rock tune with a punk attitude, funny, yet fighting lyrics, and all you can ask for in a rock song. I’m The Snake is a slower track, not very far from 80’s hard rock. Beathe’s voice definitely falls out of the ordinary, as her voice is somehow hypnotic and haunting at times. There’s also space for some bitter, gloomy lyrics on that one. Keep in mind that even though being influenced a lot by 80’s hard rock, Diabla are a present day rock band with lots of punk attitude, not talking about Bad Religion/Green Day wannabees, but closer to maybe Skid Row or even Motley Crüe crunchier side. Read, no technical virtuosos here, neither musical complexity in a proggie style, it’s just in your face rebel rock with a forever young attitude what we’re talking here.
So, if you’re in for no prejudices, no musical boundaries, rebel lyrics and fresh music old-clichés free, then you should check Diabla out. I’m pretty sure they’ll catch any A&R’s eye soon as they caught mine. The band is not in a hurry, as they are focused now in playing a lot now and make themselves a name. Nonetheless, word is that with this single they are getting a lot of airplay in a certain Spanish radio show… Stay tuned! ;-) And lucky you if you can catch them live supporting Stage Dolls at Rockefeller in Oslo on June 12. I wish I was there!
www.diabla.no
Insideout 2000
Behold people... I have seen the future of PROGRESSIVE Metal! DIGITAL RUIN have released their second album (first on Insideout) and this CD will really be their big break (I hope). The lineup of Matt Pacheco (vocals), Dave Souza (guitar), Mike Keegan (bass) & Tim Hart (drums) have really given DREAM THEATER a fight for the 'Prog-Metal Heavy Weight Champion Belt'.
They have done a great High-Tech album with a style of their own, a little bit darker than many of the Prog bands, but we can of course also hear influences from bands such as Dream Theater, Fates Warning & early Queensryche. In fact DIGITAL RUIN opened for Dream Theater at the final leg of their 'Awake' tour.
Vocalist Pacheco has got a great high pitched voice and the rhythm section is really tight and well played. The album that deals with personal aspects of life and the darker side of the human spirit, starts with "Living for yesterday" a great song with some crunching guitars, a really melodic and catchy chorus and some outstanding vocals a-la Dream Theater. Next track "Darkest day" really knocks me to the floor, this is Progressive Metal at it's best! You can almost say that this is their answer to the Dream Theater classic "Pull me under". They may not use as much keyboards as D-T, but they are there in the background and we can also hear some really cool church bells in this song. "The forgotten" is a superb mid-tempo song again with some great guitar work from "Souza". Best song on this CD must be the super cool "Adrift" with a really cool'n'catchy chorus and some superb keyboards a-la YES & Dream Theater. This CD is pretty much a must have if you´re a fan of Progressive Metal! You can find out more about DIGITAL RUIN at their home site www.digitalruin.com and their record label www.insideout.de Buy or Die :-)
Eagle Rock/Pias 2003
Review by
18 august 2003
After seeing, hearing and even talking to Ronnie James Dio at Bospop this year, I now have the pleasure to review the man’s first dvd. Ronnie James Dio has been in the rock business for almost thirty years now. He has made great albums with Rainbow (“Rising”(1976) or “Long Live Rock And Roll”(1977)), Black Sabbath (“Heaven And Hell”(1980) or “The Mob Rules”(1981)) and of course with Dio (“Holy Diver”(1983) or “Magica”(2000)).
Now you can enjoy Dio’s performance over and over again with this excellent dvd, which was recorded in New York in 2002. The band, consisting of Jimmy Bain, Simon Wright, Doug Aldrich and Scott Warren is great; the soundquality is almost perfect and Ronnie still sings like a young metal god. If I hear his incredible voice I can never believe that he is in his fifties already.
The set list has some old Black Sabbath material – “Children Of The Sea” and “Heaven And Hell” - , some old Rainbow material – “Man On the Silver Mountain” and “Long Live Rock ‘N Roll” - , a few Dio classics like: “Stand Up And Shout”, “Don’t Talk To Strangers”, “Holy Diver” and “The Last In Line”, and a couple of “new” Dio tracks such as “Killing The Dragon”, “Push”, “Lord Of The Last Day” and “Fever Dreams”. Disappointing are the “redundant” drum and guitar solo and the fact that the killer song “Stargazer” is not on the set list.
The bonus material consists of an interview with Ronnie, a photo gallery, behind the scenes footage and the promo video for “Push”.
Conclusion: a great rock/metal dvd from a brilliant “shouter”.
www.ronniejamesdio.com
AFM/Rock Inc 2004
Review by
9 December 2003
Dionysus, named after the Greek god of wine, was founded in Sweden in 1999 and consists of singer Olaf Hayer(vocalist on Luca Turilli’s solo albums), drummer Ronny Milianowicz(ex-Sinergy), guitar player Johnny Ohlin, bass guitar player Nobby Noberg and keyboarder Kaspar Dahlquist(ex-Malmsteen). Their debut album, mixed by Tommy Newton. was called “Sign Of Truth”, and this new cd is mixed by Jens Bugrin.
This album is filled with melodic power metal songs in the best tradition of bands like Manowar, Rhapsody, Helloween or Gamma Ray and it is a must for lovers of those bands. The vocals are great, the guitar playing is fast, but melodic, and some of the songs will turn out to become real singalong metal hymns. Just listen to the wonderful “March For Freedom” and you will be hooked and never forget this song anymore; Manowar eat your heart out!!
“Divine” and “Closer To The Sun” are Helloween sound-a-like power metal tracks; fast, high-pitched vocals, not original, but still power metal at its best. Of course there is also the obligatory power ballad called “Forever More”, which you have probably heard already a thousand times before on other power metal albums, but I still like it. Dionysus have the strength to keep you wanting for more, so I hope that this is not just another side project, but a real band to stay. Then we will hear from these guys, without any doubt. Check them out on the road, because they will be on tour with Doro, Saxon and Circle 2 Circle.
Release date: 19 January 2004
www.afm-records.de
Indie 2000
DIVINE STATIC is a duo from Maryland/USA that consists of Eric Scott (vocals/bass) and Ronnie Smith (keys/guitar). They are playing a mixture of AOR/ROCK & POP with influences from artists like Bryan Adams & Seal but I can also hear some Michael Morales, Hootie & The Blowfish & Journey in their music. Too bad that this isn't a "pure" AOR album, though we can find some unbelievable good AOR songs on this CD, but also some not-so-good 90's POP tracks. Let´s talk about the good stuff first, shall we??
The CD starts with a instrumental bagpipes intro (Before the dawn) to the song "More than a little" this is a nice midtempo POP/AOR song (still with bagpipes) but nothing special. "Questions unanswered" is a great POP/AOR semi ballad that sounds like a mix of 'Hootie & The Blowfish' & 'FM' it´s still not 'pure' AOR but I can´t really complain, cuz it´s really catchy. "Walking next to you" is again a great song that sounds both like AOR & POP.
The best song of the whole CD is the superb Piano-ballad "Shield my eyes" this is AOR at it best - goose bump warning for sure! It's really sentimental and has got a catchy chorus. "It's all I can take" is a more funky midtempo song with verses that sounds like DAN REED NETWORK (great) while the chorus sounds more like POP. "If I fell in love" is another great AOR song and last track "Give me air" is a soft semi ballad with a good chorus. But the rest are maybe too far from "real" AOR, so this is maybe not a CD for all the "faithful" out there but if you like a mixture of AOR and 90's POP do check them out iuma.com email ItzllGoode@aol.com
MTM Music 2001
If you are expecting the same monster AOR-tastic tunes as Dixon's debut solo album "One" then I'm afraid, dear reader, that you could be disappointed unless you approach this album with an open mind, after all the debut was released eight years ago, so think of this newie as a natural progression from "One".
The new record from the former Coney Hatch frontman is a more earthy pop record showing elements of Glen Burntick, Sting and Free especially on the hook ridden 'Busted' (co written with Coney Hatch band mate Andy Curran) and 'Point Of No Return', as well as showing modern influences as heard on 'Rattled' for example, this is quite a catchy track and the chorus is very in tune with The Beatles and Bryan Adams' last indie sounding record.
'Into The Future' 'Hot Streak', 'River', 'Strange Way To Live' and 'Back To Where We Started From', are in direct tune with the "One" album, but then the albums mood changes with the aforementioned 'Rattled' and becomes an album about good quality pop/rock songs with modern influences which continues on 'Little Bit Of Love', the funky 'Shadows' and 'Koln' which is a seventies sounding keyboard instrumental. Dixon doesn't forget our token ballad either which is 'Lonely You'. Overall an enjoyable album with different layers of quality music that you'll either love or hate, I for one totally enjoyed "Into The Future".
www.mtm-music.com
Halycon/Record Heaven 2001
01-11-28
Howdy! Remember the good old days? When a cowboy could still roam the dusty plains in the wild west. When all you needed was your rifle, a horse, some pork and a can of beans. Yep! The year was 1891 (or was it 1981?) and the Southern Rock band "Doc Holliday" released their self titled debut album.
Many moons (and beans) later they are back in the saddle again. Well, they were actually never really 'gone'. The group´s seventh CD "Legacy" was released back in 1996. And they´ve also been playing summer festivals and a couple of tours, every now & then. I guess you could call this a "small" comeback though. Bandleader 'Bruce Brookeshire' is actually a Born Again rocker in these days! The music is still traditional southern boogie a-la Molly Hatchet, Blackfoot or Lynyrd Skynyrd though.
"A Better Road" contains five brand new, never before released songs (Three of them from the 1981-82 period). You will also be able to find remastered and reworked versions of five Doc Holliday classics. One of them are the original recording of "Lonesome Guitar" from 1981. Here recorded with a different ending, including some really cool guitar work. Many believe this to be "Doc´s" answer to Lynyrd Skynyrd´s "Freebird" and I am prepared to agree. Very nice stuff indeed! Other highlights are the Thin Lizzy cover "Jailbreak" also included on the tribute album "The Spirit Of The Black Rose" on Record Heaven. "Crazy" was recorded in 1980 but never made it to an LP. "A Better Road" is a nice acoustic southern/country tune on which Brookeshire reflects about his past and new life. "Dead Man´s Road" happens to be my favorite Doc tune (together with Lonesome Guitar). And this electric version of the song from the Legacy CD, simply kicks a##. Nevermind that "Can´t Stop Rockin" does sound a lot like ZZ Top. Even the chorus, with the phrase "Can´t stop rockin´ baby til´ I lose my mind" is ZZ Top all over again.
Record Heaven
www.dochollidayband.com
MTM Music 2003
Review by
20 July 2003
Back in the saddle again and back with yet another new label behind them. The Southern Rockers of Doc Holliday has apperentely struck a deal with MTM Music here in Europe and first up is this 14 track compilation. There is quite a few of these comps out there already and I believe Record Heaven here in Sweden, released something a couple of years back.
"Gunfighter - Best Of The 90's" contains of six tracks from the 1993 album "Son Of The Morning Star", another six from their latest 1996 release "Legacy" and two never before released bonus tracks. Add to this that "Rebel Girl", "Workin' Man", and "Son Of The Morning Star" (all 3 from the "Son Of..." CD), are here featured in remixed versions a'la 2003.
Doc' is still out there doing tours and will play at festivals here in Europe this summer. It's been a while since I've actually heard any new material though. Bruce Brookeshire is still the leader of the gang, even if he mostly seems to attend church meetings and such nowadays. I believe he became a born again person in the 90's? He's also been doing some solo stuff and christian material lately. The new tracks featured here are very melodic and AOR-sounding for this Southern Rock band. Especially "Never Another Night" which reminded me a lot of 38 Special (the band, not the gun) in the early/mid 80's. Not bad at all really while "Love That Burns" is a slow blues with some really tasty guitarwork. The rest of the material is a nice introduction to this Macon/Georgia, USA band. The very same town which brought us The Allman Brothers by the way and their spirit is all over Doc's material. Molly Hatchet fans will probably enjoy this a lot too.
www.mtm-music.com
MTM Music 2003
Review by
19 November 2003
Southern rockers Doc Holliday with Bruce Brookeshire (vocals/guitars) upfront is finally back with a completely new studio CD. I believe it's their first new effort since the 1996 album "Legacy" and over all seventh album, since the selftitled debut in 1981.
There's been a bunch of various compilations over the years though and I almost expected this to be yet another one. Instead you'll get ten, new, straight shooters from the hip, with traditional boogie-woogie and hold the marilyn manson influences please.
You won't find anything new or groundbreaking with "Good Time Music". Thirthy years of musical "progress" and its environment, hasn't inspired these cowboys a single bit. They're still playing their stuff where Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers are forever heroes and housegods. You surely can't blame them for jumping on the bandwagon as this could easily have been recorded back in 1975, and no-one would have known the difference in the first place. Opener "Black Cat" is vintage Doc Holliday with a touch of classic ZZ Top in the 70's. "Highway Call" is too slow and too boring, blues for my taste and there's unfortunately too many of them this time. The exception to the rule is the marvelous "Farmer's Tan", where all the genius work of Doc in the past, has been mixtured with some charming Bruce Springsteen rock (from the 70's). "Magnolia" is a nice lazy, laid-back, tune and "Simple Man" is simple and solid blues rock. Not their best album I'm afraid... but die-hard fans will probably enjoy listening to some new material again. I only wish they could write more stuff like the uptempo ones (Farmer's Tan, Black Cat).
www.mtm-music.com
MTM Music 2002
26 June 2002
Dog Face? Well, G.I. Joe better hold on to his dog-tags as this album belongs in the doghouse. OK, enough with the monkey business and let's not horse around anymore... like a cat on a hot... nah, I better just stop it right here, right now! OK?
The second release by the Swedish hardrock band is unfortunately a major dissapointment to me. You may already know the legendary lead vocalist Mats Leven (ex. Swedish Erotica, Treat, Yngwie Malmsteen etc.) and I must admit he's doing a excellent work as always here.
However, the song material is overall pretty lousy this time around and without any major hooks. Well, the songs aren't that lousy actually! It's more a case of 'I-don't-even-care-attitude' and that's worse than being really bad. Credit where credit's due tho', Leven is the glue that sticks these songs together. Without him I wouldn't even have noticed many of the tracks. Opener "Not Wanted" is a nice rock tune with a chorus that works nicely. Anders Skoog does a good performance with his Hammond and the sound is very 70-ish. "Alone Again" could have been included on the Treat album with Leven and "Sleeping With The Enemy" is a nice uptempo track. The whole album is very much in the tradition of 70's rock of Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, Thin Lizzy etc. Not quite as good tho' even if die hard fans of Leven or 70's rock, may enjoy some of the tracks. This is more of a album/band effort than anything else. The frontcover looks like something I could have done myself, some ten years ago on a crappy Amiga. Believe me, I'm not that much into computers either and that's an understatement.
www.mtm-music.com
Indie 2001
01-11-28
Who let the dogs out? Uh-Oh! Stay back people... as I believe this to be a hungry bunch of pup´s. Indeed, DOGPOUND is a new and interesting band from my homeland Sweden. Their first "Official Demo" is a nice compilation of seven songs in the heavier style of melodic hardrock. Whatever that means?
Well... there are no keyboards to be found on this demo CD. And instead you´ll get some groovy guitar work and a smashing rhythm section. Pretty much in the style of fellow Swede´s Talisman, mixed with some of the heaviness of Skintrade. With other words: a whole lotta guitar riffs can be found here! A heavier verse is almost always followed up by a melodic sing-a-long chorus.
The production then? Sure, it could have been better! Then again, for a demo is this actually pretty good. "When The World Comes Down" is the real winner here! A really marvelous song, with some groovy guitar work a-la Talisman. Add that the chorus sticks like glue [No! You´re not rubber :) ] at once. "Welcome To the Mystery" is another winner in my book. Retro, yet modern melodic hardrock in one. Marvelous chorus again! "Made It Through" and "Bleed" are two uptempo tracks in the higher school of hardrock. While "Worries Of Yesterday" is a darn nice ballad. Mark my words! Here´s another band soon to be signed, by some of the hardrock labels out there. Maybe something for Z-Records? Just add a couple of more tracks in the style of "When The World Comes Down" or "Welcome To The Mystery" and you´ll be there. For now, make sure to check ´em out at: http://dogpound.da.ru/ Respect!
LionMusic 2003
Review by
30 October 2003
They've been spending their days locked up in the "Dogpound" for way too long by now. Mainly due to problems with different record labels as things started to go wrong already back in 2001. I remember reviewing their smashing 7-track demo back then (still in our archives I believe), and a certain label picked them up soonly afterwards.
Disappointed in the music industry and fed up with dishonest people, Swedens Dogpound pretty much decided to call it a day. Guitarist 'Micke' joined full time touring band "Candela" (swedish schlager music - dansband) and the rest of the members shattered quietly into the night. Nevertheless, now they're back with a vengeance and the smashing album "The Hellbum" at LionMusic.
I'm sure that some of you are familiar with the song "When The World Comes Down" as it was featured on a label sampler earlier. This is one marvelous uptempo rocker in the Swedish tradition of Talisman and Freak Kitchen. Micke is one helluva string bender and what a waste of talent to have him spending his days with Candela. The groovy rhythm section with Figge (bass) and Tuka (drums) are pretty much rock solid too. And like I wrote in my demo review earlier "a heavier verse is always followed up by a melodic sing-a-long chorus". I miss however a couple of tracks from the demo days, even if they've replaced them with better or similar material. For example the excellent ballads "You Remain" and "Way Up High", where the latter is one of the highlights this year. "...For My Sins" is a nice 'throwaway' rocker a'la Takara and opener "End Of Our Days" is another winner. "The Hellbum" is most of all guitar rock with lots of wicked riffs and an overall loud attitude. A safe pick up if you're into above mentioned bands and a lot more chorus/melody oriented than later days Talisman.
www.lionmusic.com
DOKKEN: "Live From The Sun" 9
Sony 2000Review by Vesa Nuorala
Again a live CD for me to review. It seems like lately the quality
of live CD's has been getting better. Here I am, listening to this CD
in my office while doing the review, and believe me, this rocks big time.
Dokken - again one of those bands that I like to listen to. I have
even seen them play in Helsinki as a opening act for AC/DC. Not the
best environment to play, but I bought their shirt, that's how impressed
I was.
The thing here that makes this CD interesting is to hear Reb Beach
play the older Dokken tunes. He comes through with flying colors, who
needs George Lynch anymore. The songs are from the start of their career
(Breaking the Chains) to the latest release "Erase The Slate". This
is in my opinion way better live CD than their previous one "Beast From
the East" (1988). Don's voice is in good shape and Reb's guitar playing
is awesome, not forgetting the rhythmsection Pilson and Brown. This
is Dokken for you and nobody misses George Lynch, even though he is
a great guitarplayer.
All the songs sound great and how well the new material fits in makes
Dokken a must-see band if they happen to come this way. A great mixture
of Dokken. I won't go to too much to details but here is at least the
track listing: "Erase The Slate", "Kiss Of Death", "The Hunter", "Into
the Fire", "Maddest Hatter", "Too High To Fly", "Breaking The Chains",
"Alone Again", "It's Not Love", "Tooth And Nail" and "In My Dreams".
Sanctuary 2002
2 May 2002
'Long Way Home' and 'Long Way Back' would be the essential words here. I've been looking forward to this day, ever since I first heard that John Norum (ex. Europe) would be the new guitarist. I really enjoyed the Don Dokken solo album "Up From The Ashes", where Don & John last worked together and silly me thought this would be as good.
Well, I guess I had it coming... this is after all the year of 2002 and nothing stays the same forever. Not that I wanted it to be the same either, [progression man, we need progression] but you would at least expect it to 'rock' right?
Nah, this is very 'laid-back' mushy, mellow 70's rock with a 'modern' touch. I barely recognized the vocals of Don Dokken as he hardly 'sings' anymore. I'm not sure why, but he reminded me of Marlon Brando in The 'Godfather' movie picture. Speak up man... we wanna here ya' sing the 'blues' again, not mumble it. This may be a bit harsh I know, but have a listen and tell me if I'm completely wrong here? Looking back, this may not be such a big surprise after all. Just look at what Dokken/Norum have done for the last decade or so and you know what I mean. Opener "Sunless Days" is the most uptempo track here and sadly it doesn't get much better than this. Sure, some of the mellower tracks like "Everybody Needs" or "There Was A Time" are not that bad really. "Goodbye My Friend" is also a 'nice' piano ballad, but who needs a whole album of this? When I play Dokken I expect it to rock, when I play Barry Manilow [which I don't] I expect it to not. Oh, Times they are a changing...
www.noiserecords.com
Sanctuary 2004
Review by Urban "Wally" Wallstrom,
14 June 2004
The Good news, "Hell To Pay" is twice as good as "Long Way Home" and the lads are finally back for the attack again. The bad news, most CD's are actually better than "Long Way Home" [I noticed that I gave it a '4' rating in our archives]. Seriously though, George Lynch is nowhere to be seen or heard and even Jeff Pilson had enough of all the b.s. quite some time ago. The funny part is that it really doesn't matter that much in the end. Guitarist Jon Levin [ex-Warlock] and the experienced Barry Sparks [MSG, Yngwie Malmsteen, Ted Nugent, etc.], has managed to deliver the goods with a professional approach and attitude.
The biggest surprise is however the song material itself. I kid you not, Don Dokken and Wild Mick Brown have "almost" done a complete 180 as we're talking more vintage stuff than usually [lately] here. "Don't Bring Me Down" reminded me a lot of the "Tooth And Nail" era and style, some of the other tracks are indeed similar to the very early days with "Breaking The Chains" and above mentioned album.
Don't believe for a second that everything is just fine and hunky-dory though. You can still find some melancholy and overall dull melodies here. I miss the fun attitude and guitar pace of the past in certain places. There's no "real" kick-azz uptempo track included [except the already mentioned "Don't Bring Me Down"] as they're mostly stuck in second gear. How I wish they could put down the pedal to the metal and simply just burn some rubber [it's better to crash and burn, then slowly fade away?]. OK, so there's no "Just Got Lucky" or "Heaven Sent" to be found here, but it's still a pretty decent album. Tracks like "Escape", "Haunted", "Better Off Before" [this is vintage stuff if anything], "Still I'm Sad", "I Surrender", are all fine mid-tempo rockers. "Care For You" is an excellent ballad and I think I actually prefer the unplugged bonus version. Opener "The Last Goodbye" has a certain vibe of 'Egypt' all over it and it's yet another fine, mid-tempo track. It's also quite obvious that Jon Levin, has been told to shred like Lynch and not to stray off in any other direction. There are still fillers to be found here, but "Hell To Pay" is easily their best effort since the 80's. Don't be afraid to pick this up... just don't expect it to be outstanding and 'the best album ever'. It's solid... solid indeed!
www.dokken.net