PRETTY VACANT :: Walkin' A On Tilt
With an air of concern 'Pretty Vacant' was dropped into the player, anything with a slight Sex Pistols flavour makes me nervous as we all know the Pistols were unique, and thankfully the only thing similar here is the band name, the music couldn't be further departed, phew! With more harmonies and choruses than you could ever imagine Pretty Vacant pumps out a mix of rock, glam, and aor hailing back to the days of the sleazy Sunset Strip, not breaking any boundaries but I have to say they do it really well, no screaming like a demented banshee, no ten minute CC Deville solo's just anthemic style rock and roll filled with great hooks and catchy choruses, the vocals can be a little hit or miss in parts but most of the tunes are catchy glam anthems à-la Pretty Boy Floyd and if you like your ballads, your hairspray and ball strangling pants then Pretty Vacant have to be worth pop! Another good band brought to us from Suncity Records, worth checking out especially if you want to kick back to 'the good ol' days. Good effort.
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CREAM PIE :: Live Crime
Hailing from Italy I was expecting something different from 'Live Crime' as many of the Italian bands I experience are pretty unique, some in a good way and some...well, you get the idea! The first thing that struck me with Cream Pie apart from the weird name was that the drumming and the production ain't exactly pro, which is a shame as the tracks have a lot promise, but the whole cd sounds like it's been recorded in a restaurant toilet cubicle which does it no favours at all! The sound lacks a good pair of rock ‘n’ roll ballz, but this demo cd ain't bad, especially if you still wear cowboys boots, spandex and bandanas! School boys trying to be rock ‘n’ roll gods with flaming guitars and hair raising vocals: I'm into it even if the vocals are a little stressed and squeaky at times, but I really do think that with decent production and a real set of skins to pound, Cream Pie could have some potential! Come on guys, crank it up and good luck.
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VANITY INK:: On Your Skin
Hell, has someone just released a rabid dog?! I've banged in this new offering form Vanity Ink wound up the dial and been knocked across the room, NEAT!!! Great crisp vocals coupled with a grinding and a tight as Michael Monroes pants rhythm section this CD has potential stamped ALL over it, it's a gem. It's blatantly obvious that at production there has been a lot of thought and time spent and its paid off, great backing and a bang on the money musical arrangement. Vanity Ink are making a proud stand for great sounding rock and roll, i'm not sure as it should be called 'On Your Skin' more like 'Under Your Skin' this has got me welded to it like a magnet from the outset, I can't give it a bad comment its got balls like King Kong and pounds along like a meteorite falling to earth, these rockers are going to leave a hell of a crater, a belter of a CD great. job! Woooohoooo!
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BACKWASH:: Kick Ass!
Mmmm interesting name for a band for starters! So is Backwash going to be kick ass or more of a pain in the ass, let's see. From the outset i'm not gripped at all, the pace seems to drag its heels a little and I find myself waiting for some fire and for things to step up to another level, but sadly the one level is where things seem to stay. I wouldn't say that Backwash are a bad setup just more of a follower than a leader, I do wonder what has happened to originality when listening to bands of this vein, this CD lacks individuality or personality the musical talent is obvious and overall the sound is well balanced but it just doesn't have that edgy kick to make you sit up and listen, this one turns you off as quickly as you turn it on, maybe if you like your straight forward rock you may give it rack space!
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MISS 45:: Cd Ep
It's time to get back to basics, screw the ten minute guitar solo's, and over inflated ego's of coked up lead vocalists, pack away the hairspray and glittering wardrobes throw the hoards of kit and technological trickery back in the van and let's create some unadulterated rock n roll - enter Miss 45. With a style not dissimilar to that of the late great Johnny Thunders and the Dolls, plus a great blend of all of the usual suspects of the time. Miss 45 bring us a modern take on the fine art of rock n roll, sneering vocals and that basic yet bullet proof guitar style that screams NYC, coupled with harmonies and backing that lacks polish and refinement, slightly off key and out of tune it's just one more essential element to add to the sound that will add a swagger to your step and fill you with a sense of mischief. Miss 45 haven't done anything 'new' but hey if it ain't broke then don't fix it! This is great dirty RNR but with that certain glamour and finesse that is born to you: Johnny would've been proud!
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MARYSLIM:: A Perfect Mess
3rd studio release form these Scandi rockers that just unleashed 12 smoking tracks with influences ranging from The Cult to The 69 Eyes. I believe these guys must have liked a lot the latest Backyard Babies and Hellacopters cd's, probably on heavy rotation on their ipod's together with some classix stuff: AC/DC to name some names! "A Perfect Mess" gave me some thrills and made me want to play this cd again..and this is always a good sign! No doubt the band has a good songwriting and most of the tunes have nice melodies, if I had to compare them to alike bands I'd say they're more fresh than Gemini 5 and more catchy than Private Line. Jyrky69 of The 69 Eyes is a good friend of the band and did guest vocals on "Alive" and "This Corrosion". The latter is actually a Sisters Of Mercy cover and is the first single, quite goth sounding (maybe a little too much for yours truly!). Anyway don't let this fool you as the rest of the cd is more in the classic rock & roll style: nothing better than this to start a..."Perfect Mess"!
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SWINGIN' THING:: Keep On Swingin'
Suncity Records revisits the hairspray and harmonies of 80's glam/sleaze rockers Swingin' Thing, and for those of you that missed the ride first time around be sure to check them out this time, if you like your hair big and your pants tight then get Swingin! Swingin' Thing aren't the extremes of glam in the way that Heart Throb Mob and Pretty Boy Floyd were, but these boys had an abundance of talent along with an abundance of fans. The first fistful of tracks on this CD are mainly the earlier glam/sleaze material with the punkier and more recent tracks further down the set list. 'Keep On Swingin' has everything, it's full of good times, big heart breaking ballads and will have you reaching for your back catalogue and eyeliner in an instant, I loved every minute 'Hook, Line & Sink Her'..
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PETER BLAST:: Pure Organic Junk
This guy that has been tearing the music world a new 'A-hole' since the 70's when he fronted the group 'Degeneration' dubbed as the American Sex Pistols. The CD is comprised of material from Peter's previous projects coupled with some new and unreleased tracks acting as the cherry on the rock n roll cake! The tracks on 'Pure Organic Junk' are varied and each have their own particular qualities and throughout you'll fail to shake those clever hooks and back to basics raunchy guitar work. You'll find an array of tracks with an obvious blues influence, some a little more tongue in cheek glam and also balllads to tug at those heart strings. Pour a drink turn up the tunes and indulge yourself in some classic punk'n' roll it will definitely be a BLAST!
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SWEET CHEATER:: Eatin' Ain't Cheatin
From the outset you can tell that Sweet Cheater's Eatin' Ain't Cheatin' is obviously a release of material that was produced from back in the glory days, it sounds out-dated out of place and not up with today's music scene at all, ALL factor's that make for a great spin! I feel like jumping into my black pontiac firebird with my high maintenance cheerleader girlfriend and tearing up the freeway! The whole CD is just the best of days, being out in the sun, having a few drinks and just living like there's no tomorrow a never ending hot summer on the strip with your friends. With a vocal and arrangement that just smacks so much of Ratt and Stephen Pearcy it's untrue, this CD could be Detonator's evil twin, it's a fantastic kick back, no screaming vocals or fussy guitars, just well crafted good time rock n roll, a brilliant nostalgic listen: I loved it, I'll meet you at the Rainbow!!! website
JOKER FIVE SPEED:: Rock n Roll is a Motherf**ker
We just know things are gonna get dirty with these jokers in the joint! From the first 30 seconds of this CD your pinned, no mercy here, this freight train is rolling and your being dragged behind by your hair! Your beaten down with a wall of rhythm guitar that is too big to scale, spat at with venomous vocals and beaten down with relentless skin pounding, just when there's a break and things calm down enough for you to catch your breathe your lured into a false sense of security and then...BOOM! were off again, but you can't help but love the pain, you want more and more even though your in pieces. I love the layered vocal sound and backing, I love the guitars, I love the substance and power of 'Rock n Roll is a Motherf**ker', but I have to agree that this rock n roll IS a Motherf**ker!!! A great listen, harsh, raw and dirty, great!
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SILVER DIRT::Crank It Up
'Crank it up' it's a rock n roll record' is what your greated with, followed by a swift kick in the crown jewels! If this got anymore high octane we'd have a serious explosion and national emergency on our hands, this is harsh, heavy and unforgiving, Silver Dirts brand of bourbon soaked sleaze n roll featured on 'Sonic Boom' is a classic set-up, screaming leads with all the whistles and bells thrown in, a rhythm section that has more bite than a gator and gritty vocals that
spit fire. 'Sonic Boom' is well produced and musically very well balanced, you can tell that these guys are giving 110% throughout every track and every riff and hi-hat has been thoroughly thought through down to the last detail. Silver Dirt have put out a very strong CD and deserve all the relevant positive feedback, this has all the right ingredients so here's hoping!
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BABYLON BOMBS:: Doin' You Nasty
A welcome return of great Scandinavian RNR!, I've missed these rowdy rockers! From the outset your cracked in the jaw with pounding rhythm, and lyrics that blur your mind like opium, the sing-along style of Babylon Bombs is still very clear especially in the awesome 'Hometown Hero' and as ever I just want to hear all of these tracks live, pumped through a wall of Marshalls! The CD is well produced and arranged and as ever the tracks are pure art, I would say that 'Doin' You Nasty' is more commercial and polished than previous offerings from the Bombs and not quite as raw, however, still great rock n roll! I do think that Babylon Bombs are on a line, they need to keep a handle on that dirty, unhinged rawness that we love and not become too nice and presentable!
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RED STAR REBELS:: Too Young To Care (EP)
The Red Star Rebels maybe 'too young to care', but they should have cared more about the production of this EP, first impressions and all, but let's look past that and see if the rest of the EP makes me care or click stop. After listening to the 4 tracks on this EP I have to say that i'm not convinced by the Rebels, I think maybe the song writing and arrangement is the weak link, these musicians can obviously handle their kit, but I don't think they have a strong enough direction or sound, I
can't put a finger on their style which is often good, but in this case it's because the tracks are too vague, the EP doesn't hit home 'LISTEN THE FK' UP!' it's not a slap in the face it's more of an apologetic 'Would you care to listen', I think the Rebels need to get an 'identity' and make a statement to let everyone know they have landed and won't be ignored.
DOLLY DAGGERS:: Cd Ep
With a sound that's melodic, desperate and sleazy at the same time, Dolly Daggers show a potential that could let them become the next rock & roll sensation from sunny Scandinavia! The mini cd is composed of 4 smoking tracks, “If i could dance” kicks off in a 70's glitter trash style, I absolutely dig the vocals that really fit the band’s visual approach. “Never ending” has an atmospehere reminescent of 80's pop while “A Face to Put On” rocks off à-la Tsar/Robin Black. Closing track “Numb” is a pop-rock number along the lines of The Darkness minus the –sometimes- irritating screams. Fine, this cd is damn fine, now find the right producer and give us a full-lenght monster, folks!
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STEREO JUNKS:: Suicide Angels
Strap yourself in these suicide angels are turning up the heat and there's gonna be a meltdown! How does Scandinavia do it, they seem to have a relentless stream of red hot RNR that rarely fails to bring something fiery to the table, the Stereo Junks are no exception. Force feeding the listener low slung, sleazy and snearing rock n roll these Finnish fireballs are blazing a trail that's gonna leave a big scar. I caught these guys live recently and from the first grinding chord the pace is set, and it's fast and harsh, the sort of sound that makes your fist pound the air and your heart race, I do have to say that early on in the set vocals were a little shaky and it took a while for the band to gel and get the train rolling but I think this was mainly due to the excess of the previous nights 'entertainment', as the set progressed the vigour and energy shone through, sweat flew and mics were punished. A great EP, well written and produced and building a very solid foundation coupled with a live set that doesn't disappoint, this bunny has teeth lets hear more very soon!!
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INTERNAL DISFUNCTION :: Nine Feet Under
Describing themselves as "a mixture of glam style and theatricality" I found myself a little unsure of what to expect, I guess one easy way to find out is to jam that CD into the player! Musically Internal Disfuntion are very well armed, their sound is balanced and these guys can obviously handle themselves exceptionally, however I feel that to be producing this style/genre of music in 2006 isn't going to reap the credit and reward that the band so deserves. Catchy choruses and very well crafted RNR is a great quality to have, however I'm not sure this sound will appeal unless you are a die hard 80's rock fan and even then I think it will be a select few. The talent is definitely there and the dedication isn't an issue but I think the direction may be a little off the beaten track, "Far Away From You" is a solid track and with work, filling and substance I think could be exactly where to aim, a little darker and more gritty. It's always great to hear something unique and different but on the flipside it also has to be viable, doing it for the love is all good but sales also have to be a big factor so as tours and furthering the band can be possible, I think Internal Disfuntion need to re-evaluate their focus and direction because otherwise they could well get buried alive! website
TRACY GANG PUSSY:: Black
Now there's a name I haven't heard in a while, I wonder if with their latest offering they have become more refined and mellowed any...HELL! I guess not!!!....Tracy Gang Pussy are a band that is quite simply HARSH! Do you know when something hurts so bad it's kind of good?, well here's a band that's gonna hurt you bad and you'll love every pain soaked minute. From the outset distorted twisted guitars are being rammed down your throat like rusted razor blades, backed up with an onslaught of drums and rhythm all coupled with venomous vocals that are spat out in your face like battery acid, but guess what, you still you want more and more you sicko’s! This CD is nasty and sneers like a fat world leader with no self respect, and even less respect for anyone else, all Tracy Gang Pussy want to do is chew you up and spit you back into the gutter with the trash! This band is wild, grossly talented and capable of...well...watch yourself!!!
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THE PLEASURES:: Cuming Out
This 5 track CD from the Pleasures is a slippery one, sort of like trying to hold onto a bar of rock n roll soap! With a musical arrangement that I have rarely heard, the tracks are full to overflowing with diverse effects and styles, a sordid mix of glitzy sci-fi glamour, interlaced with dark menacing undertones and guitar riffs that will leave you in a critical condition or tickled pink! It's a surreal listen, grinding heavy gothic power in one heartbeat and in the next you're showered with glitter! The Pleasures are a band that you - yourself will have to judge, there's no way in hell you could put your finger on this band and their sound, it's a mixed bag of rock n roll jiggery-pokery, some times sweet, sometimes sadisitic: it's guaranteed that they will open your eyes to a whole different world so play a little russian roulette and experience The Pleasures...but beware of that dark sweet pain that lurks!
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SEX SLAVES :: Bite Your Tongue
What can I say apart from I don't want to review this CD, I don't want you to waste time reading my rants, this band knocked me clean off my feet from the word GO! This is what I have been waiting for, for so long, sharp, adrenalized, raunchy NYC punk n roll. The Sex Slaves have totally revived my faith in the belief that there IS talent out there not just lame posers, these guys deserve to climb, climb, climb and get some major backing. Track such as 'All Night Long' and 'See You Naked' encompass everything that any rocker or punk holds dear, mainly screwin', drinkin' partyin' and raisin' merry hell couple that with tracks such as 'One More Night' and 'Kiss Me' just make those little hairs raise on your neck . This is a fistful of rough cut diamonds, a unique sound, which is well produced and arranged so thank Jack Daniel's for the Sex Slaves, I for one salute you all!
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CHERRY MONROE :: The Good The Bad and The Beautiful
A band I first saw gracing the pages of Alternative Press Magazine with an advertisement for their 'The Good, The Bad and The Beautiful' CD, I was intrigued to see if their sparkling and glamorous image matched their music, so I put the musical wheels in motion and here we are CD in hand. I have to say it's nice to see a band trying to be unique with their image and promote themselves amidst all those unhappy, angry hardcore screamers. The CD was quite a surprise, I found myself listening to a mix of SR71, laced with strong Goo Goo Dolls vibes and vocals and maybe even the Harlots from Canada, very well produced lively and good easy listening, I could definitely see Cherrymonroe getting airplay and acclaim over in the US and Canada their sound is very radio friendly and commercially viable and I see a bright future for these colourful characters, they do their job VERY well indeed a strong CD with a LOT of promise.
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THE NASTYS :: Old Wine New Bottle
With more slide guitar than a game of RNR snakes and ladders The Nasty's offer up grinding, booze soaked RNR that you can't help but give a filthy snigger to. I do think that vocally The Nasty's may have a slight weakness, there isn't vast changes in style or execution and maybe it's more harmonies or differing vocal levels that are needed but that aside the tracks have all the right factors, they're hard edged, raw and packed full of grit. The Nasty's no doubt would be a great band to see live and I don't think that polished CD's do them full justice, I would say that the full effect would be felt with a beer in your hand and your fist punching the air whilst The Nasty's ground you down with good time RNR!.
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NASTY KIXX :: Hometown Blues
Interestingly spelt name, very 'arty' CD artwork but can this nasty bunch deliver the goods! When my ears have stopped ringing I will let you know! I was so ready for something a little less aggravated seeing as the CD was entitled 'Hometown Blues', I'd settled down for a night of stroking my alligator and bluegrass country music what a mistake to make, instead I am smacked square in the kisser with snotty vocals, enough rhythm and lead guitar to kill a man and some sweet harmonies just to make my demise that little bit more crazed! Very well produced, musically well balanced, great artwork and a very refreshing surprise the only criticism I have is I'm not keen on the band name as it seems a little 'dated' but otherwise this CD will beat you down and you'll love it!
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MR. NASTYS :: Ain't Dead Yet
A CD for you sleazier souls of society, Mr Nasty drags me kickin', bitin' and screamin' back to the hazy days of bands such as Tattooed Loveboys, Nasty Idols and even The Seahags, a heady mix of low slung grinding rhythm guitar, rasping vocals and lyrics that are spat out at you like razor blades. The whole CD has a very distinct snarl and swagger to it nothing fancy nothing dressed up just harsh riffs and hooks that will hit you like lumps of RNR shrapnel! Mr Nasty aren't ready to roll over and die they have plenty of life in them, if there's a night out on the tiles up for grabs you can guarantee these rogues will be first to the bar and last out, just plain ol' gutter RNR!!!
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GASOLINE QUEEN :: Cd Ep
Well with a name such as this what do you expect, a full strings section and some piano maybe, sorry your in the wrong dept! This is dirty, hook riddled rock n roll, churned out at a break neck speed and pumped full to bursting with vigour and raw unbridled power, with gritty vocals and guitars that scream like banshees in the night this band is loud, obtrusive and proud of it! A well produced 4 track CD with lots of promise, if you like your music to give you the feel of being strapped to the front of a runaway freight train, then get your self a tank full of Gasoline Queen, high octane and very prone to blowing up in your face without warning, a good strong CD, I look forward to more of the same!
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SPIDERS & SNAKES :: Hollywood Ghosts
The grandaddies of glitter glam are back with 'Hollywood Ghosts' and let's face it, Hollywood is a place that many have died both on and off stage. Well I have to say that in my opinion Spiders and Snakes are one of those bands that you just can't put your finger on, their sound is timeless, often with early Bowie, Stones, Beatles and T-Rex sounds, coupled with crazy whining blues harmonica and even country twangs, both of these elements blatantly obvious in the tracks 'Angelyne' and 'Spiders & Snakes'. This CD is truly mind boggling, but also SO MUCH FUN. Quirky, tongue in cheek lyrics and a direction that truly does echo the glory days of Hollywoods Sunset Strip and that sound that made glitter and glam so great. A two disc set; 12 audio tracks and a 15 track DVD, full of the songs, the insane outfits and onstage antics. Spiders and Snakes ARE Hollywood and will be until they die, amen!
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ADLER'S APPETITE :: Ep
Immediately on firing this CD up the room is filled with a distinctive Guns N Roses slur with riffs and fills to match, your immediately aware that some habits are truly hard to break, mind you when it's a habit such as Guns N Roses then it ain't necessarily a bad thing. Vocally I admit to expecting a little more, more grit, more heartbreak and more bite but it wasn't to be, the whole affair is very controlled and has obviously had some very careful arrangement, slick guitars, honey coated harmonies which all in all make for very easy listening. Adler's Appetite isn't a $15 eat as much as you like feast where you can tuck in, forget your manners and pig out, but more of a gastronomic 'a lå Carte' meal for the more discerning rocker, well prepared and presented, smooth and pleasant on the palette and garnished with just the right amount of sides, filling but not quite enough.
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TRIGGERDADDY :: Stereosonic Meltdown
Gilby Clarke? Do I now have your interest? Good. As with many projects that Gilby is in or involved with there seems to be a definite 'sound' that rears it's head, Triggerdaddy is no exception. With Gilby there always seems to be an underlying 'Classic RNR' sound which strong, solid and powerful entwined, woven and laced with a mix of guitar styles from heavy crunching power chords to sultry blues held together by a rhythm section that is a tight as it ever could be. Triggerdaddy features the services of a r&r icon like Tim Karr and offers up a CD that is refreshing: each track has a certain something which Gilby does so well, the song writing on the CD is a pleasure to listen to, with tracks like 'Enemy' reminding me so much of the Beatles. I would consider this CD to be more for a 'listener' it's got all the RNR whistles and bells you can handle, sure, but the rest of it's substance should be fully appreciated, this isn't new and naive, it's the fruits of experience, dedication and an abundance of great talent.
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AMERICAN ANTHEM :: S/t
The name is no lie, this band are truly Anthemic, from the outset I'm thrown an abundance of catchy hooks, great harmonies and find myself drowning in crisp backing vocals. Sporting a sound not dissimilar to that of SR71 and at times even the legendary Marvellous 3, American Anthem save us from the ear splitting screams and 100mph+ 10 minute guitar solo's, offering 'ENTERTAINMENT' a welcome and refreshing change from the two a penny Backyard Babies wannabe's, or bands that spend their entire earnings on make-up and clothes but couldn't crank out a good tune if their eyeliner depended on it. This CD doesn't burst through any barricades, but does have crucial qualities many bands miss, or just ignore, including great production, an appealing memorable sound and most importantly, musicians that ARE musicians! Good job guys!
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CRYSTAL PISTOL :: S/t
Well it's about time, after the release of their first EP sometime around the arse end of way back whenever, here it is, the full blown package that is Crystal Pistol. Dare to squeeze the trigger and you'll get the idea. Dirty low slung guitars, screaming vocals to bring you too your knees and a sleazy rhythm section constantly pounding you from every angle, this CD is about as pleasant as chewing glass. The louder you wind it up the nastier things get, but in an truly demented way and it feels So good, tracks such as 'Rockstar', 'Locomotive' and 'No Fun City' leave you fired up and pumped with energy. Crystal Pistol are powerful, strong and dominant in every shape and form the wait was truly worth it. It's time for Russian roulette, but whatever happens it's gonna go off and you lose!
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FASTBACK :: The Pain Of Beauty
Fastback...straight off this word conjures up muscle cars and V8 speed in my mind, a fastback mustang and some down n dirty RNR, hell yeh that's what I fancy so do Fastback deliver?...Read on...Featuring ex guitarist of Beautiful Creatures Michael Thomas the first track has my heart beat revved up, and my veins pumping with gasoline so it looks like I'm getting just what I asked for and so are the girls by the lyrics!. With a slightly distorted sound and some chords that could crack your ribs at ten paces these guys are living and breathing RNR, Fastback is about, tattoos, speed and ALOT of riding...both in cars and also a great deal involving the fairer sex! The CD is well produced and the louder you turn the damn thing up the better it gets, hard, pacey, gritty and fit for good times and living to excess, if these guys hit a strip near you be ready for some grinding high octane RNR!"
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THE STUFF :: Pick It Up, Pig Boy
A band with masks in the style of big rats heads...now either these guys are butt ugly or maybe they are using it to give that 'mystery' element and they have some serious talent to hide. From the outset I can tell that this is one of those CD's that is gonna be like trying to push a cube into a round hole, the whole thing is just unique, I can't make up my mind if that is a good or a bad 'unique'. With distorted vocals that flow endlessly into themselves and are sung with an uncanny ease whilst being backed up with some of the craziest synth, keyboard and percussion sounds that I've heard in a long time. The whole thing is addictive, you don't know what it is that you like, the screaming distorted guitars, crashing drums or just the plain old way in that you can't make head nor tale of it, it's just playing away and dragging you in closer and closer, The Stuff have definitely got the 'Stuff' to make for a promising career but I just can't put my finger on what their 'Stuff' actually is...
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RAZZLE DAZZLE :: RZD Inc.
My last encounter with Razzle Dazzle was a fun one if I remember rightly, it seems like the eyeliner may have smudged a little as Razzle Dazzle Inc winds up into full flow i'm greeted with a more gritty vocal sound but it's a sort of grit with big lumps of glitter lodged in there also, sparkling and glinting with that cheekyness I loved before. As the CD continues I realise this is still the fun that was had before but this time it's just a little more 'adult' more rhythm and conviction coupled with a more developed musical arrangement and it's all for the better. Razzle Dazzle seem to be swapping their sugar dummies and candy canes for rolled up Playboy magazines and a pack of smokes, what was once a toyroom giggle is now a bar room sneer, so let's get the party started, see you at the bar!
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SLIPPING STICHES :: Melody Cruise
When I heard that Slipping Stitches had involvement with the legend that is Michael Monroe I just knew that this was a must hear, but this review is about the band, not the behind the scenes or musical helping hands, so will this tear me limb from limb or is it going to be a graze and nothing to worry about, lets do this... Straight from the first cut there's a plethora of screaming guitars that is like unleashing a pack of hounds baying for blood, fast aggressive and raw yet in a strange way controlled and refined and with a definite aim and conviction. Strong vocals and rhythm section with lyrics that are a refreshing change, no high school proms, camero's or first dates here this band are far to adult for such juvenile goings on, pumping out fast hard energy driven tunes relentlessly with total abandon. I wouldn't say that Slipping Stitches are a unique sound, far from it, and they may well have to fight to keep the critics off their back but they do what they do professionally and with a vigour and commitment that is truly commendable, no anaesthetic here...this is gonna hurt!
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SILVERTIDE :: Show & Tell
OK roll out the big guns here comes Silvertide, from the word GO! you get a BIG sound made popular by bands such as the now reformed Tyketto but with a definite country twang à-la early Black Crowes. Silvertide is up-beat, very well produced and has more twiddly guitar solo's than Stevie Vai on speed, HUGE choruses, harmonies in abundance and all the elements that made those 90's bands so very popular and loved by so many, you get good time well bashed out RNR f'sure, but I'm just not sure as it is what makes the grade in todays musical climate, however to those die hard US hard'n'roll fans and lovers of all things in the vein of Danny Vaughn and such suspects then this is a must! De-frizz your hair, slip into those favourite brown suede cowboy boots and swing it like there ain't no tomorrow you'll love it.....but for now..."Forever young, time on my side we've got tomorrow..."
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LANDSLIDE LADIES :: Six Strings & Cigarettes
This is the second encounter I've had with these sleaze hounds, they swaggered by a while ago with their snotty vocals and well abused ensemble of instrumentation, bearing all the scars of seedy clubs and nights of abandon and debauchery. However, this meeting sees a slightly less confrontational side to the Landslide Ladies, weilding more of an acoustic set up. Production on this 6 song CD is much improved and makes for a great spin, the tracks even give those heartstrings a little tug in places and all rounded off at last orders with a cover of Demolition 23's 'Hammersmith Palais', neat, not to mention ‘A Little Bit of Whore...’ done by the mighty Johnny Thunders!!! It's gritty, bluesy and very RNR, I'm pretty sure if Stiv Bators and Johnny Thunders we're still tearing up this planet they'd be sharing a drink or ten with these reprobates, it'll be a while before time is called here so fill your shot glass and here’s to ’em!
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THE POPZILLAS :: Pandora Pop
Now this 3 track taster is like sort of being stuck in limbo, I hear a number of different female artists here the sound of Popzilla's flips me back to the days of such bands as Sleeper, Manson and Portishead the roughly rounded up genre of early UK brit pop, the one band that springs into my mind immediately is 'Echobelly', the music is the same tempo the female vocals are very similar and the musical arrangement and style is well within the ball park. Popzilla's are 100% all about POP! the 3 tracks lack substance and depth but do they need them? This is straight up guitar pop for the teenagers rather than the more discerning RNR fan, easy going unoffence, catchy but minus a big chunk of soul.

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SPARKLING BOMBS :: Dead Dreams From The Silver Gutter
Well...what the...where the...who the... WHO CARES! This is a CD that should be in every RNR's collection, no excuses don’t be weak let's go get bombed!!! I listen to the track 'Cheap Trash Honey' and BAM!!!, I'm like a damn pitbull with a diamond studded collar, I got this between my teeth and I'm not letting go for you or anybody I love it! Then unsuspectingly I get a kick up the rear from 'Candyfloss Girl' a different feel but this is sweet and a real treat f'sure! I am very impressed with the lead vocal talents on this CD, no pipe splitting screams or yelps, no dark growling mumbles just strong, crisp, talented RNR and I definitely hear some likeness to the feisty Robin Black, couple that with great production and a band that OBVIOUSLY knows how to do their job and it's makes for a great listen, well written, catchy and a final end product that would shame many 'named bands'. A professional CD, a hard working band, and a musical formula which could make for a glittering career!
website :: email
THE RANDIES :: At The Friendship Motor Inn
What a great name for a band, a gold star for starters! Lively, energetic vocals with that sticky lollipop sound our female RNR's seem to do so well, BUT, is this another 'Donna's'/'Eyeliners'... Well not those exact bands, but yes, this reminds me VERY much of Tuuli. The Randies bounce along with a retro RNR sound and retro image, however the songs lack substance, but I ask do they need it? This, to me, is high school pop rock, the production is good and the CD is an easy listen, it's like peaches 'n' cream but I would need MORE cream! This is fun music, for fun times which can't be bad thing, and if you happen to be a big fan of the aformentioned bands then this could well be one for promnight!
website :: email
 
ENEMIES SWE :: Behind Enemy Lines
Like a two bit call girl spitting glass in your face, this is cheap, obnoxious, used, abused and thoroughly hellish! From the outset with 'Powertrain' this CD is looking to rip you limb from limb this band invented the phrase 'lock up your daughters' but I'd say to lock up anything you cherish, it's loud, raw and nasty! If you like your RNR brash, 100mph+, wreaking of stale liquor and wet tattoo ink, then this may well be one to chain down, its harsh and unforgiving, making the likes of Backyard Babies sound like a knitting class! I need a rest, these snotty, snarling, gravelly vocals and sledge-hammer guitars are bigger than me, I give in, leave me be...
website :: email
NO COVER AVAILABLE.
RAT:DADDY :: Demo Tracks
A RNR plague or do we call in the exterminators! OK, one word I MUST use in this review is FULL, Ratdaddy's sound is well rounded, well crafted and very 'FULL', production can't be faulted, the balance throughout is a joy, with a strong rhythm section and considered guitar and vocal arrangement. Lead vocals are slightly weak and fall back on harmonies on a number of occasions, however the musical style conceals this factor well. Ratdaddy have catchy choruses, and a very melodic sound, laced with guitars in abundance. The CD warrants putting on your Levi's, white T-shirt and scuffed leather and blasting down the freeway at 100+ in your jet black black corvette, it's simple good time RNR!
website :: email
NERVOUS SHAKES :: Seperate Beds? I Don't Think So.
Hailing from Brussels, (!?!) your in for a mixed bag of punk 'n' roll! Maybe you'll pull out a candy cane or maybe it'll be a razor blade, whichever it's gonna leave a mark, sticky or bloody!!! The CD spins up, and immediately I experience the 'Shakes', the base lines are rib cracking, not unlike that of the 80's prince charming track 'Dog Eat Dog' by Adam Ant, now there's a comparison for you! Nervous Shakes is a filthy and crude mix of New York Dolls lipstick smears and Ramones leather n sneakers, filling your ears with an potent, firey mix of trashy r'n'r! There's no nerves here, and the only shakes maybe after a night of raw tunes and a concoction of substances, a great CD, punchy, well produced and oh so down 'n' dirty, I loved it!
email
SAMMY SERIOUS :: Last Stop O.P. Hotel
YAAAH! THEE original purple peril, Sammy Serious! Previous projects by Sammy haven't stoked my fire, but seein' as this is a Sammy solo CD I am drooling into my keyboard! In kicks the first track 'I might be fat' and Ii'm smiling from ear to ear, cheeky lyrics and that unique Sammy vocal which I can only describe as a manic depressive sucking the fattest lollypop in the candy store. The whole CD is a little more sedate than previous material, but meanders along nicely with it's fair share of bounces and flips. Sammy's vocals are a matter of love or hate and that is the make or break of this CD, it's not as madcap as the Zero's, the songs are more 'mature' but this is Sammy Serious, he will always have a little furry purple place in peoples hearts, order a Pina Colada BANG! and toast our favourite Zero and everyones hero Sammy Serious!!!
website :: email
THE GENDERS :: Demo Cd
So where's the girls n liquor!, we got some RNR going on here for sure, we're not re-inventing the wheel lets assume the ideal of 'if it ain't broke don't fix it!' we're just' rockin! A well balanced CD of out and out raw RNR no frills, no MTV, no million $$$ budget and no consideration for others, crank up everything to maximum and let's tear down your house and then the neighbours house!, this is reckless abandon the louder you wind up the dial the more the enjoyment, it's not 100mph grinding power, its bluesy sleazy RNR, male, female or other your gender isn't important, this band has ALL species covered if you like your RNR let's get it on!
www.thegenders.com
SWITCHBLADE :: Switchblade Serenade
This band is lead by Danish glam madman and former Metal Forces journalist Ken Anthony but I have to say that Switchblade is far from sounding like any of those Hollywood bands that Mr. Anthony was reviewing in the early 90's. What we have here is plenty of guitars and tons of drums, an image and sound that ain't million miles away from Circus of fuckin' Power and alike bands n' the feeling that this is the kind of cd you wanna hear in a crowded bar after a few drinks and too many cigarettes. Title track reminds me of US sleazy rockers Spread Eagle and not just for the title. What else? I can only wish Switchblade to draw first blood...
www.switchblade.dk
THE SHINE :: Pure Dynamite
So this CD is gonna go with a bang right? yeh we'll see... Straight off, the CD initial impressions is that the CD is well produced and bizarrely un-offensive (do we like that?) it's straight forward and uncomplicated RNR, plenty of screaming solo's and plenty of FAT rhythm sections and it's done REAL well, vocals are good but maybe a little weak in places which maybe evident if caught live? but I could well see me being taught to eat my words! This CD isn't going to break any barriers but if you fancy your chances then this is one band that is never gonna back down, it's ballsy, catchy and if given the chance it's gonna knock you for six and steal all your worth whiles! A professional, well considered CD with alot of potential if an opening was made available. if not it would bust it's own hole and leave a big F.U.!
website :: email
PRIVATE LINE :: 21st Century Pirates
So will Private line get lucky and strike gold or will they sink with one swashbuckling swipe, we set sail with 21st Century Pirates! As the CD spins up I'm confronted with loud, dominant, critically accurate RNR, and this baby's kicking me just where it hurts!... Chord after chord, pound after pound on the skins, coupled with my ears being filled by crisp, powerful vocals from the word go! this CD wreaks quality, the production is bang on the nail and the whole setup and sound is balanced with exceptional skill and finesse. With a gem of a cover of Motley Crues 'Live Wire' this CD made me one jolly roger! Hook yourself up with a copy before this ship sails!
www.privatelineweb.com
COWBOY PROSTITUTES :: Over the Top
Get on your bikes and ride! Firing off with 'Over The Top' you get a dose of RNR which smacks of more loose women, Jack Daniels and bar fights than you can shake a Harley at! Gritty, raw vocals coupled with a loud, arrogant and unapologetic sound these Cowboys are up for trouble...or are they... The flip side reveals the track 'Downtown' which could easily be seen as an apology for the filthy way you've just been treated, slower paced but still with that raw dirty feel!. With that 'Dangerous Toys' vocal rasp and enough attitude for everyone, if your not keen I suggest you keep your opinions to yourself or your gonna be spitting teeth, now get me another shot of JD and a chair to throw!
www.cowboysprostitutes.com
 
NO PICCY AVAILABLE!

BLACKBIRD :: 3-tr Demo

I've been hanging out to hear this Blackbird for sometime and I have to say it was worth the wait, well produced, easy listening and pacey rock n roll, don't get me wrong here I never said slow, the tracks are very upbeat but they lack the crunching guitars and crashing drums which makes for a refreshing change, the whole demo kind of reminds me of a wild west saloon girl; style and finesse but with a fat revolver stuck in her suspenders! Raise your shot glasses to Blackbird, RNR with fire in it's eyes!
www.blackbirdsnest.com
TIGERTAILZ *King Of The World* Cd Ep
Looks like the cryogenic glam chamber has taken the big cats of glam off ice, the feisty, technicoloured...Tigertailz! Fronted by original vocalist Steevi James, we ask has all that time on ice flattened their hair and smeared their makeup? As soon as the first track 'King Of The World' spins up, you hear Steevi and your mind flips back to the glory days, however this time around a heavier sound than the 'Young & Crazy' days, but after all, bands grow and mature. One criticism I have to make is the poor cover of Mudds 'Tigerfeet' mainly because the track has been covered to absolute DEATH, I would rather have heard another new Tailz track. If your a fan of Steevi then this is a must and isn't dissimilar to his 'Damned If You Do' solo CD. I'm not sure as Tigertailz will ever get back to the highs at which they were in the early days, but a good well produced demo and now all we need is MORE!!!! .::website::.
BASTET / PLAN 9 *Songs That Will Get You Laid* Split CD
Well if that ain't just a title to get you interested! This is a 10 track split CD, first 5 Bastet, last 5 Plan 9 ok? So what more do you want fries with that!!! It's RNR, that's all I need say, it's just good time, catchy as hell, well produced RNR!...now get me a jack and coke and lets go chase some girls!...This makes for a solid cd without a shadow of a doubt, talented musicians coupled with strong well crafted songs...now get me a jack and coke and let's go get in a fight!...If you like your music stained in tattoo ink, stinking of cheap cigarettes and drowned in illicit liquor then get your self a CD with - 'Songs That Will Get You Laid' on, you won't be disappointed...now where's that jack and coke DAMN IT!!!...
.::Bastet::. .::Plan9::.
THE PSYCHOS *Demo 03*
So do you wanna hang out with a group of Psychos? Not your usual pastime I know but hell let's give it a go! I'm definitely getting a kind of psycho-billy/horror rock vibe here, complete with little movie clips and monster samples. I think this sound and style is a little overdone and rung-out at present but I also appreciate that there are many people out there that love this style of music, I for one love bands such as the Frankenstein Dragqueens and the legendary Misfits but they're, in my opinion, cornered the market in a big way. The Psychos do it pretty well, although the lead vocals can be a little lost at times when things get up to full speed. I don't think the Psychos are much of a threat to society but on the flip side you wouldn't want to have them as your babysitter, worth a spin if your home alone but keep the lights on OK! .::website::. .::email::.
BLACK HILL *Nasty Nights*
Mmmm 'Nasty Nights'... I am so not looking forward to writing this review after the first wade through this CD... All I feel here is that it's the same ol' same ol' from back in the day, and I don't know why bands are still doing this, big vocals and plenty of screaming to prove the size of the lead singers pipes! Every track just felt exactly the same, it was like one long CD drowned in backing vocals and harmonies, laced with screeching guitar solo's and some stadium sounding drums. This is just flat Hard Rock, it's not annoying, it's not terrible to listen to and obviously the members of the band can play their instruments and the whole arrangement is tight, but it is so 1995 and so 'done' and worn out, I didn't even make it through the whole demo as it was just a drain on me. This is for big fans of ole' Hard'n'Heavy and 110 decibel vocals.
.::website::. .::email::.
SUZY SUNLESS *Damned by the nite*
From the outset and initial grinding track, 'Damned By The Nite', it's evident that this band knows exactly what it's on with...dirty, high octane, low slung RNR with that great in your face reckless abandon that we all know and love. All songs are well produced and intertwined with some quirky, clever guitar hooks to add that snapping pitbull bite to the relentless rhythm guitar and unforgiving pounding of the skins. There's no doubting that this is a talented RNR band for sure, but they aren't breaking any barriers which is a shame, Suzy need to unearth that spark that will set them on fire, once they can ignite that Suzy Sunless will truly SHINE! .::website::. .::email::.
MALICE IN WONDERLAND *Sin & Decadence*
So in crawls the first track 'Dancing With You' an ensemble of stereotypical organ harmonies and immediately I expected a drawn out, dark, moody affair with strings, lengthy instrumental interludes and bizarre never ending tinkles and squeals on numerous synthesizers and pianos....Instead I found myself being dragged hypnotically into the music, Malice In Wonderland wreaks of all those classic gothic/industrial qualities that you'd expect, subdued vocals, distorted pace and sound and an atmosphere like a huge black cloud raining blood. The whole CD is very well balanced, produced and structured, setting it apart from numerous other bands of this genre which has to be a plus point. If your a fan of recent 69 Eyes releases, and the acclaimed Die My Darling then this CD may well be worth spilling some blood for, and nothings sweet about this wonderland...
.::website::. .::email::.
MOTORCITY BRAGS *Demo Cd*
Does this Motor rev me up? Well, I'm sorry to say it stalls at the first junction. My attention is immediately drawn to the weak vocals and poor musical arrangement, which may be due to a tight budget but it's one big factor that can kill a band from the word GO. The musical set-up seems to be conflicting, one minute i'm hearing over produced bass then thudding drums all coupled with vocals that just aren't up to scratch. There's some musical talent and plenty of motorcity attitude here tho' this motor just doesn't seem as though it has got enough gas to do the miles.
.::website::. .::email::.
THE SCIENCE FICTION IDOLS *Spooky Sugar*
Lead by ex-Trash Vegas Bobby Lamonde, this Pittsburgh four piece doesn't give a flying fuck about being totally outta fashion; they bury you under a ton of irresistible trashy pop tunes played with passion, joy and glamour. Borrowing from old icons like Bolan and Bowie, the overall sound is quite energetic and makes the Idols a glitter rock fan's dream come true. The tongue-in-cheeck rocker 'Cats Galore' even reminds me of the London Quireboys and it's one of the album's highlights together with opener 'I love your mouth' and the 70's glam anthem 'Born Beautiful'. 'New Man Tonight' comes across like an impossible mix of Dogs D'amour, Beat Angels and Cheap trick and the whole album definitely rocks my white ass off! Buy this stuff NOW.
website
PETER BLAST *Explode*
Name ring any bells? well, this rocker was playing RNR whilst many of us we're walking around with diapers around the back of our knees! With friends by the names Johnny Thunders, Stiv Bators, and more recently Chip Z Nuff, need I say more? I expected, because of the history, the tracks to be raw and trashy, however, this wasn't the case. The songs are all exceedingly well produced with outstanding guitaring, but no suprise there!!! Smokey bourbon stained blues through to brilliantly crafted timeless RNR classics. The whole CD smacks of experience, everything is immaculatley arranged, the production is right on the money and it holds together without fault. Unique vocals, great lyrics and 'Paint it Black' by the Stones, what more do you want? Thank-you Peter this was fun and truly a BLAST!!!!
website
SNAKE OIL SUPERCHARM *A Tribute To Zodiac Minwarp & The Love Reaction*
A band name that I hadn't heard for many a year, this tribute CD is good value if nothing else, full to bursting with 20+ tracks, not big buck bands but don't be decieved, there's an abundance of talent here never the less, and it slaps you HARD round the face like a call girl that you can't pay! As with Zodiac Mindwarp, you pay your money and in return you get yourself a oily fistful of RNR! The whole CD pounds along like a freight train with the brake pipes slashed, from tongue in cheek lyrics to chords and drums that are gonna leave you on the critical list, this damn thing is brash, ballsy and just plain dirty, your gonna have to keep this on a short leash it's out to infect and abuse, a definite 'Primemover'...call the emergency room! www.sleazegrinder.com

UNITED ENEMIES *Made in USA*
BOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!! Here we go kids! No time for hanging around this CD has just picked you up by the seat of your pants and is now dragging you through the dirt at 100mph! Nothing revolutionary, VERY Backyard Babies/Hardcore Superstar/Babylon Bombs, but so what! It makes no apologies AT ALL and is done so damn well. United Enemies are a band that are going to be a riot in the live arena, distorted, heavy and downright aggresive, your ears are in for some serious abuse! The only negative point is the generic Scandanavian sound but I have to say that the edge that Backyard Babies seemed to have lost in later years the United Enemies were obviously the guys that stole it, just like they'd steal candy form a baby with no regrets. A short CD but I'm not sure as my heart could have coped with much more, loud, proud and out to crack some skulls!
website

ANTI PROCUCT *Made in USA*
Let's just get one thing straight here, if you pick up ANY Anti-product CD you know that your always in for something a little different, the image, the lyrics and those one off vocals, it's always TOTALLY unique! This is no exception, how the hell do you people expect me to review this! Strong, powerful vocals which morph into some of the oddest little ditties you'll hear, backed up by honey coated female strains and encased by pounding drums and guitar chords that would bust your ribs! I've always seen Anti-product as a RNR musical, theatrical and dramatic but with that child like outlook, a bundle of well produced fun, if you fancy something somewhat different but VERY entertaining then this is one product to slap on your shopping list, it's just a crazy blast!!!

website
* e-mail
ZITTER *Alligator Highway*
Ok should Zitter be SNAPPED! up?...
The first thing to hit home is the production, it's really not the greatest, however, not everyone has a budget of endless $$$ so let's push that aside for now and get down to the nitty gritty. A vocal rollercoaster, gravelly and not particularly enthusing, initially maybe a slight Backyard Babies slant, but I am also getting a feel of 69 Eyes in places but minus the talent of both bands I'm sorry to say. The vocals are flat and uninspiring and I think the guitar slots may have been played through a practice amp?!?. Overall if Zitter consider this to be an 'Alligator Highway' I would gladly walk across it with a lump of chicken strapped to my rump and have no fear of being attacked as there is simply just no 'BITE!' to these tracks at all.
website
* e-mail
VANITY INK *What the hell?!*
Heavy harmonies, good production, dominant guitars and strong tracks, but once again the female vocals are weak and sound strained struggling to cut it, in comparison to the well crafted musical arrangement, which is a shame. Vanity Ink lack vocal style, ie should we go for the 'Brody/Distillers' sound or maybe a more traditional 90's sound, which I would consider the more favourable, either way some kind of direction needs to be taken to lift the vocals and get them in line with the other elements which work well, as at the moment I think they are a bit of a weight around the neck of the band, which is obviously trying it's hardest to swim but is being dragged down by this overpowering force, I can see cracks in the make-up here and alls not looking too pretty.

website
* e-mail
PARADICE *Sex, Lipstick Rock'n'Roll*
I'm a gambling man, so I thought i'd give em' a roll and see what happened...
From the off my ears prick up and are drawn to some well produced, tight RNR, it's obvious that these musicians know their job like the back of their hand, it shines throughout the whole CD. Vocally...'Houston we have a problem'...I've heard a number of female vocalist and I'm sorry to say this time it's just not working at all. The vocals lack variation and power, which is a shame as it makes some tracks seem to drag on, harmonies are the one thing that rescues some of the songs, theres no edge or fire to the vocals and I hate to admit defeat but eject was hit as the vocals we're turning me completely off. Maybe it's personal choice but I need substance, which Pair A Dice musically have in abundance, but vocally the odds are stacked firmly agianst them and they just lost the gamble in quite a big way. website
* e-maail

RAZZLE DAZZLE *What the hell?!*
"Sit down and get ready to be F****D!" - Well, that's the instructions given by the honey coated voice of the female that introduces Razzle Dazzle's 'What the Hell' demo, so bring it on! Straight off this band have me smiling, great lighthearted lyrics, sugary harmonies, and cheeky little solo's in abundance. It's fun, very easy listening and in today's scene of bands often playing crunching power chords and pounding drums, well this is thee flip side, it's a welcome change. This demo SKIPS along like a pixie on speed, your toes will be tapping and you'll be grabbing the nearest two items that resemble drumsticks within minutes, your moms knitting needles or maybe your dads chopsticks just as he twirls his last few noodles, whatever, it's FUN, no frills, straight forward RNR with a party in its pocket!

www.rzd.it

LANDSLIDE LADIES *Loud, lou$y & loo$e*
Think gutters, sleaze and abuse, this is down n dirty from start to finish. As I listen to Landslide Ladies i am getting flash backs to the punks of London and the back to basics style of The Heartbreakers and early Hanoi. Vocals are gravelly and very raw, hooked up with dubious backing vocals which in places get very mixed up in the lead, and do let this CD down, particularly evident on the tracks 'Hollywood' and 'New Disease'; that aside this is a NO FRILLS band that obviously love what they do, and they do it well. Landslide Ladies aren't going to break any barriers but I do think they will be playing when many bands have long hung up their guitars, definitely Loud, Lousy and Loose but in all the best possible ways!
http://landslideladies.too.it
PRETTY SUICIDE *3tr demo*
Fresh, fresh fresh! The overwhelming element that lovingly slapped me round the face as the first track got underway, making this band so appealing. Many bands with female vocalists sound very generic but you couldn't be more wrong with Pretty Suicide, I definitely hear a Debbie Harry sound coming through, laced with great harmonies. Production on this CD is tip-top and the balance of sound and vocals is bullseye. I thoroughly enjoyed every track on the sampler, right down to the great cover of 'Tomorrow' (Kiss) which is a cheeky lil' teaser that plays you out. A very professional CD, and a band with a bright future, forget the suicide, this bands sitting pretty!
www.prettysuicide.com
BUTCHERS BILL *Quick and painful*
Sunday morning and Butchers Bill...BAAAAM!!! I'm grabbed by the scruff of my scrawny neck and swung round the room by crunchin' guitars and relentless poundin drums, aggressive high octane RNR a go-go! Sleazy vocals, not dissimilar to that of Backyard Babies and, dare I say, the early days of the Rolling Stones but with more WHACK than a jack hammer, this CD is just down right DIRTY!!!. An aggressive yet remarkably restrained sound, with more guitars than you can handle and vocals that are an insult on your well being. A very well produced CD with a sound that is fast, loud and degenerated, a band to see live f'sure, I'm now well and truly BUTCHERED!
email
MAMA KIN *Party time*
Ok, so it's Party Time! Mama Kin spins up and at first listen i hear talented musicians that can handle theirselves and their weapons of choice without a doubt, vocals that are full of substance and songs that are packed with energy and that good ol' rock/AOR spirit. However, I just feel that it's nothing I haven't heard many times before, there's a missing detail to set them apart from the gaggle of bands that play in this vein, but as they say 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it!'. A band for the more hardened Rock/AOR fan, but one that stamps it's authority and stands strong, some great tracks played with feeling and vigour. Not so much 'Party Time' as get the beers in and let's crank up some good time rock.
www.mamakin.tk
THE REVOLVERS *End of Apathy*
Rough cut, rawkus RNR that makes no apologies for it's bad attitude, all interlaced with catchy hooks and strong melodies, you'd swear you'd heard this band before, each track lodges itself firmly in your mind and becomes a friend at first listen. The Revolvers is an upbeat fresh and original sound with strong vocals and an unforgiving rhythm. With songs like 'What Happened To My Attitude' and 'No Clash Reunion' you may try and resist a quick pogo but like an itch you just gotta scratch it, and you'll be crankin' up your player and jumpin off that old beige couch within seconds! A mix of old skool punk with '04 technology and production, an energetic CD full of promise...pull the trigger if you dare!

www.peoplelikeyourecords.de

DOGDAYS *Broke in Hollywood*
Straight outta the glitz and glamour of Hollyweird, comes Dogdays, a very RNR affair, with tracks chock full of guitars, attitude, catchy harmonies and sleazy vocals, oh your mom just ain't gonna like these fella's f'sure! Pumping out well crafted, considered and memorable songs Dogdays is totally at home spinning in your CD player but I think more at home in a dark smokey LA club filled with RNR lunatics spitting beer and California girls getting down and dirty. Dogdays aren't re-inventing the wheel with this CD and I am unsure as to how their sound will develop and the direction they will take, but for now they're definately having fun, playing some great music and your going to struggle to keep this RNR pitbull on it's leash, these dogs bite, so look out!!!
www.dogdaysrock.com

MCQUEEN STREET *2*
A very big sound, a very big voice and very big power ballads!. McQueen Street bring back memories of the countless AOR bands from back in the day, listening to the CD I'm hearing those 110 decibel vocals, pounding drums and screaming guitars, unfortunately this is a factor that goes against the CD. I found the lead vocals to be a little strained at times, however, the songs are well produced and the band can't be doubted as to their overall talent, the essential missing element has to be that unique touch to make it stand out from the crowd, if you are an avid aor fan then there is a big chance you will really like McQueen Street, a professional CD, well produced but just didn't light that fire inside.
www.mcqueenstreet.com
BITCH ALERT *Rriotl*
So I settle in on a wet windy day to give ‘Bitch Alert’ it’s first spin, as I get comfortable I am SO HOPING that I’m not gonna have my ears filled with another Donnas/Eyeliners... After wandering through the first couple of tracks I wasn’t at all excited or fired up and my concentration was starting to wonder, which is never a good sign so early on in the proceedings. Musically Bitch Alert were sounding slightly inexperienced, they seemed to sound nervous with their instruments, odd as it may sound. Now I’m on 'Monday', feeling uninspired and moving towards the ‘Stop’ button...'Loveson'...'Dirty White'...FK YEAH, here we go, backing away from ‘stop’ and slumping back in my chair. It was as if the band had musically matured by like 5 years, more variation both musically and in overall style, alot more depth and feel, with much more substance, vocally sounding not dis-similar to the gravely voiced ‘Brody of the great ‘Distillers’ camp!I have to say from this point on the picture being painted is MUCH brighter, the rest of the CD held my attention well, and I really started to warm to those snotty, raw vocals. A CD that took a little warming up but on reaching temperature left some pretty neat scorch marks, well worth a spin!

www.poko.fi

CRASH KELLY *Penny Pills*
At first spin the Crash Kelly bug will bury itself DEEP under your skin and tunnel into your subconscious, sounds a lil' harsh I hear you say, believe me you will like that feelin' more than you can imagine. Pure unadulterated RNR tunes born from the ashes of bands such as T-Rex, Alice Cooper, Kiss Rolling Stones and the totally hook filled Cheap Trick!!!! A well produced, fresh and a 'current' CD, lovingly put together with that, in today's scene, sometimes rare fine attention to detail, coupled with that everlasting thirst to play straight forward powerful RNR with unrelenting style and undying vigour! Tracks that particularly shine have to be '11 Cigarettes', 'Wanna be like you' and 'Penny Pills', if your not fired up and ready to go to a RNR show after the first 5 minutes of this CD then you obviously lost your kool a LONG time ago. To really appreciate Crash Kelly you have to see them play live, a show that's loud and fun with music that is as tight as a camels butt in a sand storm! Overall a professional and cheeky CD, the awesome 'corkscrew' hair and a live set that will make your internals bounce with energy!You want something to cure that RNR ache? pop this lil' pill and wait for the reaction, great stuff! www.crashkelly.ca

CANDY * Teenage Neon Jungle *
A CD brimming with rare and unreleased tracks from this little known and immensely underrated 80's LA pop/rock band, who epitomise the essence of american pop rock! So how do you describe these American 80's hearthrobs, a hard one f'sure, the label of pop/rock can cover a massive spectrum of bands so bare with me, well, the easiest way to describe a band such as Candy is quite simply the bastard sons of 'Cheap Trick', catchy as hell harmonies all intertwined with a beat that skips along like a cheerleader goin' to the prom laced with lyrics to match. If your gonna listen to this CD there's a couple of things that you will need in your corner, an ill fitting leather jacket, a skinny fit T and the keys to an 85' corvette, think the Osmonds clad in black leather wielding guitars, amps and hairspray, you could easily take Candy home without hesitation to meet your parents or maybe go up to inspiration point and explore that plush Corvette upholstery and taste how sweet this Candy is, you get a fantastic mix of innocence and tongue in cheek US pop/rock! Overall 'Teenage Neon Jungle' is a CD that is uplifting, very easy listening and rammed full of hooks that are simply to die for, this is the good times that we're, when Hollywood was the epitamy of kool, girls were angels in disguise. With their debut album being titled 'Whatever Happened to Fun' Candy now give you a chance to answer, fun IS most definitely 'Teenage Neon Jungle' light hearted, catchy and sweet as Candy!!!!
THE JET CITY FIX *Play to kill*
Hailing from Seattle, The Jet City Fix gives us a full-lenght cd who will please all the fans of high-energy rnr. The cover could make you think of The Hellacopters or alike bands and in a few tunes the sound is not miles away from those outfits, but when JCF add a dose of powerpop and a touch of glam the result is candy for your ears, I'm talkin' about track #2 'Dumb Luck': a monsterous rocker who comes across like American Hi-Fi on heat! 'Drowning' is another pop-rock tune with a lot of potential and "Jet City's Rockin'" seems to be the band's anthem. A special mention goes to the Wildhearts cover 'Sick of Drugs': really impressive effort.
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THE BULLS EYE DIRT *Legends + Stockholm Rock Cityl*
I guess there's never been a r&r offering from Sweden bigger than the one we're having nowadays, and that's a good thing! Like most Swedish bands of the new millenium, Bulls Eye Dirt borrow from The Hellacopters (and the'Copters borrowed from the 70's..) but what really matters is that this four-piece has written some really ear-catching kick-ass tunes. If you're already familiar with other Swedes outfits like The Bones or Plan 9 you'll enjoy songs like 'Legends','Hang on' and 'Do you know?',