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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!!!
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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. |
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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 |
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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!!!
website
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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.
website
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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!
website
:: email
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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!
website
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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!"
website
:: email
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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...
website
:: email
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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!
website :: email
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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!
website
:: email
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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..."
website
:: email
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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 heres to em!
website
:: email |
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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.
website
:: email |
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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 dont 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 |
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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
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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 |
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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
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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 |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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| 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
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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::.
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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::. |
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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::. |
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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::. |
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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::.
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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::.
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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::. |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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 |
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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
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BITCH
ALERT *Rriotl*
So I settle in on a wet windy day to give Bitch Alert
its first spin, as I get comfortable I am SO HOPING that
Im not gonna have my ears filled with another Donnas/Eyeliners...
After wandering through the first couple of tracks I wasnt
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 Im 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
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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 |
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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!!!! |
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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.
e-mail....website
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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?', | |