CD Reviews: Page 12
Artist: Fates Warning
Album: Disconnected
Label: Metal Blade
The Review: Well I guess there is no hating of melodic metal if you work for the fine folks of Metal Blade Records. From the company that recently brought us the new King's X CD (Hello Mr. Bulbous), comes another new release that is very much along the lines of King's X. Fates Warning is no stranger to the progressive rock scene and has always been a favorite of as CMJ puts it "guitar nerds" everywhere. To be honest, if a band has this style, I have to be 100% impressed for me to actually enjoy the CD. Sometimes within this genre of modified sound and melodic vocals, you can expect it to be a little overdone to the point of where the music sounds too original for anyone's taste. Luckily, this CD is not one that fall into that catagory. The band provides just enough innovative sound while keeping true to styles that even modern mainstream rock fans will grasp. Expect a decent mix of melodic vocals and guitar from these progressive rock legends with a fine selection of lengthy songs...nothing more...nothing less...
Recommended Radio Friendly Tracks: 3, 4, 6
Overall Grade: C+ MTPF 7/18/00
Artist: Rob Halford
Album: Resurrection
Label: Metal Is
The Review: What happens to the lead singer of a major 80s metal band after he starts up a rather unpopular side project? The answer is simple...dress up all tough looking and go out on your own into the world of rock. The funny part is...as much as I would like to poke some fun at this disc, I have to admit that it isn't all that bad. There is a great mix of 80s speed metal songs and styles that Rob Halford had when he was still in Judas Priest. So needless to say, if you are a die hard Halford fan, this CD may be for you. This disc would also serve as a flashback to fans of 80s thrash. Other than that, have fun snickering at the Middle Aged Bondage Spokesperson on the cover!
Recommended Radio Friendly Tracks: 2, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12
Overall Grade: C+ to B- MTPF 7/18/00
Artist: Boiler Room
Album: Can't Breathe
Label: Roadrunner
The Review: To say that I didn't enjoy this CD would be a lie but overall there is something that this band lacks. That thing I refer to is originality. The CD is a mix of rehashed dark grindy riffs and semi-loud vocals. Most we have heard already with prior bands like Tool and Korn. The "I hate you, You hate me, I hate myself for hating everyone..." lyrics pretty much carry that spirit as well. When it comes down to it, this CD isn't too bad like I said but after hearing about five CDs week just like this one, you begin to drive yourself batty after awhile. Thats all I can really say about it...check it out and judge for yourself!
Recommended Radio Friendly Tracks: Any but 7
Overall Grade: C+ MTPF 7/20/00
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