THE GROOVEMAN'S COLLECTION

REVIEWS FROM MY VINYL COLLECTION

Day: October 31, 2022

BRUCE DICKINSON – Tattooed Millionaire

October 31, 2022 /

This is Bruce’s first solo album, which he recorded whilst he was still a member of Iron Maiden (he left leave in ’93). I think the idea was to record a rock album in the classic sense, avoiding areas that he was familiar with. I think this is my favourite of his solo releases as he was just being himself. Ironically, future Maiden guitarist Jannick Gers, was recruited on guitar.

It’s all quite one paced groove-wise with Bruce’s humour present throughout the record. Check out the intro to Dive Dive Dive with his mention of Seaman Stains. Tattooed Millionaire was a hit single and I would say it’s the most commercial sounding track on the album. A lot of his vocals have a more gravelly tone to them I guess to separate more from Maiden. There is a decent cover of Mott The Hoople’s All The Young Dudes, but it’s the close out track No Lies which is my favourite on the album. I really like the up-tempo groove and the melody and hook are great.

8.5/10 from The Grooveman.

ZZ TOP – Fandango

October 31, 2022 /

I love the concept of half live and half studio albums, and I’m surprised more bands don’t do this. My favourite ZZ period is the mid-to-late seventies, when they were a smoking live act and were experimenting with sounds and grooves which eventually led them to Eliminator.

Side one of this album was recorded one hot sweaty night in New Orleans – I think in ’75.  A mixture of originals and blues/rock n roll covers, it’s as raw and as groovin’ you’d expect ZZ to be. But it’s Side 2 that really draws your attention with all killer originals, that today, the band play a lot of live.

Nasty Dogs And Funky Kings has a killer riff and groove, and a bass line to die for. Blue Jean Blues is a real slow blues with a crystal clear production, and you gotta love Billy G’s tone. Balinese is one of those Tex Mex delights that only ZZ do – a great groove and vibe! Mexican Blackbird is the odd track on the album, mainly because of Billy’s vocal, and there is some cool slide playing. The last two tracks are stone cold classics. Heard It On The X has a killer simple riff and groove and busy beat- superb stuff! The album closes out with Tush – a great heavy boogie that I’m sure you’ve all heard of. A lot of other bands borrowed it as well. Check out Motörhead’s No Class. I love this album, as I do most mid-period ZZ Top.

9/10 from The Grooveman.

Archives

© 2025 THE GROOVEMAN'S COLLECTION

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑