Graham Bonnet has been lucky enough to play with some of the hottest guitar players around: Ritchie Blackmore, Yngwie Malmsteen, Michael Schenker and on this album, Steve Vai. This is the second album by the band and possibly their strongest in regards to the more commercial nature of the songs. God Blessed Video did really well in the US and I think it was the only single released from the record. Vai’s playing and style suits the band better than Malmsteen did and he adds that melodic edge. Of course Vai was a bit of an unknown at this point and he was also out to make a name for himself.
I think this is the best album that Bonnet has recorded as his voice is just amazing on these tunes, not just the ones that show off his power and range, but also in the quieter moments like in the opening to Will You Be Home Tonight where it doesn’t even sound like him. Vai, of course, is just incendiary on every track and he gets his own showcase with the instrumental, Lighter Shade Of Green.
There are straight up rockers like Stripper and Wire And Wood which I really like, then there are the big production numbers like Desert Diamond where the vocals and harmonies are exceptional. My favourite is a quirky little song called Painted Lover, which has a cool Vai riff and a cool funky choppy groove. I really like this record and if it’s the only Alcatrazz album you own, then it should be this one.
9.5/10 from The Grooveman.
