
When all melodic rock bands went into hibernation during the lean years of the 90’s, Mr. Big managed to keep it going, mainly due to the big love from Japan. It’s crazy to think that they have just called it quits with the release of their final album 10, and the subsequent farewell tour and live album.
This is the band’s third album, released back in ´93, and if I’m pushed, I would say this is my favourite. Very strong songs coupled with some killer playing makes this a must have album. When you kick off a record with a song as good as Colorado Bullfrog, you know it’s gonna be a good record. Ripping it up big time with a super fast groove and Paul Gilbert is giving it all the beans.
The cover of Free is classic Mr. Big and the inspiration for the band’s name, it is a great choice for a cover and they indeed do it justice. The cover of Wild World was released as a single and it is ok, but it doesn’t do a bunch for me. Yup, there are a couple of covers which I can forgive them for because they do them really well, but it’s the harder edged tracks that that they really shine at.
The Whole World Is Gonna Know is such a great song and Eric’s voice is just so good on this one. Other than the already mentioned Colorado Bullfrog, the track that really scratches that itch is the funky grooves of Temperamental.
Great record played by stellar musicians and a worthy addition to anyone’s collection.
9/10 from The Grooveman.