I’m not sure how many other rock bands came out of Regina, Saskatchewan but I’m pretty sure Kick Axe have to be the best. After the relative success of their debut album Vice, the follow-up Welcome To The Club was a bit of a let down, so Rock The World was a bit of a do or die album. Of course we all know now that they disappeared after this, but would resurface agin in 2004.
The album gets off to a blistering start with the full on beast that is Rock The World. It’s definitely one of their best tunes. Killer tune. Next up is a cover of one of the most iconic tracks in rock and that is The Chain by Fleetwood Mac. They actually do a really good job and I like the slightly faster groove, and the solo is killer. Red Line is a straight up four to the floor rocker that hits the spot. Devachan follows and is my favourite on the album. Think of a more melodic version of Manowar crossed with Dio, and you may be somewhere near. I have to say, Larry Gillstrom on guitar just rips. Great player! Side 1 closes out with Warrior, a heavy boogie with a great groove and the vocals and harmonies are awesome.
We Still Remember kicks off Side 2 with a groove similar to The Strokes, and the middle section is superb. A ripping intro to Great Escape, pounding double kicks and wailing guitars. Just what we like! A change of pace with Medusa, a quirky tune that has some amazing vocal harmonies and great guitar. Back to the pound with The Dark Crusade a no nonsense rocker, and again the harmonies are killer. Then, into the final tune with Magic Man. I guess it’s as close to a ballad as this band get. George Criston’s vocals are amazing on this one.
I’m not to sure why this band weren’t bigger, maybe they were just too different. Who knows? Great album.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
