There’s big line up changes from the first record here with the addition of a second guitarist in Bruce Bouillet ,and Scott Travis on drums. To say the guitar playing is incredible on this record would be an understatement. It’s everywhere and fills every spare space, and this time there is the addition of two part harmonies. It’s the addition of Travis for me that makes the biggest difference. His double kick playing is outstanding.
It all comes together on Scarified, with that lead off drum groove, and the killer playing from everyone. This has to be one of the best virtuoso instrumental pieces put to wax – all band members are shredding. Incredible track! Hammer Away is one of the finest melodic metal tracks you will hear. As well as the incredible playing, the melody and the hook were important in this track. There are two covers on the album, a great rendition of Bowie’s Moonage Daydream, and a Judas Priest song that never was in Heart Of A Lion, which was given to the band by Rob Halford (it was supposed to be on the Turbo album but never made it).
It’s astounding that the band could not get any major label backing at the time. They would only record a live album and then Paul Gilbert was approached to join Mr. Big – and that was it. They would reform to play a few shows and record a couple of more albums, but it would just be for fun and was now a side project for all concerned. Love this record and everything they have done.
9.5/10 from The Grooveman.
