Tag: eric steel

Just as there was a rush to sign metal bands when NWOBHM started to break, there was also the same rush in the US where labels were signing bands without doing their homework because metal was the in thing. Admittedly, this is a little rough around the edges compared to their excellent second album, Infectious, but it still has its moments.

This feels very late 70’s instead of ’84 when it was recorded and it sounds like a raw version of Kiss mixed with The Boyz. The production isn’t great and the drums sound awful, but there are a couple of tracks that shine. Hypnotized with its punk riffing and groove is a cool track that steals a little from the MC5. My fave track is the proto metal vibe of High Roller. Kick ass heavy rock n’ roll and Bruce Hausfeld does have a great voice that reminds a bit of Dave Meniketti.

If your looking for an Eric Steel album then I would definitely go for Infectious over this.

6/10 from The Grooveman.

A band called Eric Steel and yet no one in the band has that name. Actually, these guys are quite good at playing some kick ass hard rock with that metal edge. The band are from Chicago and released three albums, of which this is album number two.

Now, I’m a sucker for a loud and crunchy dirty riff, and these guys have them in overload. The production is raw and loud and it captures the band perfectly. I love this record, it’s nice and simple. No hairs and graces just BAM, CRUNCH, and they’re gone. Bruce Hausfield seems to be the one calling all the shots as he’s lead vocalist and guitarist, and the dude sure can lay down the riffs. Forever Yours, After Midnight, and my favourite, Since You’ve Been Gone are great tunes. They all have the simple format of a huge fat riff and killer groove that you just can’t help rockin’ out to.

This is FUN, pure and simple.

8/10 from The Grooveman.