On the outside, it seemed like a strange decision to leave the Scorpions just as they had signed a new contract with Phonogram – they were on the up. But Uli had been unhappy with his position in the band for a long time, and decided the time was right. Uli is a huge Hendrix fan and you can hear it in his playing – he was even seeing Jimi’s old girlfriend for a while, Monica Danneman. I for one, find that a bit strange, but what do I know.
There is no denying Uli’s brilliance as a guitar player, but his vocal style is not for everyone as it feels as though he is straining all the time. Cast Away Your Chains is a nice opening track with some killer playing. Indian Dawn, musically, is freaking awesome especially in the breakdown section and has a very 70’s vibe. I’ll Be Loving You Always is a ballad with some great playing, but this is the one track where you realize that a better voice would have been heaps better. The title track follows and is great Euro metal sounding piece where Uli really stretches out on the guitar. A short instrumental piece, Prelude In Space Minor, closes out Side 1 and is very Hendrix in its execution.
Side 2 opens up with Just Another Rainbow and is very Band Of Gypsies – especially with the intro. Children Of The Sea is up next and is pleasant and laid back tune, but the vocals do detract somewhat. Chaplin An I is another very similar track before we get to the album closer and the big showpiece Enola Gay (Hiroshima Today). This is where Uli shows us what a killer guitar player he is and unloads every weapon in his arsenal. This is why every guitar player cites him as an influence. All the effects and toys are on display in the the full on Hendrix tribute in part three, the Attack Of Enola is outstanding.
So you may wonder why I bought this album, with me not being to keen on the vocals? Well its all about the guitar. I’m a huge guitar fan, and there is enough guitar awesomeness on display here to keep me more than happy.
8/10 from The Grooveman.
