THE GROOVEMAN'S COLLECTION

REVIEWS FROM MY VINYL COLLECTION

Tag: review (Page 20 of 482)

BLACKFOOT – Siogo

February 2, 2025 /

Blackfoot had a classic period with a trio of great albums from 79 -81 with Strikes, Tomcattin, and Marauder. Then it all went a bit weird and limp starting with this one.

The first thing you notice on the album is the keyboards, with the introduction of the mighty Ken Hensley. Now, I’m a big Uriah Heep fan and I loved Ken’s big Hammond sound but using that here with Blackfoot’s hard rockin’ southern groove just doesn’t work for me. Not only that, but the songs just aren’t that strong either.

I’m struggling for a favourite song as it’s all a bit meh and mediocre, but We’re Goin Done does kinda live up to the band’s hard rockin’ reputation.

6.5/10 from The Grooveman.

PROTEST THE HERO – Pacific Myth

February 2, 2025 /

Although this is technically an EP, there are still six meaty morsels of technicality for the listener to try and wrap their brains around. This is a reissue through Sheet Happens but the original release for these songs was done through Bandcamp as a kind of subscription where you got a track a month with artwork and all the gubbins. An interesting way to put out new product for sure.

Now, PTH are known for killer artwork and this album is no exception. BUT there is minimal information on the cover. The tracks are listed, but not in order, and the record labels just say A and B.

I’m a huge fan of modern prog metal and you have to admire PTH’s cottage industry approach of being totally in control of themselves. The band have actually been around over 20 years. Their first EP came out in 2002 and they have consistently put out killer releases, and this EP is no exception.

My favourite tune is track the first track on Side B. A very busy tune with that main guitar riff and groove just firing off in all directions. I’m sure Periphery and all those bands took hints from these guys because PTH were ahead of the curve that’s for sure.

8.5/10 from The Grooveman.

PRINS SVART – Till Vart Forsvar

January 29, 2025 /

I don’t have many albums that are written and sung in Swedish. I have several Opeth albums, a song by Freak Kitchen, and then this beauty. True, I haven’t got a clue what Mats is singing about (google translate helps) but the melody can be appreciated in whatever language it is sung in.

Musically, it’s a heavy modern classic rock vibe, with a hint of metal, and just a twist of retro. It feels rather familiar and yet new at the same time. You are further confused with the old Viking folk intro to opener Resenarer, but when the riff and groove kick in it all sounds epic.

The heavy groove on Hemlighet (Secrets) is just superb and that heavy psych ending is killer. Love the guitar tone and groove to Parasit, this song is freakin’ awesome. I would say this is my favourite song but Vintertronen just sneaks it because that groove and riff are epic, and the solo is just beautiful.

Looks as though I will have to delve back into their catalogue.

8.5/10 from The Grooveman.

FRANK MARINO – Full Circle

January 29, 2025 /

This is the first album Frank released after his CBS contract came to an end, and four years after the success of the Juggernaut record. Basically, it was still the same band but now he was in more control of his own destiny. I think the title reflects that because he was returning to the vibe and feel before CBS came into his life.

Frank came into my life because I was blown away by his playing after I heard the Mahogany Rush live record. This album is not as full on as that, but it does have its moments. Opener Breakin’ Away is prime time Frank with some killer playing and a great groove. Razors Edge and Hang On have a slower groove and vibe but the notes just fly from that fretboard. The title track is an overblown keyboard-led sprawling almost Prog track that is something Yes would conjour up. Genesis is my favourite track because it melds the old psych Frank with the guitar god that I love, and it’s very 70’s.

Frank has retired from playing due to an illness, but what a player.

7.5/10 from The Grooveman.

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