On paper this is a bit of a weird combination, one of Iron Maiden’s guitarists and Richie Kotzen together in a project would seem a bit of a clash of styles. But Adrian’s two projects when he departed Maiden (ASAP and Psycho Motel) were more of a melodic nature so maybe not to far apart. I am a huge fan of Kotzen, both of his guitar playing and his amazing soulful voice. Besides the two main men we have Nicko McBrain contributing drums to one track, and Tal Bergman drums to four tracks. Kotzen plays drums on the rest of the tracks, and bass duties are shared between them both.
First track in is Taking My Chances and I would say this is a Richie track – this is something that’s not out of place on one of his solo albums. Running on the other hand definitely sounds like a collaboration as both vocal and guitar duties are shared. Scars is superb with a great slow funky blues where both are playing off of each other – the solos are killer. Some People is a slow groove tune that Kotzen can sing in his sleep, and it’s cool to hear Adrian sing in that style. The very southern vibe of Glory Road closes out Side 1, with Adrian taking the lead off vocal.
Solar Fire starts with a Cream style groove with a great funky swing. You Don’t Know Me is an ok song that is lifted by the solos. Back to the southern vibes with the intro to I Wanna Stay, and Adrian’s vocals here very soulful. Till Tomorrow closes out the album in fine style with a very soulful groove and some killer playing. I hope they keep this going as it’s a really great record.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
