Molotow Records
2007
At it's best hard rock in the 1980's could have a fun feel, memorable hooks and catchy melodies. At it's worst it could too often be repetitive, cheesy and generic. Norway's Molotow have released a debut that fortunately hits more in that first category. Unfortunately it touches some in the second category as well and I think that's largely due to the fact that they are trying so hard fit into this style and that includes a few of the cliches of the style as well. What struck me first was that for a debut album from a young band this a very professional sounding production. It has very strong production values and it's slick, but not overdone either. It's melodic hard rock with glam undertones if a specific label has to be slapped on it. The vocals are clear and and work nicely without being too sappy. The music is primarily strong with a good flow, fairly solid hooks and a strong sense that can be in control when they try. However there are a few songs that seem to suffer from being too basic and not really enough risks musically. With titles like "Surrender to rock& roll", "Beam me up (for glam and glory)" and "80's" it's obvious they have decided to settle on very basic and perhaps all too cliched song topics. That was a little tough to take, but for the most part the music and vocals are so good that sweep the weak lyrics away and you are left with the impression that this is an admirable debut. For the most part this goes over rather smoothly and it's a fairly enjoyable ride. However it's largely a ride back to a past style and that can be a nice start, but I hope they continue to push and develop more of their own style as well.
http://www.myspace.com/molotowrock
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