MUSIC DISCOVERY MONDAY – 8/7/17
Music Discovery Monday shines a light on artists that are not getting the radio attention that they deserve, while also showcasing new singles by established bands that are likely to get airplay in the future.
In addition to appearing on the embedded YouTube playlist below, all songs featured on Music Discovery Monday can be listened to individually by clicking on the hyper-linked song titles above each review.
ADAM WALDMAN – (Publisher/Editor, Hard Rock Daddy)
CHEAP TRICK – “Long Time Coming”
After a 40-year career, and a long overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cheap Trick has nothing left to prove. With such an illustrious history, it would be understandable if the band decided to enjoy the fruits of their labor. However, based on the lyrics of the band’s latest single, “Long Time Coming,” Robin Zander and company still have a passion for being on the road…
“I’m in the middle of something…and it sure feels good. It makes me feel better…do I look like I should? Get me on a tour bus…or put me on a plane. Take me to the city…before I go insane.”
Cheap Trick seems to be enjoying a renaissance of sorts, much to the delight of longtime fans. “Long Time Coming” is a reminder that this band is still a force to be reckoned with in modern times. Although they may never get the radio attention that they once did, that is more of an indictment of the state of radio than the quality of their music. The first single off of the band’s 18th studio album (We’re All Alright!), is a blending of the classic Cheap Trick sound with a modern feel. Rick Neilsen’s guitar playing is as good as ever, and his son (Daxx) adds a boost of adrenaline with his powerful drumming.
HEAVY TIGER – “I Go For The Cheap Ones”
It may look like I’ve created a “cheap” theme this week with this song following the featured artist, but that’s purely coincidence. However, the pairing makes sense because, like Cheap Trick, Heavy Tiger knows how to deliver upbeat, energetic rock and roll with infectious hooks.
In their bio, this female power trio cites KISS and Thin Lizzy as influences. While you can hear the influences of the aforementioned bands on “I Go For The Cheap Ones,” the artists that come to mind most are Pat Benatar and The Runaways.
Lead vocalist Maja Linn sounds like the second coming of Benatar. Considering the fact that Benatar was not only the first female rocker that made an impression on me, but one that has remained a personal favorite for over three decades, this is high praise. Linn has a way of perfectly blending sweet melodies with an edgy sound and just the right amount of swagger.
Listening to Heavy Tiger for the first time felt like a trip down memory lane. That being said, there’s something timeless about this brand of high energy rock and roll. With memorable riffs, a driving rhythm, and outstanding lead/backing vocals, this is band that makes you want to hit repeat over and over again. Their sound is tailor-made for the stage, and if they come anywhere near my area, I will make it a point to see the show. Keep this band on your radar!
ANDY CHEUNG – HRD Music Scout
DEAD CROSS – “Seizure And Desist”
Whenever there is a band with talented musicians such as Mike Patton (ex-Faith No More) and Dave Lombardo (ex-Slayer), you know that it will most likely be a winning combination. The new self-titled album by punk/hardcore group Dead Cross is chaotic, loud, fast and aggressive (just like any good hardcore punk/metal infusion band should be). Hearing Lombardo play as fast as he did in Slayer is a nice change of pace. Couple that with Patton’s (oftentimes) incoherent shrieks, and it makes for a good time. Don’t take this album too seriously. I’m guessing that the band doesn’t either.
BODY COUNT – “Raining Blood/Postmortem”
One of the better cover songs I’ve heard in a while is Body Count’s cover of the iconic “Raining in Blood/Postmortem” by the almighty Slayer. From their latest album, Bloodlust, the controversial metal band (headed by rapper Ice-T) flawlessly breezes through the Slayer tune effortlessly and cleanly. Even the lyrics and guitar solos were clean, and easily recognizable. The album touches on the typical Body Count subject matter of gang life, street violence and police brutality, so finding an awesome Slayer cover is a great change of pace. Kudo’s to Body Count for doing this great song justice.
ROB DELL’AQUILA – HRD Music Scout
AERACO – “Baptized By Fire”
This melodic rock band out of Chicago won Best Rock Entertainer of the Year at the Chicago Music Awards in 2015 with their debut album, All Or Nothing. They return strong here with the title track of their second album.
EXIT EDEN – “Impossible”
Exit Eden is an all-female metal supergroup featuring Amanda Somerville (Avantasia, Kiske-Somerville), Clementine Develay-Thieux (Visions Of Atlantis), Marina La Torraca (Avantasia, Phantom Elite), and Anna Brunner. Their debut album, Rhapsodies In Black, features metallized cover songs. This one is a driving (but melodic) take on a Shontelle hit.
SUBMISSIONS
To be considered for Music Discovery Monday, please e-mail a link to the song being submitted on YouTube and an artist bio to – submissions@MusicDiscoveryMonday.com
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