Blackie Lawless returns again under the WASP moniker, and this time he’s gone political; the album title a criticism of Washington DC. Not of the American people, Lawless is keen to point out, but of the government decisions. And you have to admit the US government are a very easy target.

The album opens with 'Mercy', a fine melody of medium polished Wasp and a riff that so classic Wasp, but there’s something about the sound and the polish on the vocals that make it a little different.

Same goes for 'Long, Long Way To Go', great Lawless voice, some great guitar solos, but it’s just not classic Wasp. And before you deride them, Wasp do have some classic moments, There are a few tracks from The Headless Children I absolutely adore.

The ballad into to 'Take Me Up' doesn’t work, but does build up to a damn fine metal track. Good Wasp solid strong rhythm.

'The Burning Man' is another excellent track with a nod at late 80s Iron Maiden in Lawless’s own rough style.

Somehow I thoroughly enjoyed this album; it’s a real mixture with highs and lows, but the highs are just not classic Wasp. Too much of a mixture, but when it comes together it REALLY comes together.

Just like the A Team, I love it when a plan comes together.

****

Review by Joe Geesin

Mercy
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