Best known for his work with KISS between 1984 and 1996, guitarist Bruce Kulick has enjoyed a career lasting more than 30 years. Currently a member of Grand Funk Railroad, 'BK3' is Kulick's first solo release in over 5 years.

Featuring a host of special guests- including former band mates Gene Simmons, Eric Singer and John Corabi, plus Doug Fieger (The Knack) and Steve Lukather (Toto) amongst others - the album may surprise listeners with some of the material, such as the frantic and angry opening track 'Fate'. Kulick's guitar work throughout the album is solid and consistent with some outstanding solo's, whilst his vocals are strong and confident and well suited to the songs. Strangely, there are moments on 'BK3' that are reminiscent of Ace Frehley's post-KISS material.

Of the 11 tracks on 'BK3', 'Friend of Mine' (featuring John Corabi) and 'Dirty Girl' (featuring Doug Fieger) are the most commercial sounding. 'Ain't Gonna Die' sounds like latter day KISS- not surprising as the track features Gene Simmons, whose son Nick appears on the low and dirty sounding 'Hand Of The King' (check out the shredding guitar solo on this one!!). There are also 2 instrumental tracks- 'Between The Lines' is a blues infused number featuring Toto's Steve Lukather, whilst bonus track 'Skydome' is a more old school guitar instrumental.

There are a couple of mellower tracks on the album, the organic sounding 'I'll Survive' and the slightly more upbeat 'Final Mile'. Also worth checking out are 'I'm The Animal' (featuring Eric Singer and Tobias Sammet) and 'And I Know'- a song with a touch of the late ‘80's KISS sound, both of which contain some more superb guitar playing.

'BK3' is an enjoyable album that should be enjoyed loud. Bruce Kulick has said that he is proud of this record and so he should be.

****

Review by Nikk Gunns