Here is Statetrooper’s second album - a mere 17 years after their debut!
Of the 1987 line-up vocalist Gary Barden (ex-MSG), guitarist Jeff Summers
and drummer Bruce Bisland (now also in the Sweet) remain, being joined by
guitarist Martin Mikkels and original bassist Jeff Brown as special guest.
Michael Voss (Silver/Demon Drive) produces the whole album and the sound on
some tracks is very reminiscent of the excellent Silver albums, which is
hardly surprising as Gary Barden sings on those as well.
The title track gets things underway in fine style being a riff heavy
and a harmony filled chorus. This would make a good single, along with
‘Marionettes’ which is another fine radio friendly rocker (with whistling!).
‘Casablanca’ could have come off a Silver album and highlights Barden’s
melodic vocal range. ‘How Does It Feel’ enters power ballad territory but
retains some clout via the guitar. Only ‘Twilight’s Last Gleaming’ seems
pedestrian when compared with the other songs on here. Summers and Mikkels
add some cracking riffs throughout plus tightly played solos that keep
within the song, rather than detract from it.
A superb comeback and a ‘must have’ for any self-respecting hard rock
fan. Just like UFO, Statetrooper prove that classic hard rock never goes out
of fashion and can still sound fresh. What with the debut re-released on
Escape Music it’s a good time for Gary Barden and Statetrooper fans. Just
hope they don’t leave it 17 years for album number three!
***** Out of this world | **** Pretty
damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly
