Lillian Axe released a string of fine albums from the late 80’s into the 90’s before going on hiatus. They progressed from the glam metal of the 80’s into more serious and darkly lyrical band in the 90’s, although they always kept the melodies to the forefront of their music.

This album only has Stevie Blaze remaining from the original line-up with vocalist Ron Taylor replaced by Derrick LeFevre. But fear not Lillian Axe fans as Le Ferve’s vocals are very similar to Ron Taylor’s and of course Stevie Blaze is still adding his backing vocals, so when you listen to say the opening title track it sounds juts like classic Lillian Axe from their 90’s era.

‘Become A Monster’ and ‘Antarctica’ rock out big time with hook filled choruses and very heavy guitar/drums.

Lillian Axe have always been very good at penning dark, acoustic based tunes and ‘I Have To Die, Goodbye’ continues this fine tradition- quite possibly the album highlight. They have also re-recorded ‘Fields Of Yesterday’, although bar the vocals it doesn’t differ much form the original version.

It is great to have them back and with such a fine album, that will delight fans of their 90’s output. Vocalist Derrick LeFevre fits in well adding his own style but not too different from Ron Taylor so as to alienate longstanding fans.

****

Review by Jason Ritchie