Sixx A.M. : This is Gonna Hurt

by Deb Rao
Staff Writer

The sophomore release This Is Gonna Hurt by SIXX A.M. slated to be released May 3rd via Eleven Seven Music picks up where Heroin Diaries left off. Hauntingly melodic guitar riffs inspired with the soaring vocals of James Michael, This Is Gonna Hurt is a musical journey soundtrack filled with emotion that tears at your heartstrings. From the very industrial opening track “This Is Gonna Hurt” to the ballad “Smile”, SIXX A.M. capture the elements of every chapter on NIKKI SIXX’s latest book release This Is Gonna Hurt: Music, Photography And Life Through The Distorted Lens Of Nikki Sixx.

One of the greatest aspects on This Is Gonna Hurt is that every track stands on its own and a story in itself. Highlight of the release is the first single, “Lies Of The Beautiful People.” As James Michael sings, “Well if you think real beauty’s on the outside well that is a far cry from the truth,” personifies the Hollywood glamour with an ’80’s ambiance. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder correct?”

The music on soundtrack This Is Gonna Hurt and photography on Nikki’s book showcases the different walks of life including the homeless, amputees, and makes you look at life through a different lens and not a rose-tinted one in fact. The point that Nikki Sixx tries to get across in the book is that it is OK to be happy with yourself. It is OK to be different, beauty is only skin deep and the lyrics strongly emphasis this throughout the entire release.

SIXX A.M. envision a band that displays prominent musicians that take the music to the next level that captures your attention and makes you think and feel in a very refreshing way. SIXX A.M. has a very unique sound that is at times is industrial, jazzy and rock and roll with lyrics that are carefully cultivated.

The song “Sure Feels Right” reminds me a lot of Lou Reed. While the song “Deadlihood” has that dark Marilyn Manson appeal. SIXX A.M. shows their softer side with the tender ballad “Smile.” The song “Goodbye My Dear Friends” picks up where “Accidents Can Happen” leaves off. “Skin” is kind of dark and macabre. This song reflects the photos and people in Nikki Sixx’s book. Life revolves around many different cycles and people. “Skin” illustrates them all.

Back in the day no one lived life larger than Motley Crue. Nikki Sixx’s other band SIXX A.M.takes you into the now also featuring famed producer James Michael and Guns N’Roses guitarist DJ Ashba with a collection of songs that are about real life and emotions. This Is Gonna Hurt is a truly compelling release that would make a fantastic Broadway production.

Genre: Hard Rock

Band:
Nikki Sixx – bass
James Michael – vocals
DJ Ashba – Guitar

Track Listing:
l. This Is Gonna Hurt
2. Lies Of The Beautiful People
3. Mare You With Me Now
4. Live Forever
5. Sure Feels Right
6. Deadlihood
7. Smile
8. Help Is On The Way
9. Oh My God
10. Goodbye My Dear Friends
11. Skin

Label: Eleven Seven Music

www.myspace.com/sixxam

www.sixxammusic.com

Hardrock Haven Rating: 9/10