Category 5 Off The Ivory Coast

by Jacqueline Gonzales
Staff Writer

Category 5 describes itself as Arena Rock, and you would have to agree. Throughout Off The Ivory Coast, it’s as if you had been transported back to the ’80s. The strong guitar riffs and quick tip of the high hat make you begin to think that big hair might yet make a comeback.

Perry Zeremba’s voice reminds listeners of former Journey frontman Steve Perry. The tenor leads the band well, bringing the audience into the music and absorbing them without overwhelming instruments. Throughout the album, Zeremba pulls you into the song, leaving you almost begging for more. Not to be outdone, Joe Czentnar shows his extraordinary talent on the guitar. Every track showcases the guitar, but the power truly shines through on “Daze Warning.”

“Party If You Want To” will have the listener dancing and singing along. It’s a catchy song that will have you singing it even after having turned off the CD. Kevin Davis’s sound effects and keyboards are sprinkled liberally throughout Off The Ivory Coast, but come out the most in this song. The odd sound effects, which worked despite not being a typical instrument, can leave you smiling.

The lyrics seemed a bit trite, especially in “Home Again,” which seem as a classic turn of phrase without much behind it. You can tell the music was labored over, but the lyrics almost feel thrown in simply because you need something to sing. The vocals are enjoyable, but listeners easily can tune out the lyrics to enjoy the instrumentals.

Overall, Off The Ivory Coast has a strong feel and power that will take listeners back throughout the years. Classic Rock fans will leave this album with one main wish: more songs from Category 5.

Genre: Classic Rock

Band:
Perry Zaremba (v)
Kenny Morss (d) (v)
George Koch (b) (v)
Joe Czentnar (g) (v)
Kevin Davis (k) (g) (se) (v)

Track Listing:
1. Lost in Legacy
2. Home Again
3. I Wonder
4. Party If You Want To
5. Daze Warning

Website: http://www.cat5rocks.com/

Hardrock Haven rating: 7/10