by Justin Gaines
– Senior Columnist/News Editor —
Lest we think that British rock is all Coldplay and Radiohead, here comes York-based Scream Arena to remind us that British rock n’ roll used to be fun. The band hooked up with melodic rock veteran Paul Sabu (Only Child) to bring their self-tited debut to life, and the result is an album that’s sure to win over melodic rock fans.
For a band this obviously influenced by the classic Hollywood “hair metal” scene, the easiest thing in the world would have been to simply mimic Motley Crue or Ratt. Instead, Scream Arena’s approach pays tribute to those ’80s bands while also making a nod to the ’70s British rock scene and even more importantly maintaining a modern energy. The Scream Arena debut has great driving rhythms, super-catchy hooks, an odd yet effective smooth/raspy vocal style and plenty of spirit. Think Shotgun Messiah, Zodiac Mindwarp and The Almighty, with just a taste of T-Rex and The Sweet. There aren’t a lot of bands who could take on the Elvis Presley staple “Heartbreak Hotel” without sounding completely ridiculous, but Scream Arena puts a snarling new spin on the song that’s in keeping with the rest of this infectious album. “Goodnight L.A.” and “Born Ready” are also highlights, as is the very catchy, almost ’80s new wave sounding “Another Night in London Town.”
Given all the high profile melodic rock releases coming from Frontiers, AFM and the like this year, an album like the Scream Arena debut could get lost in the shuffle. It’s proof that there’s more to great melodic rock than just the “name” releases though, and is one that deserves to be heard. Whether you’re a child of the ’80s looking for that classic rock sound or a follower of the new breed of melodic rock bands like Hardcore Superstar, Crazy Lixx and The Ragged Saints, Scream Arena is a band that you’ll want to check out.
Genre: Hard Rock, Melodic Rock
Band:
Andy Paul (v)
Alex Mullings (g) (v)
Phil O’Dea (g) (v)
Lincoln Roth (b)
Michael Maleckyj (d)
Track Listing:
Forever
Goodnight L.A.
Knave of Hearts
Queen of Dreams
Somewhere
Born Ready
The Price of Love
Racing to the End of Night
House of Pain
Heartbreak Hotel
Another Night in London Town
Heart of the Rock
Label: Mighty Music
Website: www.screamarena.com
Hardrock Haven rating: 7.5/10
