by Matt Karpe
– Senior Columnist —
As Mötley Crüe are slowly bidding farewell to the rock world, Nikki Sixx has returned with his third studio album with Sixx:A.M.
Over three years since This Is Gonna Hurt, this is the first Sixx:A.M. record which doesn’t accompany a book written by the notorious bassist. Here simply is a rock album that stands on its own feet with no assistance needed.
Modern Vintage is an apt title, because as well as some traditional hard rock, there are tracks containing elements of the past, with some 70s’ and 80s’ influences that make the record power over its contemporaries.
DJ Ashba of more recent Guns N’ Roses fame and the multi-talented James Michael complete a three-piece of musical legends, and what you hear on Modern Vintage is a tight band putting all their eggs in one basket with brilliant results.
“Stars” is a huge anthem with a great chorus that is made for radio, “Relief” is in the same mold and showcases Ashba’s guitar skills which are rounded off with a sumptuous solo that is one of many to feature over the near 45 minutes of pure rock pleasure.
“Let’s Go” is reminiscent of Sixx:A.M.’s debut record The Heroin Diaries with is darker musical tones, and it could have easily featured in that track listing back in 2007. “Give Me a Love” is a funky G N’R-style rocker that is sleazy and raucous.
“Hyperventilate” has a 80s’ glam rock feel, with the Queen-esque verses that are dominated by a breathless chorus full of heavy bass and excellent guitar rhythms.
“High On the Music” has a slight hip-hop feel, such is the deliberate drumbeat and urban feel but its still catchy as hell. “Miracle” is a flashback to the 70s’ disco scene and it’s a song that could fill any dance floor the world over.
First single “Gotta Get It Right” is a great example of the newer direction that Sixx:A.M. have taken. It’s a pop-rock sure fire hit and with the excellent vocal display from Michael, the track just gets better with every listen.
The Cars’ classic “Drive” gets the cover treatment, modernized with the use of some effective synth and heart-pounding bass from Mr. Sixx.
“Before It’s Over” ends the record on a surprising note, as a folk/country tinged track raises many eyebrows and in fairness, may be the one weak point on the whole album.
With that track aside, Modern Vintage is a virtually flawless album that shows Sixx:A.M. are only just getting started.
DJ Ashba is sensational throughout with his silky guitar skills and brilliantly placed solo’s, Nikki Sixx is Nikki Sixx; one of the best bassists in rock history and James Michael is reveling in being a captivating frontman. A special mention also has to go to Jeff Fabb (Black Label Society, In This Moment) who was brought in to play the drums, and his performance is sublime.
Millions of fans will still be coming to terms with the soon-to-be closure of the Mötley Crüe circus, but if Modern Vintage is anything to go by, Nikki Sixx won’t be going anywhere and neither will Sixx:A.M. because, this right here, is the best album of 2014.
Genre: Hard Rock, Alternative Rock
Band:
Nikki Sixx- Bass
DJ Ashba- Lead Guitar
James Michael- Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Jeff Fabb- Drums (Brought In for this record)
Track Listing:
1. Stars
2. Gotta Get It Right
3. Relief
4. Get Ya Some
5. Let’s Go
6. Drive
7. Give Me a Love
8. Hyperventilate
9. High On the Music
10. Miracle
11. Before It’s Over
Label: Seven Eleven Music
Website: www.sixxammusic.com
Hardrock Haven Rating: 9.5/10
