U.D.O. Dominator

by Jay Villain
Staff Writer

For those that don’t already know, as lead vocalist for Accept in the early ‘80s, Udo Dirkschneider set the high standard of heavy metal that others have to follow. Udo Dirkschneider continues to maintain that high standard today. The latest release by U.D.O. called Dominator is a prime example of that. His vocal quality is like he’s never aged. Still using his signature sound, Udo’s voice sounds as good today as it did when he first started.

Dominator’s full production adds to the skillful performances found within. There are harmony guitar solos and melodic hooks by guitar players Stefan Kaufmann and Igor Gianola. Fitty Wienhold and Francesco Jovino hold down the rhythm section, and together give Udo Dirkschneider a strong metal foundation. The first song on Dominator called “The Bogeyman” is a rhythmic song with a chorus so catchy that you’re likely to be singing it to yourself later. Next is the title track on Dominator. This is a quick up-tempo song that both the song and the guitar solo strongly reflect the title. In fact, there’s no shortage of great guitar solos throughout Dominator.

Thousands of metal fans will be chanting “Black And White” quite loudly during this anthem-type song. The pace picks up with “Infected.” With a thunderous and punchy double bass chorus, “Infected” is very energetic. Pounding forward is the stomping “Heavy Metal Heaven.” An attractive tribal drum beat along with a very memorable sing-along chorus is going to make this another favorite during live performances. While the bass rumbles away during a flanged guitar bridge, “Doom Ride” sustains the metal continuity along with a flashy yet melodic guitar solo.

“Stillness Of Time” is a bit different. A piano and keyboard start this song, and it maintains keys throughout along with a melodic guitar solo that wraps up using a tapping technique. Part of what makes this power ballad a unique addition to Dominator is the imaginative and classy use of the acoustic guitar during the midsection. Combining rock and roll with metal is the fun and upbeat “Devil’s Rendezvous” complete with a ‘50s-style finger snap during the bridge.

The tempo increases when “Speed Demon” takes off running with unstoppable force. This song is Dominator at top speed. Wrapping up Dominator is “Whispers In The Dark,” a power ballad that’s more ballad than power. This one also contains piano, keys and some acoustic guitar. If this were a movie, “Whispers In The Dark” would be the song playing as the credits role. It’s a melodic song that’s quite a contrast, especially following such a dominant song like “Speed Demon.” Dominator is a very strong release from U.D.O., and it delivers a full dose of metal and a bit more.

Label: AFM Records

www.udo-online.de
www.myspace.com/udoonline

Lineup:
Udo Dirkschneider – vocals
Stefan Kaufmann – guitars
Igor Gianola – guitars
Fitty Wienhold – bass
Francesco Jovino – drums

Track Listing:
01. The Bogeyman
02. Dominator
03. Black And White
04. Infected
05. Heavy Metal Heaven
06. Doom Ride
07 Stillness Of Time
08. Devil´s Rendezvous
09. Speed Demon
10. Whispers In The Dark

Hardrock Haven rating: 9/10