Underride | Distorted Nation

by John Kindred
Staff Writer –

Melodic hard rockers Underride deliver their latest studio album Distorted Nation, an 11-track affair that revels in the ‘80s, while maintaining a modern edge. Hailing from Seattle, which is commonly known for Grunge, Underrides is far from that genre with its sonic delivery. The band comprises five blokes who hand down their take on rock with a revitalized guitar-driven attack, driving percussion and groove and vocals that are gritty, edgy and very listenable. With names that fall right out of the pages of a Japanese Magna novel, Rev, Suzuki Sixx, Princess, El Barto and Double A, are here to supplant those who lack the will or desire to survive the business of the music industry.

Distorted Nation is not Underride’s first rodeo – see 2008′s One of Us – their music features tight and cohesive songs that are built on hooks and catchy melodies. The album was produced by Rev, the vocalist, and executive producer John Elder. Their knowledge of the studio and song structure is apparent, as they deliver a balanced collection of songs that feel like they belong together and can stand on their own merit. The music is mixed expertly, allowing all the instruments to be heard while not stepping on each other and creating anarchy.

Hammering out an existence in the Seattle music scene has offered the band the opportunity to merge their influences into their vision of what rock means to them, creating music that is appealing and enjoyable to listen to. Steering away from the negative stereotypical constructs of many of today’s bands, their message is lighter and easier to digest.

With songs like “Paparazzi” and “Porn Star,” the band takes a poke at life in a fun way. “Do Anything To Me” drives forward with a catchy singable chorus and tongue-and-cheek lyrics. Bits of sleaze and cheese come across in “Candy Girl.” “Inside Out” has another memorable singalong chorus. Throughout the album, the band musically delivers, even playing guitar solos. It’s a nice change of pace from the more recent modern drivel that has been cast upon music fans over the last few years. Solid production, good songs and strong musicianship make Distorted Nation a winner.

Genre: Modern Melodic Hard Rock

Band:
Rev – vocals
Princess – guitar
Suzuki Sixx – guitar
El Barto – bass
Double A – drums

Track Listing:
1. Another Way Out
2. Paparazzi
3. Say Goodbye To Everything’s That’s Gone
4. Love Is Like Dying
5. Porn Star
6. Don’t Walk Away
7. Do Anything To Me
8. Inside Out
9. Blinded By You
10. Candy Girl
11. Road To Nowhere

Label: EPI-Records

Hardrock Haven rating: 7.5/10

The Morning After | Legacy

by Nikiforos Skoumas
Staff Writer –

British modern-melodic hard rock band The Morning After are back in 2012 with their brand new second album Legacy; and it is the UK’s answer to Blessed by a Broken Heart.

Having debuted in the summer of 2009 with You Can’t Hurt Steel, the young quartet brought to front their own mix of flamboyant, ultra melodic hard rock with obvious ties to the ‘80s also inducing sporadically some growl-y vocals. Through their debut, The Morning After put across their proficiency in writing and performing melodies; whether you target the guitars, the vocals, the keyboards-even the rhythm section- you will find substantial melodies and harmonies.

Musically, Legacy features the same songwriting approach established by their debut, only point of differentiation perhaps being that growls have been kept to a minimum on this second release. Thematically, however, Legacy stand somewhat apart from their debut; the melancholic lyrics and futuristic concepts are left behind in favor of a much more optimistic and direct lyrical approach. Partying, standing one’s ground and rising up to a challenge are what The Morning After address on Legacy.

Songwriting-wise, one has to give the guys credit for understanding that there is no place for bland moments on a first-class melodic rock song, so every riff, verse, chorus or musical passage of any kind is topped by spot-on instrumental or vocal melodies. Clearly, the way these people dress their composition leaves nothing to be desired, the entire album is guitar melody followed by vocal melody and vise-verse.

No question, Legacy is an overload of melody and, though catchy, requires a good number of plays for one to grow accustomed to the plethora of leads brought together here. By the time the album reaches its final track you have really lost count of how many great melodies The Morning After have managed to squeeze on their new album Legacy.

Genre: Modern Melodic Hard Rock

Line up:
Sam Ryder (vocals, guitar)
Phil Maher (guitar, keyboards)
Jake Booth (drums)

Tracklist:

01. Legacy
02. Into The Fire
03. Limit
04. America
05. The Witch Is On My Back
06. Over The Wire
07. Streams Of Stars
08. These Hills Have Eyes
09. Powerdrive
10. Rest In Pieces
11. Nightmare Planet
12. Seasons
13. I Walk With Giants

Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10