Fatal Smile World Domination
by John Kindred
Staff Writer
It’s been two years since Fatal Smile’s third album was released. Moving to a new label, Frontiers, has not led to a follow-up release; instead the band has re-released World Domination with the addition of a couple bonus tracks. The narrative of the Swedish rock band hasn’t changed much since our last encounter with the band. Founding guitarist Y and drummer Zteff, continue their rock ‘n’ roll dream with vocalist Blade and bassist Alx in tow.
The band’s heavy rock vibe has rhythmic groove that is comparable to Velvet Revolver and also a melodic undercurrent in the vein of Tiger Tailz. The most notable difference is that vocalist Blade isn’t Scott Wieland (definitely a good thing), in fact, he doesn’t stray too far from the singing style of his predecessor. Y continues to infuse heavy rock rhythms that have a mainstream appeal but also reflects his core influences that certainly come from ‘80s metal bands. As with previous studio efforts, his solos are not vehicles for ego-driven-obsession but merely an extension of the music, driving home the melodic theme of each song.
The notorious Michael Wagener handles production duties, lending his abilities to the band’s arsenal of talent. Blade’s deep-throated delivery, which is similar to Graham Bonnet, is a counterpoint to his peer’s usual shrill, falsetto vocal style. The rhythm section of Alx and Zteff hold together the foundation of the songs. Musically, you can expect heavy, almost crushing rhythms that maintain the focal point of the songs. Zteff’s voice rides over the music, driving home the lyrical message. Y and Zteff both maintain solid interplay between guitarist and vocalist.
Opening World Domination with “S.O.B.,” the band instantly hits on all cylinders. From there, they don’t let off the gas until the final chord has been struck on “Pissed Off.” The band’s influences seep out on the song, “No Tomorrow,” which has a Black Sabbath, slow and darkly inspired rhythmic groove. “Stranger” is another song in which the chorus recalls the English band Tiger Tailz. Loud, hard and heavy seems to be the band’s trademark sound. The additional songs, “Six String Gun” and “Pissed Off,” carry on the harsh, edgy and raw sound. All 12 tracks reflect this attitude.
Fatal Smile certainly is a force to be reckoned with. Hopefully soon, they will deliver a new album of music for listeners to ingest. Their raunchy, heavy style of music pushes the accelerator to the floor, keeping the intensity in the red.
Web: http://www.fatalsmile.com/
Band:
Y (g)
Blade (v)
Alx (b)
Zteff (d)
Track Listing:
1. S.O.B.
2. Stranger
3. Primed & Ready
4. Too Far Down
5. No Tomorrow
6. Out Of My Head
7. Run For Your Life
8. Fatal Smile
9. Straight To Hell
10. Eve Of War
11. Six String Gun (bonus track)
12. Pissed Off (bonus track)
Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10