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SLAVE TO THE SYSTEM
Well here is sort of a supergroup that went un-noticed by the masses, but
should not go un-noticed for too long. Comprised of Damon Johnson and Roman
Glick from Brother Cane (who by the way, released one of the best CD's ever
with Wishpool)
along with Scott Rockenfield and Kelly Gray of Queensryche fame, and Scotty
Heard (Sweaty Nipples?). This band just simply gels really well together and
the songwriting is incredibly strong for a side project. A post-grunge slab
of sound which is a cross between the last Brother Cane CD (the
afformentioned 'Wishpool') and some of the more recent harder edged bands
such as Fuel, Puddle of Mudd and Stained. Damon Johnson, who is a very
accomplished songwriter sings with a swagger and gusto so often lacking with
some of todays leading frontmen, that he propels each tune with a catchy,
open endedness that immediatly draws you in. The opening 'Stigmata' is
terrific, high energy opener which BELONGS blarring on radios this summer,
and the album just picks up from there. 'Ruby Wednesday' and 'Disenfected'
are slamming tracks with plenty of energy and power to carry over in any
arena. I must admit that the slower numbers were the ones that really stuck
with me, 'Abyss' particularly grabbed me right out of the gate with it's
gentle acoustic edge, but very melodic nature. 'Will You Be There' is
another acoustic driven, ala Zeppelin/Skynrd feel of melencholy with a
terrific catchy verse and chorus. I am very pleased to see this project see
the light of day, especially after the last dismal Queensryche offerings
(Where are you Chris Degarmo?). I would not be surprised that this project
gets picked up by a major label sometime soon. Until then, it's only a few
mouse clicks away. Check it out, it's better than most of the useless shit
hitting the radio airwaves these days.
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