ALBUM REVIEWS - 2004

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0 height="100%"><tr> <td valign="top" width=210 BGCOLOR="#333366" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="www.scotrock.co.uk"><U><I><STRIKE><IMG SRC="523aaaa0.jpg" border=0 width="170" height="170" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></STRIKE></I></U></A></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="4" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="2" WIDTH="144" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#444444" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#333366 HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="126"><div> <A HREF="site_map.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="SITE MAP"><U><B>SITE MAP</B></U></A></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <B>ALBUMS REVIEWED</B><B> -</B></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#u2_atomic_bomb" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>U2 - HOW TO DISMANTLE AN ATOMIC BOMB</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#fastball___keep_your_wig_on__2005_" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>FASTBALL - Keep Your Wig On </U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#12_stones" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>12 STONES - POTTERS FIELD</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#subsurface" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>THRESHOLD - SUBSURFACE</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#live_all_over" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>KINGS X - LIVE ALL OVER THE PLACE</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#feedback" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>RUSH - FEEDBACK</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#first_leaf" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>LOGAN - FIRST LEAF FALLEN</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#crows" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>FISH - FIELD OF CROWS</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#jets_ep" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>SCREAMING JETS - HEART OF THE MATTER EP</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#revolution" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>STEVE EARLE - THE REVOLUTION STARTS NOW</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#into_the_now" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>TESLA - INTO THE NOW</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#a_crow_left" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>INCUBUS - A CROW LEFT OF THE MURDER</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#srange_generation" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>DIRTY AMERICANS - STRANGE GENERATION</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#the_battle" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>FIVE FOR FIGHTING -THE BATTLE FOR EVERYTHING</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#you_are_here" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>UFO - YOU A</U></A><A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#you_are_here" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>RE HERE</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#one_day_remains" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>ALTER BRIDGE - ONE DAY REMAINS</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#silversun___disappear_here" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>SILVERSUN - DISAPPEAR HERE</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#contraband" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>VELVET REVOLVER - CONTRABAND</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#bubblegum" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>MARK LANEGAN - BUBBLEGUM</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#auf_der_maur" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>AUF DER MAUR - AUF DER MAUR</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm#amplifier" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U>AMPLIFIER - AMPLIFIER</U></A></div> <bR> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF"> <bR> <div> <B><U>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2004</U></B></div> <div>  <A NAME="u2_atomic_bomb"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="4" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="2" WIDTH="754" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#444444" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 288 WIDTH="736"><bR> <div> <B><U>U2</U></B><B> - </B><B>How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb (2004)</B></div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="c51dbdc0.jpg" border=0 width="219" height="220" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="10" VSPACE="0"><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FFFFFF" FACE="Arial" >The biggest band in the world are back, but do they still have the magic? On this evidence it's a big Yes. The band kick off with the No 1 single "Vertigo", a pulsating beat which will open their concerts this summer. Miracle Drug is one of my favourites on the CD, and reminds me of early U2 (maybe it's just me!), and then into the poignant "Sometimes You Cant Make It On Your Own", a tribute to Bono's dad who died last year. The album then ticks along with what will be considered future U2 classics, which will get their first airings at this summers gigs, which I for one am lucky to be going to. Look out for the future Scot-Rock review. </FONT></div> <div> U2 are back with a rocking new album, not so much pushing the pretenders out the way, but giving them a boot up the arse as they gallop past. Back where they belong....on top!</div> <div> <B>SR Rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Peter White)</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="fastball___keep_your_wig_on__2005_"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="4" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="2" WIDTH="754" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#444444" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 241 WIDTH="736"><bR> <div> <B><U>FASTBALL</U></B><B> - Keep Your Wig On (2004)</B></div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="646aaaa0.png" border=0 width="170" height="170" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="10" VSPACE="0">Keep Your Wig On is the 4th studio album from Austin Texas based band Fastball. After the sparse keyboard opener, "Shortwave" Fastball bounce into the excellent "Lou - ee, Lou - ee". This track shows the band at their best with their trademark uptempo pop rock style and vocal harmonies. The rest of the album rolls along nicely, with "Drifting Away" and "Our Misunderstanding" also standing out. Fastball rarely delve into new territory and stick to their Beatles esq winning formula. They remain best known for their 1988 single "The Way" from the impressive All The Pain Money Can Buy album. Yet you could do much worse with your money than buy this or other Fastball albums.</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh, 2005)</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> <B> <A NAME="12_stones"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B> </B></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 296 WIDTH="366"><div> <B> </B></div> <div> <B>12 STONES</B></div> <div> Potters Field (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="272d5d50.jpg" border=0 width="213" height="213" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Potters Field is the 2nd album from Christian rockers 12 Stones. The American band's profile increased considerably when singer Paul McCoy featured on the Evanescence hit single "Bring Me To Life". Yet 12 Stones have strong material of their own, and there is much to be admired about this album. Potters Field is energetic, weighty, and filled with great hooks and riffs. McCoy's vocals remain aggressive and expressive. Stand out tracks include "Far Away" and "Stay".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="subsurface"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 282 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>THRESHOLD</B></div> <div> Subsurface (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="26ccbc70.jpg" border=0 width="203" height="199" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> British progressive metal band Threshold return with new album Subsurface. Threshold couple the musicality of 70s prog bands like Yes with the harder edge of more recent bands like Metallica. They create melodic, powerfull songs with plenty of emotion. Stand out tracks include "Stop Dead" and "The Destruction Of Words". Fans of Dreamtheater etc. should not be disappointed.</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="live_all_over"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 292 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>KING`S X</B></div> <div> Live All Over The Place (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="16cd1d10.jpg" border=0 width="209" height="209" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <bR> <div> Live All Over The Place is the first official live album from the Houston Texas based power trio. The album spans different stages in the band's 23 year career and includes tracks from all albums except  the below par Please Come Home Mr Bulbous and King`s X. Live All Over The Place has 2 discs and a mammoth 25 tracks which includes a 7 track acoustic set. Old favourites like "Over My Head" and "Dogman" show King`s X at their best and make you wonder why the band are so under rated. A list of when and where the songs were recorded would have been good (the Glasgow gigs might be in there somewhere) but this is a minor quibble for what is essentially a great piece of work.</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 9 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="feedback"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 274 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>RUSH</B></div> <div> Feedback (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="7a3bfbf0.jpg" border=0 width="191" height="191" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Feedback has been released to coincide with Rush`s 30th anniversary tour. It`s essentially an album of cover versions of songs which they played in their teens in pre Rush days. Showing their age, all tracks are from the sixties and feature great bands such as Cream ("Crossroads") and The Who ("The Seeker"). The Canadian trio sound in great form and obviously enjoyed making this album. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="first_leaf"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 281 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>LOGAN</B></div> <div> First Leaf Fallen (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="7a4c4c60.jpg" border=0 width="196" height="198" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Logan are a little known hard rock band from Glasgow. First Leaf Fallen is their first album and shows great promise from this local talent. Their no nonsense approach comes from the same school as Creed, Pearl Jam, and AIC. Vocalist Kenny Collins dulcet tones fit the riff laden music perfectly. Stand out tracks are "Like A Rain" and "Had It All". With the recent success of other Glasgow bands such as Franz Ferdinand it would be great to see Logan coming to the fore to represent the heavier end of the market. Recommended. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 6.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> Available from <A HREF="http://www.logan-net.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.logan-net.com"><U>www.logan-net.com</U></A></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="crows"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 314 ><NOBR><bR> <div> <B>FISH</B></div> <div> Field Of Crows (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="1300ce70.jpg" border=0 width="268" height="231" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Field Of Crows is a superb new album from the former Marillion front man. Some of the big fellow's solo work has been a bit patchy, yet this release stands proudly beside his masterworks Vigil In A Wilderness Of Mirrors (1990), and Sunsets On Empire (1997). The album is co written by Fish and former Big Country man Bruce Watson. The Big Country flavour continues with Mr Watson playing guitar and Mark Brzezicki playing drums throughout the album. Stand out tracks include "The Rookie" and "Moving Targets". This quality release should be a real wake up call for all Fish fans. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="jets_ep"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 213 ><NOBR><bR> <div> <B>THE SCREAMING JETS</B></div> <div> Heart Of The Matter EP (2004 Australian import)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="13182820.jpg" border=0 width="130" height="130" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Heart Of The Matter is the feisty Australian rockers first release since 1991`s Live Forever album. This 5 track EP is a prelude for a new album scheduled for next year. Stand out tunes are the title track and "Right Place Wrong Time". Happily the Jets' music remains punchy and full of attitude. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="revolution"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 279 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>STEVE EARLE</B></div> <div> The revolution starts now (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="133c4c40.jpg" border=0 width="196" height="196" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> American country rock singer Steve Earle returns with an album littered with political views but never straying from his trusted formula of good tunes and a great ability to tell a story with his lyrics. Highlights include the title track and "rich mans war" and the Parental advised "F the CC". Emmylou Harris makes her usual guest appearance on "Comin' round" to keep this album on an even keel. These songs will sound better live and Steve comes to Scotland in November 2004 so get your tickets early as it's sure to be a sell out. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10. </B></div> <bR> <div> (by Peter White)</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="into_the_now"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 269 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>TESLA</B></div> <div> Into The Now (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="135bdba0.jpg" border=0 width="189" height="186" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> After several years absence American rockers Tesla are back with a new album. Into The Now is Tesla's 5th studio album. With this release Tesla show that they remain relevant and creative. The band's twin guitar fuelled heavy rock still sounds great today. Outstanding tracks include "Into The Now", "Caught In A Dream" and "Heaven Nine Eleven".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="a_crow_left"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 233 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>INCUBUS</B></div> <div> A Crow Left Of The Murder (2004) </div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="13696960.jpg" border=0 width="150" height="150" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> This is the Californian band's 4th studio album. After the success of Morning View, the band's excellent last release, Incubus saw their popularity soar. It seems that they are now trying too hard to please everyone. A Crow sees Incubus becoming less funky and seeming to lack direction. Still, there are several great tracks here which make this album well worth having. Stand out tracks include "Southern Girl", "Agoraphobia" and "Talk Shows On Mute".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="srange_generation"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="761" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 270 WIDTH="376"><bR> <div> <B>DIRTY AMERICANS</B></div> <div> Strange Generation (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="7a5bdbb0.jpg" border=0 width="189" height="187" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <bR> <div> Dirty Americans have a vibrant 70s rock sound. On listening to them it`s hard to believe three members of the band used to be in Nu Metal outfit The Workhouse Movement. The trio are joined by drummer Jeremiah Pilbeam (surely a contender for name of the year) on drums. Strange Generation is a well rounded and exciting album. Outstanding tracks include "No Rest", "Light - Headed" and the title track.</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> <B> <A NAME="the_battle"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 268 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>FIVE FOR FIGHTING</B></div> <div> The Battle For Everything (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="139bab90.jpg" border=0 width="186" height="185" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> American band Five For Fighting are fronted by talented singer / piano player John Ondrasik. Mr Ondrasik writes mellow, thoughtful music, which has plenty of feeling. The Battle is a good album yet fails to reach the high standard of Five For Fighting's previous release America Town. Outstanding tracks include "NYC Weather Report", "100 Years" and "The Taste".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="you_are_here"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>78</div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 269 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>UFO</B></div> <div> You Are Here (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="13bbaba0.jpg" border=0 width="186" height="186" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> You Are Here is probably UFO`s best album since 1981s The Wild, The Willing, And The Innocent. A change of personnel has injected new life into the old band. UFO regulars Moog, Way, and Raymond are joined by talented guitarist Vinnie Moore and thunderous drummer Jason Bonham. It`s a solid lively album that should please even the most critical of UFO fans. Outstanding tracks include "When Daylight Goes To Town", "Slipping Away" and "Baby Blue".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="one_day_remains"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 233 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>ALTER BRIDGE</B></div> <div> One Day Remains (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="13c96960.jpg" border=0 width="150" height="150" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Rising from the ashes of Creed comes new band Alter Bridge. Alter Bridge are basically Creed with an excellent new vocalist Myles Kennedy (previously with The Mayfield Four). This is a very strong album with obvious Creed influences, and sees Mark Tremonti displaying real talent as a lead guitarist. Outstanding tracks include "Open Your Eyes", "Broken Wings", "Metalingus" and "Down To My Last". It is mature power rock of the highest caliber.  It is mature power rock of the highest caliber. </div> <div> <B>SR rating of 9 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="silversun___disappear_here"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 268 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>SILVER SUN</B></div> <div> Disappear Here (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="2a0c5b90.png" border=0 width="197" height="185" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> James Broad and the boys return to the fore with Disappear Here, Silver Suns 3rd studio album. As usual there's plenty of catchy pop rock tunes. Good CD yet SS have yet to make that killer album that will take them to a wider audience. Outstanding tracks include "Can`t Get You Out Of My Head" and "Bubblegum".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (AC)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="contraband"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 262 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>VELVET REVOLVER</B></div> <div> Contraband (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="13fc9b30.jpg" border=0 width="201" height="179" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> New super group consisting of GNR`s Slash, Duff & Matt, STP`s Scott Weiland, and their mate Dave Kushner. This highly polished band have given us a prime slice of heavy rock to chew on. Benefits from repeat listening as some of the best tracks are in the second half of the album. Outstanding tracks include "Fall To Pieces", "Slither" and "Do It For The Kids".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7.5 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="bubblegum"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 259 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>MARK LANEGAN BAND</B></div> <div> Bubblegum (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="29fb9b00.jpg" border=0 width="185" height="176" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> The gravel voiced singer returns with more dark tales of woe. Lanegans solo work has to date been more sedate than former band Screaming Trees. Yet by no means less powerful. Captivating. Outstanding tracks include "One Hundred Days", "When Your Number Isn`t Up" and "Strange Religion".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 8 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="auf_der_maur"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 261 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>AUF DER MAUR</B></div> <div> Auf Der Maur (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="141b2b20.jpg" border=0 width="178" height="178" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Melissa Auf Der Maur played Bass for Hole and latter days Smashing Pumpkins. She has now made the transition to front woman of her own band with interesting results. Coping with vocals and Bass with ease.  File under psychedelic rock. Outsatanding tracks include "Followed The Waves" and "Beast Of Honor".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="amplifier"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="751" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#000000 > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 258 WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> <B>AMPLIFIER</B></div> <div> Amplifier (2004)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="142baaf0.jpg" border=0 width="186" height="175" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="366"><bR> <div> Amplifier greet you with big fuzzy walls of feedback. Most tracks on this their first album are melodic and mid tempo, although they can get a bit long and overindulgent at times. It's a good start which promises much in the future.  Outstanding tracks include "Motorhead", "Post Acid Youth" and "Half Life".</div> <div> <B>SR rating of 7 out of 10.</B></div> <bR> <div> (by Alan Cosh)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id146.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="REVIEWS"><U>REVIEWS</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id48.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2008"><U>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2008</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews94.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2007"><U>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2007</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2006"><U>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2006</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2005.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2005"><U>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2005</U></A></div> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c8ffffff00.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">ALBUM REVIEWS - 2004</B></div> <div> <A HREF="dvd_reviews.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="DVD REVIEWS"><U>DVD REVIEWS</U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <div>  <iframe src="http://rcm-uk.amazon.co.uk/e/cm?t=scotrockcouk-21&o=2&p=35&l=ez&f=ifr" width="150" height="80" scrolling="no" border="0" frameborder="0" style="border:none;"></iframe>  </div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> Scot Rock is copyright © of Alan Cosh 2004 - 2008, All Rights Reserved.</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="album_reviews___2004_m.htm" TITLE="ALBUM REVIEWS 2004"><U><B><U>Back to Top</U></B></U></A></div> <bR> <div> <I>ALBUM REVIEWS - 2004</I></div> </td> </tr></table></body>