ADRIANGALE – Suckerpunch! (2013)

* thanx to Brian Rademacher

It’s been almost thirteen years since former Guardian vocalist Jamie Rowe hooked up with partner Vic Rivera to release the ADRIANGALE debut in 2000. The band gained a huge following in the Melodic Rock world and they haven’t looked back since.
During that time there was periods of short silence as the band became CRUNCH but now they have returned better than ever as the spotlight is back on ADRIANGALE with their new release “Sucker Punch” to be out on Kivel Records at the end of the month.

The disc starts off with the title track “Sucker Punch” and it begins with the sounds of the boxing ring which runs into some tantalizing dual guitar work by Eddie Campbell and Vic Rivera. Jamie Rowe is masterful with his suave style that caresses each lyric. The strong background vocals and great harmonies are sure to set fire to the disc.
“Black and Blue” is another explosive track with subtle vocals that accelerates into a classic sounding gem. One thing that really stands tall on this new effort is the great production.
Just listening, you can hear every drum note by Vic Rivera and the lead guitar work by Eddie Campbell shines in a reminiscent sound of Joe Satriani.

“When I Said You’d Be The One” has that flair that will have crowds singing along. It has that great melodic poppy style that brings fans to their feet with an arena feel.
“All About Money” picks up the tempo as drummer Vic Rivera and bass groovin’ Matt Mahoney hold the key to this one. The rhythm guitar pulsates and the tasty solos by Campbell slice the chords. Once again the background vocals standout in a major way that gives the song full body.
Jumping to “Give Me a Sign”, it just happens to be my favorite track. Rivera does a great incantation of Eddie Van Halen and has massive appeal with riveting masterful leads. The song flows so well it seems I wanted more.

Another melodic highlight arrives with “What Would You Do”, a song with a hit-chart label stamped all over it. Jamie Rowe has those vocals that calm the senses and the smooth approach which makes you melt with each song. I love the soaring guitar work and the mainstay harmonies set the mood.
Adding an instrumental like “Temporis Intermisso” just shows class in the members of Adriangale. You would think what can a melodic rock band explore with an instrumental like this one. Well boys and girls sit back, turn the lights low and delve into the talents of these guys. Excellent stuff.

If I had to pick a single myself it would be “The World We Knew” as Rowe explodes with delight. The song itself truly is a Melodic Rock gem. I feel radio airplay – but there is no airplay anymore – so be sure to pick the disc up to listen to all the songs, but this one in particular is worth every dime in your pocket.
Then “Could’ve Been Me”, what more can I say but that it is an excellent song!
Ending the CD is a sweet ballad called “You”. It’s a sentimental song that shows Rivera taking on piano duties but the key is Rowe sending chills down your back with his delivery of the tune. Sure has that great sound of vintage Tesla that Adriangale owns these days. This could be one of ‘the’ power ballad for 2013.

“Sucker Punch” is a total modern-day Melodic Rock gem by Adriangale, with so many outstanding songs, great playing and superb production that deserves to be listened by all fans of this beloved genre.
Very Recommended.

01 – Suckerpunch!
02 – The Black and Blue
03 – When I Said You’d Be the One
04 – All About the Money
05 – Believe
06 – Give Me a Sign
07 – What Would You Do
08 – Temporis Intermisson
09 – The World We Knew
10 – Could of Been Me
11 – You

Jamie Rowe – Vocals
Vic Rivera – Guitar, Drums
Eddie Campbell – Guitar
Matt Mahoney – Bass

Pre-Oder:
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