HOUSE OF LORDS – Precious Metal [Japan Edition] (2014)
One of the most awaited releases in the Melodic Hard Rock scene this year is without a doubt “Precious Metal”, the new record by the never-failing HOUSE OF LORDS. After three years from their critically acclaimed Big Money, many things happened; James won the fight against cancer, produced the new record for his wife (the great Robin Beck) and he released a new killer solo album last year.
This presumes a little time to work on “Precious Metal”, but let me tell you: as usual, James Christian & Co. does not disappoint.
“Precious Metal” rocks, with House Of Lords’ traditional blend of pumpin’ Eighties guitar-driven Melodic Hard Rock and the sligthly heavier approach of the last records which maintains the band updated and fresh.
You recognize this immediately when you listen to the opener “Battle” – this is a monster of a song with crunchy guitars, powerhouse vocals and a catchy chorus. It’s simply the best House of Lords tune I heard in years and the highlight of this CD.
Cuts like “I’m Breakin’ Free” and “Action” are typical ’80s Hard Rockers plenty of attack, “You Might Just Save My Life Tonight” and “Live Every Day (Like It’s The Last)” are designed for the arenas with a truly ‘live’ vibe, while on the other side you have the very harmonic Melodic Rock songs like “Turn Back The Tide” and “Epic”. But also there, you feel a heavier approach.
Another thing that underlines this fact is that you won’t find many ballads on “Precious Metal”. The title track is the only pure ballad (and a powerful one) featuring a soaring melodic line providing a welcomed alternation to the rest of the songs.
Soundwise, “Precious Metal” features a solid production by James Christian himself. The rhythm section is tight and also Jimi Bell on guitars ensures that this album comes along with a real kick-ass-sound. His hard riffing and fast guitar play fits perfectly to James’ soaring vocals.
Yeah, James Christian screams his heart out on many songs and his raspy, unique voice gives each song the unmistakable House Of Lords stamp.
You can grab this one blindly, another fabulous slab of loud, raucous and majestic Melodic Hard Rock music.
Very Recommended.
01 – Battle
02 – I’m Breakin’ Free
03 – Epic
04 – Live Every Day (Like It’s the Last)
05 – Permission to Die
06 – Precious Metal
07 – Swimmin with the Sharks
08 – Raw
09 – Enemy Mine
10 – Action
11 – Turn Back the Tide
12 – You Might Just Save My Life
13 – Precious Metal [acoustic version] (Bonus Track)
James Christian – vocals
Jimi Bell – guitars
Chris McCarvill – bass
BJ Zampa – drums
Robin Beck – guest vocals
BUY IT !
www.nehrecords.com/SHOP/HousePrecious.htm
.
