"Self-titled"
BG Records
7-9-7 is a solid 4-piece rock unit from Germany featuring the extraordinary talents of singer/guitarist Andy Susemihl. A far cry from Susemihl's past metallic endeavors [in the early '90s, Andy was the axe-wielder for both German heavy-weights UDO and Sinner] 7-9-7 shows a much more subdued side of this guitar-shredder turned songwriter. I will admit, though, this 11-song self-produced debut is quite an exceptional and impressive package considering it's released on the band's custom label. Definitely worthy of a major label deal, 7-9-7 oozes with immense talent highlighted by great melodies, soulful guitar work and slick vocals. Great musicianship, the drumming of Gabriel Serra is impeccable, and bassist Pando and second guitarist Jeff Morose really compliment Susemihl's musical tastefulness. Truthfully, some of the tracks are a bit trite, lacking in power and energy, but for the most part, 7-9-7 delivers class and sensibility to their unique brand of melodic rock. Great production courtesy of both Susemihl and Serra, this band has all the ingredients to become platinum status. Personally, not my cup of tea, [I much prefer Susemihl's '95 solo release "Life Among The Roaches," which was much harder-edged than 7-9-7 and truly an underground masterpiece] but there is no denying Susemihl and co. are an incredible song-writing team of musicians that have a lot to offer in the world of melodic rock.
ORANGE GOBLIN
Thieving From The House Of God
The Music Cartel
Orange Goblin has long been one of my favorites from the stoner-rock genre. This band has managed to set themselves apart from the rest of the pack by delivering a much more identifiable sound (i.e.: they don't completely rip-off Sabbath) that combines up-tempo, bone-crushing guitar riffs and balls-out energy (I guess the marijuana hadn't yet taken full-effect on this band). Ben Ward demonstrates a powerful vocal delivery that is raw yet tasteful, as if Rob Zombie sang with soul (but we all know zombies have no soul). Guitarist Joe Hoare has an incredibly thick tone and his attack is ruthless, with riffs wielding unabashed power and immensity. The tunes are solid and well-written, with a few featuring interesting dimensions, which is exemplified on the track "Black Egg." Who would have thought to include soulful female backing vocals to grinding stoner metal? [Picture the Supremes backing Black Sabbath]. This may work for spacey stoner-rock like Pink Floyd, but it just does not work for this type of music. Sorry boys. But other tracks, like the opener, 'Some You Win, Some You Lose," "One Room, One Axe, One Outcome," "Round Up The Horses," and the thrash attack of "Tosh Lines," are straight-up atomic stoner anthems. Even the bands remake of ZZ Top's "Just Got Paid" is commendable. Along with Blind Dog and Solace, Orange Goblin are the leading contender of the new blunt brigade.
Shockwaves CD REVIEWS ISSUE 10 Page 8