Take Cover
Rhino
I usually make a point not to review tribute albums and compilations since most of them these days are shoddy and a lame attempt to cash in as seen with so many indie rock labels banking on the success of others. But seldom do you see one artist, particularly one of Queensryche's stature, release an album of old classic-rock and pop hits. Perhaps inspired by the recent (and quite impressive) Covers album from Rush and (the far less impressive) recent release from Def Leppard, but obviously these artists don't need to capitalize on the success of others, so it's apparent that they are merely paying homage to those artists that have influenced their musical style over the years. But probably the most notable cover-album(s) was Metallica's Garage Days releases considering most Metallica fans had never heard of bands like Blitzkrieg, Diamond Head or Savage prior to those records so that was indeed an honorary tribute. (While I'm on the topic, I should mention a couple other recent tribute CDs I didn't have the chance to review, most notably those from Scandinavian artists Jorn and Overdrive guitarist Janne Stark, and let's not forget Helloween's classic Treasure Chest CD released a few years back.) My point being, very few artists are capable of delivering such a profound commendation as these aforementioned artists have done. And now you can add Queensryche's Take Cover to that list.
My favorites include the great renditions of "Heaven On My Mind" (from Jesus Christ Superstar), Pink Floyd's "Welcome To The Machine," Queen's "Innuendo," and U2's "Bullet The Blue Sky" (I remember the first time I saw The 'Ryche perform this live, it was flawless!). The band even do pretty cool versions of The Police's "Synchronicity II," Buffalo Springfield's "For What It's Worth" and Peter Gabriel's "Red Rain." The remaining tracks are suffice, although not too crazy about their remake of the O'Jays "For The Love Of Money" (believe it or not, I actually prefer the Bullet Boys version) and Sab's "Neon Knights" (I mean, it's a great song to pay homage to and I love Geoff Tate but let's face it, there's no way in hell you're gonna top Dio on that one!). But for rock/metal fans looking for a different take on some great classic-rock songs from the '70s and '80s, Take Cover is definitely a CD for you.
DEADSEA
Deadsea
Chrome Leaf
Deadsea are a cool trio from Ohio who combine early '80s thrash metal in the vein of Slayer and Exodus mixed with unique progressive elements. Lots of dynamics and chord changes, some of which are inordinate but for the most part the riffs are pretty heavy. The seven songs on the EP/CD are all pretty standard and nothing overly exciting but there's an obvious vibe of passion and sincerity in their playing. Not quite the seasoned players but given time this band could be merciless musicians.
