Flywheel
– Flywheel
By Keavin Wiggins
Once in a while a CD comes in from out
of nowhere for review and just floors me. Flywheel’s self-titled debut
is one such CD.
The band doesn’t waste any time. The lead
off track, “Now Or Never,” grabs you by the throat and Flywheel doesn’t
let go until the final note of “Maker”. Vocalist Stephen Bell is
a powerhouse in the Cornell tradition. In fact, he sounds very similar
to the Soundgarden/Audioslave frontman. Bell finds an equal match in intensity
from guitarist Pat Gasperini, who isn’t afraid to be a guitar hero.
Bassist Sandy Nardone and drummer Jimmi
Crifo pound the musical charge with in-your-face rhythms that plow unmercifully
from track to track. This is heavy rock the way it should be; hard rockin’,
fist pounding, yet melody driven.
The production is virtually flawless, the
aggressive power is harnessed with multi-textured delivery that could easily
be muddied and over produced, but in this case isn’t. The end result is
a band that doesn’t substitute their power for commercial viability. In
fact, that’s what makes them that much more powerful, they offer credible
heavy rock that could easily dominate the charts if given the chance.
“Now Or Never”, sounds like beefed up Sabbath
meets Soundgarden meets the melodic sensibilities of Badlands. It has riffage
that should please nu-metal kids but the rest of the package leads into
the post grunge and hard rock era.
The second track keeps up the pace and
Bell once again shows he’s a vocal hero for another generation but the
music also packs a mean punch, with the guitars at times sounding like
Black Label Society. Once the solo kicks in Gasperini shows that he doesn’t’
want to be compared to other hard rock soloist with his flashy yet restrained
delivery, which is compelling enough to grab your attention but not over
done.
Flywheel are far from being a one trick
pony, each song delivers a distinct glimpse into their creativity. “Screamin’”
is a standout on many levels. It’s unusual riffage and light verses to
heavy choruses. “Forgot Your Name” should take you back to classic
metal heaven with its compelling guitar lead.
“Stinging” is pure metal magic and the
dynamics of “Madness” cement Flywheel’s hard rock credibility. This is
indeed the surprise heavy rock release of the year that should be setting
the scene on its ear. This is one kick ass release that shouldn’t be ignored!
CD Info
Flywheel
– Flywheel
Label: Electric
Records
Rating:  
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