On disc: King Kobra

 
 King Kobra
 
- Claudia Ehrhardt -
 
 


 
 II
 
- Claudia Ehrhardt -
 
 

II

(Frontiers Records - 2013)



 
 

 

King Kobra was founded by Carmine Appice in 1984 and was disbanded in 1988, then there was a short period in 2000/2001 where the band was revived. In 2010 they came back and these days King Kobra is: Paul Shortino on vocals, on guitars David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda, on bass Johnny Rod and last but not least founder Carmine Appice.



They kick off with the catchy Hell On Wheels, a heavy up-tempo rocker which brings back the 80's sound without sounding old-fashioned. For the next one they add a dash of boogie to their 80's heavy metal. They slow down for Have A Good Time, a boogie-based hard rock tune. Not one of the strongest tunes, in my opinion. A highlight is The Ballad Of Johnny Rod! But you have to listen to it yourself to get it. Another highlight is Running Wild which offers a prominent guitar line and it's ennobled by Paul Shortino's voice. The slow Got It Comin' might be even better in an acoustic version... Anyway, not a filler! The Crunch is a cool rocker which sticks out a bit, but in a positive way. Towards the end they present Don't Keep Me Waiting, a song based on a staccato riff, but with a lot of melodic guitar leads. When they slow down for a moment it reminds me of old Whitesnake... They close this chapter with We Go Round, a song which seems to be perfect for cruising at a summer night.



Perhaps it's not all killers, but there aren't fillers. It's more than just a decent album, but that's to expect from this bunch of guys. Let's hope they keep going and present another album somewhere in time.



 
 










Claudia Ehrhardt


  
up 













King Kobra

(Frontiers Records - 2011)



 
 

 

Anybody remembering King Kobra? The band which was founded by Carmine Appice in the mid-80's? Anyway, they are back with the '85 line-up, well almost, coz instead of original singer Mark Free they have ex-Rough Cutt singer Paul Shortino added to their ranks. The reunion took place in 2010 and now they present their new album full of new tracks.



Rock This House was chosen as the opening track and it seems to be the motto of King Kobra 2011! The songs have an authentic 80's feel - incl. some cheesy lyrics - in combination with a modern production. With Rock This House they proof that they are still alive 'nd kickin'. Everybody who enjoyed the mid- / late 80's sound will be delighted. On a heavy groove they base Turn Up The Good (Times), an infectious rocker with a sleazy edge. With a heart beat like rhythm they lead you into Tear Down The Walls, a stomping rocker with a great vocal performance of Paul Shortino and big backings. Some passages sound quite familiar and you'll join in soon, singing along the first time you're listening. A bit retro is We Got A Fever, a bluesy 70's heavy rocker which is a bit repetitive (vocal line), but saved by the guitar play of Mick Sweda and David Michael-Philips. With acoustic guitars Crying Turns To Rain begins, slowly they head into this powerful balladesque tune. I can imagine that in an acoustic version it would be even more powerful and touching. Time to speed up for Screamin' For More! Lyrically not one of the highlights, but musically a lot of fun. The closer is called Fade Away, vocals and acoustic guitars open up. A ballad with a slight symphonic touch which is crowned by Shortino's raspy vocals.



You'll find several references to other bands, some classics in the songs, but the way King Kobra present it, is fun and will make you forget about it. Listen to This Is How We Roll and you'll know what I'm talking about!



I confess that when I heard about the reunion and an upcoming album I wasn't too thrilled, even if with Paul Shortino and Carmine Appice two great musicians part of it. Usually after so many years a reunion means a mediocre output and soon the band is history again. Well, King Kobra delivered a great album which revives the 80's - the music of they heydays - and is pure fun. So, if you like this kind of music, if you love Shortino's voice, then don't hesitate and get your copy today!

 
 










Claudia Ehrhardt


  
up 





 
           ©2008-2014 by Claudia Ehrhardt • E-Mail: contact@ice-vajal.com