Rough Edge: Andy Reisert & Natural Disaster CD Reviews

ANDY REISERT & NATURAL DISASTER

"Time Of Aggression" (Self-produced; 2000)

As its title implies, "Time of Aggression" is a little more aggressive than the demo reviewed earlier. The rhythms are all considerably faster, the guitars a little edgier. In addition, the production of the CD is a little better as well, with the songs being much clearer and hence more effective than the previous CD. The added audio elements (i.e., sound clips, etc.) give "Time of Aggression" somewhat more depth throughout.

All seven tracks are cool, but my favorites were the title track, which lives up to its name, "Natural Disaster," with its blistering riffs and the instrumental, "Back to Hell" with its alternately grinding and shredding guitars and throbbing, Iron Maiden-like pace.

Also included is an eerie, rough-hewn cover of Black Sabbath's "Children of the Grave." This may have been recorded to capitalize on Reisert's alleged vocal similarity to Ozzy Osbourne but, again, I just don't hear it.

Andy Reisert and Natural Disaster play pure, cut-to-the-bone metal. Fans of Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Grim Reaper and the like will find something worth listening to here.

Performing on "Time of Aggression" are: Andy Reisert - vocals, bass; Gregg Woods - rhythm guitar; Joe Kuzmiak - drums; Don Roat - lead guitar, additional vocals.

For more information, check out http://www.naturaldisaster.00band.com/.

"Demo" (Self-produced)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

This demo is straight-forward hard rock with a subtle hint of blues from a group of guys who obviously love playing.

This five song cassette doesn't have a bad song on it, although some were better than others. "Go To Hell" was a favorite, as was "Warzone."

Lead vocalist Andy Reisert has been compared to Ozzy Osbourne, although we didn't hear it. He's good, but in more of a subdued manner than Ozzy. The band plays well together, offering a sound that reminds one of vintage Deep Purple or Rainbow with a somewhat more progressive edge.

Andy Reisert & Natural Disaster: Andy Reisert, vocals and bass; Gregg Woods, guitar; Rick Kopec, drums; Donald Roat, lead guitar; Scott Kopec, lead guitar.

For more information, check out http://www.naturaldisaster.00band.com/.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

Back to CD Reviews Home

Back to RoughEdge.com Home