MICHALE GRAVES
"Return
to Earth" (Horror High; 2006)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Fans of horror rock will find another successful artist and release in Michale Graves' "Return to Earth."
Sounding like a clever combination of modern Misfits and classic Danzig (with a little Ramones-style vitality thrown in), "Return to Earth" is simple, driving rock'n'roll with a punk rock attitude and a fresher sound than one might expect from the genre. For the most part, "Return to Earth" sounds new rather than vintage and, especially with this type of music, that's a good thing. And there's a reason this CD may sound a little like modern Misfits: Graves was the vocalist beginning in 1996.
In addition, Graves avoids the standard lyrical content usually associated with horror rock; in other words, you won't find songs like "Frankenstein Lives!" or "Dracula Sucks!" on this CD. Instead, the lyrics are a little more intelligent than most, exploring the realm of human experience rather than just the notion of a hungry zombie tracking some warm brains (although that's almost always cool). Note especially the poignant (that's right, I said poignant!) title track, "Return to Earth."
Fans of bands like the Misfits, Danzig, The Damned and Balzac and the like will find "Return to Earth" to their liking.
Performing on "Return to Earth" are: Michale Graves - vocals, rhythm guitar, synthesizer; Qunicy Smash! - drums, bass, lead guitar.
For more information, check out http://www.michalegraves.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.
Copyright © 2007 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Nov 2024 12:24:00 -0500.
