ALEXI LALAS
"Ginger" (CMC
International; 1998)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Yes, it's that Alexi Lalas - the soccer player of the U.S. National Team and the superstar defender on the NY/NJ MetroStars. And, yes, this is a real rock'n'roll release - not one of those novelty releases that sometimes get released because record companies think an athlete's name will sell CDs. But here's the really surprising thing: This record really rocks. "Ginger" sounds like a cross between BLUE OYSTER CULT and JOHN COUGAR MELLENCAMP. Great, crisp guitars (courtesy of Alexi,) suprisingly authentic and stylish vocals (also courtesy Alexi,) and tight, well-written songs (you guessed it - also courtesy Alexi). It's a straight-forward rock'n'roll record that is melodic and hook-y and that drags you into its sound from the very first track.
Of course, Alexi is best known for his expertise on the soccer field, but music has always been his first love. "This has never felt like a hobby or a sideline to me," he says, "I am as serious about my music today as I ever was." That doesn't mean his quitting soccer any time soon, but he'll do what it takes to make sure the world hears "Ginger." "I will go out to support the album," Alexi assures us, "I'm currently putting together a band with some musicians I know from Boston and New York. I'll continue to play soccer as long as my body holds out, but I'll be playing music for the rest of my life."
The CD also includes a multimedia section including the lyrics, photos and Quicktime interviews with Alexi.
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 © 2001 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Mar 2024 13:23:51 -0500.
