Rough Edge: The Lizards CD Reviews

THE LIZARDS

"Reptilicus Maximus" (Rocker Records; 2015)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

My review of The Lizards' last release, "Against All Odds" could almost be copied and pasted here. The new album (which took too long to get here!) is called "Reptilicus Maximus" and it's another hefty chunk of awesome classic rock sound.

Don't get me wrong: the new CD is not a carbon copy of the last one, but it's got everything I loved about "Against All Odds." Heavy, bluesy guitar, soaring leads, amazing vocals and songs you'll want to sing along with the first time you hear them.

There's no real point in praising the talent involved here. These are amazing veteran musicians who are legends already and the talent on display throughout "Reptilicus Maximus" really speaks for itself, as does the amazing line-up of guests: Glenn Hughes, Frank Marino, Vinnie Moore, Terry RondinelIi, and David Lanik.

Fans of The Lizards and of classic rock in general will love "Reptilicus Maximus." Here's to hoping we don't have to wait another nine years for the next album!

The Lizards: Mike DiMeo - vocals, keyboards; Patrick Klein - guitars, background vocals; Randy Pratt - bass guitar, harmonica; Bobby Rondinelli - drums; Scott 'The Doctor' Treibitz - keyboards.

"Against All Odds" (Hyperspace; 2006)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

Fans of bands like Deep Purple, Vanilla Fudge, Free, MC5 and others: Rejoice! The Lizards' "Against All Odds" is yet another fine example that classic rock is far from dead and gone.

Featuring former members of Blue Oyster Cult and Riot, The Lizards make "Against All Odds" a tribute to 70s-style rock'n'roll while at the same time making it sound new. It's hard rock that isn't afraid to get a little funky. In fact, much of this CD could be called hard rock blues, complete with harmonica and boogie riffs galore (especially "Planck Time," the CD's only instrumental).

Fans of vocalist Mike DiMeo's work in Riot will find much more to like here. DiMeo's voice gives "Against All Odds" an epic sound, especially on the big tunes, such as the 9+ minute "Can't Fool Myself" and the ethereal "Ariel." DiMeo can't take all the credit, though, as the legendary Glenn Hughes of Deep Purple helps out on a couple of tunes.

Speaking of Glenn Hughes, his music and that of The Lizards' "Against All Odds" have much in common. They are rock'n'roll releases of the highest quality that celebrate music that may not be the flavor-of-the-month but that will never become obsolete.

The Lizards: Mike DiMeo - vocals, keyboards; Patrick Klein - guitars, background vocals; Randy Pratt - bass guitar, harmonica; Bobby Rondinelli - drums.

For more information, check out http://www.thelizardswebsite.com.

"Against All Odds" (Hyperspace; 2006)

Reviewed by Snidermann

There are different levels of rock'n'roll, ranging from punk on one end to death metal on the other. The Lizards' "Against All Odds" fall smack dab in the middle.

This release is packed with quality, high end, classic rock'n'roll. No bubble gum and no hidden meanings here, just quality music that is done intelligently and with style.

Fans of classic rock bands like Blue Oyster Cult and Foghat will find something to like about "Against All Odds."

The Lizards: Mike DiMeo - vocals, keyboards; Patrick Klein - guitars, background vocals; Randy Pratt - bass guitar, harmonica; Bobby Rondinelli - drums.

For more information, check out http://www.thelizardswebsite.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.

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