Rough Edge: Molotow CD Reviews

MOLOTOW

"Rocktales" (Nordic Records; 2009)

"Rocktales" is a nice return to 80s style heavy metal in the vein of Ratt, Warrant and Kiss. The good news is that, If you're a fan of that era, then this CD is for you. The bad news is that, by track 4, the novelty has already worn off. It's still a good record and it's certainly listenable enough but it would have helped if the band had added a fresh sound of all their own rather than depend so much on the old school.

I will say this: the band's melodies, choruses and verses stick in your head long after the CD's stopped spinning. You'll still be humming along with this infectious tunes days after you've listened to the CD. These days, that's saying something.

It might also have helped if the band had bumped up the production just a notch. Again, it's not bad, but could be just a little bit brighter overall.

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

"Feat. Rock & Roll" (Molotow Records; 2007)

Reviewed by Metal Mark

At it's best, hard rock in the 1980s could have a fun feel, memorable hooks and catchy melodies. At its worst, it could too often be repetitive, cheesy and generic. Norway's Molotow have released a debut that, fortunately, hits more in that first category. Unfortunately, it touches some in the second category as well and I think that's largely due to the fact that they are trying so hard to fit into this style and that includes a few of the cliches of the style as well.

What struck me first was that, for a debut album from a young band, this a very professional sounding production. It has very strong production values and it's slick, but it's not overdone either. It's melodic hard rock with glam undertones, if a specific label has to be slapped on it. The vocals are clear and and work nicely without being too sappy. The music is primarily strong with a good flow, fairly solid hooks and a strong sense that the band can be in control when they try.

However, there are a few songs that seem to suffer from being too basic and from not really taking enough risks musically. With titles like "Surrender to Rock & Roll," "Beam Me Up (For Glam and Glory)" and "80s," it's obvious Molotow have decided to settle on very basic and perhaps all too cliched song topics. That was a little tough to take but, for the most part, the music and vocals are so good that they sweep the weak lyrics away and you are left with the impression that this is an admirable debut.

For the most part, "Feat. Rock & Roll" goes over rather smoothly and it's a fairly enjoyable ride. However it's largely a ride back to a past style and -- while that can be a nice start -- I hope the band continues to push and develop more of their own style as well.

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

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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