MX
"Gone
Snipe Huntin'" (Radical, Inc.)
"Rockz" (Radical, Inc.)
"Gone
Snipe Huntin'"
(Radical, Inc.)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
"Gone Snipe Huntin'" is somewhat different than the reviewed-below "Rockz." Whereas "Rockz" was pretty much pure 80s metal, "Gone Snipe Huntin'" is more cartoon-like and has a more modern sound. Not too modern, mind you, but more of an Alice Cooper concept album sound than the pop metal sound you'd expect from, say, Poison or Motley Crue.
The songs range from dead-on rockers to funky-rhythmed ditties (like "Quicksand" and the rap-tinged "The Tramp"). The guitars are strong throughout, always chunking, never really shredding, but getting the job done. The songwriting is unique in a (are you ready for this?) Talking Heads kind of way and, now that I think about it, MX on "Snipe Huntin'" have a lot in common with that band. Hmmmm.
If I were forced to choose between the two, I think I'd take "Snipe Huntin'" over "Rockz." There seems to be a little more creativity here, although not enough more to grant it an additional half- or full-chansaw rating. However, if you're looking to bang your head, "Rockz" is probably the better choice.
MX: Rad Ray - bass, lead vocals; Detlef von Kalben - drums, percussion; Joseph Scott Burns - guitar, vocals; Kris Madsen - guitar; Melle D - vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.radicalinc.com.
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
According to the liner notes, "Rockz" was originally released in 1986 on vinyl. After listening to just the opening riff of Track 1, "Hyway to the Top," the liner notes become unnecessary. MX is 80s rock, pure and true.
With lead riffs like that of Eddie Van Halen, chunky guitar chordage a la Motley Crue and vocals that bring to mind Starz and Angel, "Rockz" delivers a powerful punch for those who consider the 80s the glory days of metal. And those who prefer their vintage metal a little heavier (i.e., Iron Maiden) need fear not - MX has no problems delivering songs that hit that hard as well. "Tragedy," for example, brings to mind some of Iron Maiden's most popular work.
Most impressive is how well the vinyl has translated to CD. "Rockz" sounds really good considering it's nearly 17 years old. The mix is still fresh and the sound deep and rich.
Fans of MX will want to get this CD into their collection as soon as possible.
MX: Michael S. - lead vocals; Sam Couch - guitars & vocals; Kris Madsen - guitars; Cris Cook - drums; Rad Ray - bass & vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.radicalinc.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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Revised: 20 Mar 2023 19:45:06 -0500.
