Rough Edge: Jizzy Pearl CD Reviews

JIZZY PEARL

"Crucified" (Self-Released; 2014)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

Jizzy Pearl, who's been in more bands than Samuel Jackson has been in movies, releases this six song EP as a solo offering and it's one interesting collection.

"Crucified" begins with "Hanging You Out to Dry," a hard rock number that's so gritty it almost falls into punk rock territory. Next up is "Sunny Day," a slower number with raunchy guitars and a big sound. If you expected the EP to continue in the vein of "Hanging You Out to Dry," "Sunny Day" certainly puts that to rest right away. The remaining tracks fall somewhere between the heavier, slower sound of "Sunny Day" and hard rock ballads, at which Jizzy's voice, which is a pleasing cross between Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Rod Stewart, excels, especially on "I Don't Want to Be Your Baby."

All in all, "Crucified" is an entertaining diversion but would have felt more complete as a full-length rather than just six songs. Still, Jizzy's been around a long time and it's good to see he's still capable of delivering solid rock'n'roll.

Interesting note: At the time of this writing, Jizzy is making the rounds with his "Jizzy Pearl's Love/Hate" tour, under which moniker this album was originally supposed to be released. (Due to potential legal conflicts, apparently, "Crucified" became a solo album).

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

"Vegas Must Die!" (Shrapnel; 2005)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Jizzy Pearl is one of the few C-list metal band singers that continuously puts out heartfelt hard rock. The aptly titled "Vegas Must Die!" is Jizzy’s latest solo shot, his third in between stints in LA Guns and RATT.

Exploring the seedy underbelly of Sin City, Pearl’s distinct vocal delivery mixes his unique Love/Hate style while summoning the ghost of Bon Scott along the way. Going over the top with grit, Pearl’s convincingly “been there, done that” attitude on tracks like “Look At You Now” and the muscular AC/DC blues of “Lies” are just a few of the 11-track disc’s treats.

Assisted by members of Great White and Salty Dog, the undeniable sleaze rock grooves of “Only Wait So Long” and “Good Girl” are ready for the stripper’s pole, while “True Love” sounds like a throwback from 1988. Pearl’s still rocking the outlaw image, only this time it’s through his experienced eyes, giving acoustic handclappers like “You Don’t Own Me” much more cadence than before.

If you want your Sunset Strip Hard rock done right, "Vegas Must Die!" is a must for the hair metal fan living in the modern day.

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