PRIESTESS
"Hello
Master" (RCA; 2006)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Priestess's "Hello Master" is great record for those who love the classic metal of the late 70s and early 80s. Fans of the melodic hard rock that permeated the airwaves in those days -- on albums like KISS's "Love Gun," Judas Priest's "British Steel" and Twisted Sister's "You Can't Stop Rock and Roll" -- will find this CD irresistible.
Sharp-edged but chunky guitars, singable choruses and guitar solos you can hum along with make "Hello Master" a listening experience that isn't loaded with the speedy noise that makes up so much of today's metal. Instead, the CD will bring to mind the days when KISS's "Calling Dr. Love" was played on AM stations and Top 40 Radio Countdowns across the nation.
Boosting the entire CD is the band's tangible energy, which bursts forth from "Hello Master" like a pit bull on a short leash, giving fans of a more modern sound something to sink their teeth into as well.
"Hello Master" isn't a perfect CD, flowing somewhat unevenly at times due to its grab bag mix of vintage rock, stoner-like grooves and new wave rhythms ("Time Will Cut You Down" sounds a lot like something from The Cars' earlier CDs). Still, it's strong enough throughout to hold any hard rock fan's attention.
For more information, check out http://www.priestessband.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.
Copyright © 2006 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
