Rough Edge: Randy Piper's Animal CD Reviews

RANDY PIPER'S ANIMAL

"Virus" (Locomotive; 2008)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

Randy Piper is best known, of course, for his guitar work in the early days of W.A.S.P. Piper's raw yet melodic riffs gave that band much of their power at that formative time. Fans of W.A.S.P.'s sound and style during that era will find no fault with "Virus."

"Virus" is ten tracks of unapologetic 80s metal, complete with driving guitar riffs, singalong songwriting and lyrics that range from kinda cheesy to rock anthem perfection. Vocalist Rich Lewis has a clearer voice than W.A.S.P.'s Blackie Lawless, but it's easy to imagine Blackie singing many of these tracks due to the songwriting style. Piper's guitars shine throughout, driving each song along with a melodic roar.

A gritty glam cover of the Cranberries' "Zombie" is a surprising highlight, with the band making the song their own here.

Bottom line: "Virus" is a solid hard rock album that delivers exactly what fans of the early days of W.A.S.P., or other metal bands of that era, might be looking for.

Randy Piper's Animal: Randy Piper; Johan Koleberg; Rich Lewis; Nalle "Grizzly" Påhlsson; Chris Laney.

For more information, check out http://www.animalcave.net.

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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