VIXEN
"The
Works" (Pyram-Axis Records; 2003)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
This band isn't the legendary all-female heavy metal band but rather another band out of Hawaii featuring the equally legendary Kim La Chance and Marty Friedman.
"The Works" is a collection of vintage Vixen tunes, including the complete "Made in Hawaii" sessions and seven previously unreleased tracks. The entire CD has been completely, crisply re-mastered and is available on CD for the first time.
I know what you're thinking. "Yeah, sounds cool. But is vintage Vixen really worth my time?"
The answer is a resounding yes! Although some of the songs on "The Works" do show their age, all 13 tracks are solid rockers and still carry quite a punch thanks to the brilliant fretwork of former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman. Friedman's fiery style blasts through this release and gives "The Works" a furious charisma that will appeal to the ears of any metal fan.
Vixen fans in particular, however, will love the gems contained on this CD. "The Works" contains both original and re-worked versions of "Angels From the Dust" and "Living in Sin," a rocking cover of The Animals' "House of the Rising Sun" and - available in its complete form for the first time ever - the full version of "New Age Rock'n'Roller."
Fans of Megadeth and Marty Friedman's solo work will also want to pick up "The Works" because it features some simply stunning work by the guitarist.
VIXEN: Kim La Chance (vocals); Marty Friedman (guitar); Paul Escorpeso (bass); Kimo (bass); Jeff Graves (drums).
For more information, check out http://www.pyramaxis.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 © 2005 by R. Scott Bolton. All
rights reserved.
Revised: 16 Sep 2024 12:51:58 -0400
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