V-PROJECT
"New Machine" (DMV; 2008)
Reviewed by Metal Mark
David Vaccaro played all of the guitars, bass and keyboards here, as well as programmed the drum machine, and he sang on about half of the tracks. Not completely a one man show though, as he also brought in Robin McAuley (MSG, Survivor) to sing on the other songs. This is blues-based hard rock with a heavy Aerosmith influence from both the late 1970s and the late 1980s plus some Zeppelin style grooves as well.
Robin McAuley was a good choice for this style of material and I have always enjoyed his vocals on the many projects that he has been part of. Vaccaro likely grew up on equal doses of hard rock and AOR because those are the predominant styles here. There are times where Vaccaro could have opened things up and taken a few more chances. However, there are far more times where hearing the songs is like slipping on a pair of old comfortable shows. On several occasions, the songs touch upon a familiar yet pleasing approach.
Perhaps Vaccaro did these songs as much for himself as did for fans, but that's okay too. At least he tackled a style he obviously loved and that shows through in much of the material.
Two of my favorite songs are the middle-eastern influenced "You Don't Care" and the instrumental "Desert Run" and both make some attempt at reaching out and trying break format a little bit.
"New Machine" is really a solid release and obviously a labor of love from Dave Vaccaro.
For more information, check out http://www.myspace.com/vprojectband.
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 © 2008 by R.
Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised:
14 Jun 2020 15:11:01 -0400 .
