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DRIVER
www.robrock.com
Originally formed in the late eighties and known as M.A.R.S., the band resurrected themselves as Driver in 2008 with the release of the ‘Sons of Thunder’. The line-up from that release has endured for this recording and consists of vocalist Rob Rock, guitarist Roy Z (who is well known for his work with Bruce Dickinson), Ed Roth on keys and the rhythm section of drummer Reynold Carlson and bassist Aaron Samson. The album kicks off with a triumvirate of really strong songs; ‘Return To The Sky’, ‘Rising Son’ and the title track are full of power and melody, are well constructed and have an epic feel to them, as if classic 70s and 80s metal has been brought up to date with a contemporary touch. ‘Hollywood Shooting Star’ follows and, despite the rather naff title, is another good track with a somewhat surprising thrash style intro. The next cut is ‘Thief InThe Night’ and this is a really excellent track, from its storming intro to its climax. It has just the right balance of light and shade with an immense riff running through the backbone of the song. The remainder of the songs follow in pretty much the same vein. There a couple of balladesque songs, ‘Always On My Mind’ and ‘Destiny’ but even these are powerful, with a definite metallic edge. Overall, this is a very strong release. There isn’t a track on this album where you think the band are going through the motions. Each cut has earnt its place in the running order on merit and, as such, what you are left with is an excellent record and one I would recommend.
LABEL:
FORMAT:
Metal Heaven
Album
COUNTDOWN
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Review by Dave Uphill
RUNNING TIME:
49:48
RELEASE DATE:
28th May 2012
TRACK LISTING
1) Return to the Sky
2) Rising Son
3) Countdown
4) Hollywood Shooting Star
5) Thief in the Night
6) Cry of the Wounded
7) Always on My Mind
8) Feel the Fire
9) Destiny
10) Running from the Darkness
11) Babylon
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:
USA
"...classic 70s and 80s metal has been brought up to date with a contemporary touch."
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