Post by jptheprofessor on Jun 24, 2007 21:47:39 GMT -5
STEEL - HAMMERED (Diamond Plate Records) The four seasoned members of the Mechanicsburg-based band Steel; lead singer Chris Redding, bassist and chief lyricist Dave Magaro, guitarist Aaron Zimmerman and drummer Trevis Becker; developed their hard-rocking chops in previous bands such as Ashley Krump, Karetaker, Savage Bliss and Scary Mary. Not surprisingly on their debut CD, Hammered, Steel defines their musical turf as classic-styled hard rock and metal. Over Hammered's ten tracks, Steel proudly exposes their roots, crafting hard-hitting sounds in the 70's and 80's traditions of Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, UFO, Dokken and more. The group sounds competent on it all; they deliver driving party anthems like the rampaging Van Halen-ish boogie of "SNAFU" and "Face for Radio," plus the rowdy ode to a conniving femme fatale, "Black and Blue." Steel shows ample muscle on the Priest/Maiden-ish classic-flavored metal of "Tornado Alley," as well as detail and delicacy on power ballads like the riches to rags story "Thunder and Lightning" and the sullen "Sheer Emptiness." The group also rocks hard and tough on the mid-tempo anthems "Visions" and "Fading Memories" with their hints of UFO and Dokken. Steel displays stellar musicianship throughout the album, from Trevis' busy and explosive drum thunder to Aaron's frequent guitar solo fireworks; and bass fans will relish Dave's rapid fire low-end acrobatics on the 9-to-5 lifestyle commentary "Working Class Society." Chris demonstrates a strong, brassy voice through it all, frequently backed with solid two- and three-part harmonies. The performances are genuine and from a band that appreciates this vein of rock, not contrived or "retro" to be fashionable. Produced by Steel and recorded at Hunchback Studios and Right Coast Recording, Hammered sounds sharp and concise, with all elements of the group's attack coming through clear in the mix. Although the hard-rocking styles vary through the album's course, Steel's consistently sharp performances give the album cohesion. Hammered is a treat for anybody who misses 70's and 80's era hard rock and metal; from musicians who cut their teeth in this era, and respect its dynamics and tradition. (The CD can be obtained by visiting Steel's website, www.steelrocks.com.)