I have never been completely enamored with SIXX:AM. I
thought that their first album was too whiny, tainted with themes about feeling
sorry for drug abusers. I understand the struggle more than most, but I don’t
have much empathy for the “feel sorry for me” crowd. On their second album, This Is Gonna Hurt, SIXX:AM tried to
discover their identity, but missed the mark. And while that disc contains one
of the greatest hard rock songs I’ve ever heard, “Lies Of The Beautiful
People,” overall the album was subpar. So why on Earth would I want to get their
latest record, Modern Vintage?
Simply put, Metal Eddie convinced me to attend their
concert at the Starland Ballroom and I wanted to familiarize myself with their
new material. I don’t like to attend concerts and not know a majority of the
songs, so I took a chance. I am certainly glad that I did. Modern Vintage is the album that finds this band hitting their
stride. It is certainly the best record they released by far, and while it
contains one or two less than stellar tracks, the work as a whole is
exceptional.
Lead track “Stars” is a modern rocker filled with
exceptional guitar riffs from the extremely talented, but highly underrated, DJ
Ashba. James Michael’s voice is strong and powerful adding depth to the song.
And the lyrics are typical of Nikki Sixx, whose strongest suit has always been
his ability to write song lyrics. Sixx is one of the best songwriters in the industry,
and that talent shines on Modern Vintage.
Other notable tracks include “Gotta Get It Right,” an 80s
metal influenced track complete with a rock scream to open, and a chant along
chorus, “Hyperventilate,” a fast moving,
funk riffed, fun filled tune, and “High On The Music,” showcasing Sixx’s talent
with words once again.
SIXX: AM also tried something completely different with
their cover of the classic Cars song, “Drive.” And while I personally feel they
failed in their effort to reinterpret this fine song, I have a feeling it will
be a big hit for the band. It can be very challenging to remake such a classic
song. I commend the band for taking on the challenge and trying something
different, but their version of “Drive” fell short in my opinion. Perhaps in
time it will grow on me, but after a few listens, it’s just not there yet.
Overall, Modern
Vintage, is a terrific album and definitely the finest work released by
this band to date. A combination of classic rock, hair metal, and modern edge, Modern Vintage is appropriately named.
The album combines the right amount of classic and new elements and proves that
Sixx will have a great life after Motley Crue. If you’re looking for a hard
rock record to kick off your spring, get yourself a copy of Modern Vintage. It’s the perfect
soundtrack for a long road trip to anywhere.
Ryo’s Rating: 8 (out of 10)
Tracklist
Stars
Gotta Get It Right
Relief
Get Ya Some
Let’s Go
Drive
Give Me A Love
Hyperventilate
High On The Music
Miracle
Before It’s Over
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