AXEL RUDI PELL: Lost Xxiii (MELODIC METAL): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Those who complain that Iron Maiden or AC/DC always offer the same album would have no shortage of qualifiers to judge the case of Axel Rudi Pell. The German guitarist has never deviated from his path in over thirty years of career and twenty albums. After a "Sign Of The Times" which was more interesting and a cover album, "Diamonds Unlocked", he is back with "Lost XXIII".

After a classic epic intro the album starts with 'Survive' which launches the hostilities with a catchy melodic speed tone, an efficient chorus in a nice 80's spirit not far from Michael Schenker. With 'No Compromise' and 'Down On The Streets' we find a hard rock tone carried by the rocky voice of a Johnny Gioeli in great shape. The tracks are fresh and direct, the choruses well constructed and the soli are close to the spirit of a Ritchie Blackmore.

With 'Gone With Wind' Axel Rudy Pell proposes a long ballad tinged with blues. Carried by a soft and pleasant melody, the title is full of emotions and proposes a long instrumental break all in feeling. We will highlight 'Follow The Beast' and its heavy tone as well as the instrumental 'The Rise Of Ankhoor' which allows each musician to shine in a style close to Deep Purple. With 'Lost XXIII' the band offers a convoluted epic track, full of moments of guitar bravura and carried by a powerful vocal, the whole evoking with class the Rainbow era "Stargazer". Some failures are nevertheless to be deplored as 'Freight Train', title of generic hard rock certainly well realized even quickly forgotten or the dispensable ballad 'Fly With Me', a nice title with piano but too often heard.

These critics do not question the quality of "Lost XXIII". Axel Rudi Pell does not reinvent himself but he still excels in melodic heavy metal. With this album he should delight the numerous fans of the genre. - Official website

AXEL RUDI PELL

LOST XXIII

SPV STEAMHAMMER

MELODIC METAL