LAGUNA: The Ghost Of Katrina (HARD ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Laguna hails from northern Mexico, specifically from the arid desert of Torreón in the state of Coahuila. No need to rack your brains trying to remember them, this is truly their first attempt. Indeed, “The Ghost Of Katrina” hits the playlists without any demos or EPs to prepare us for this new combo's offering.

The surprise is all the greater because the album sounds like the releases of melodic hard rock bands from the north, and seems to have been put together by old hands who know the ropes. However, one detail could have tipped us off: the presence of a certain Jimmy Westerlund as co-writer and producer. He is the Finnish musician to whom One Desire and Brother Firetribe owe a debt of gratitude. Although he is the guitarist for the former, he does not play here, as all the musicians are Mexican.

On this album, we are treated to classy, melodic hard rock that leans towards One Desire on most tracks, although Brother Firetribe and H.E.A.T. (notably on “Leaving On A Line”) sometimes make an appearance. The sound, reinforced by crystal-clear production, is powerful, and the melodies are thrilling and emotionally charged. In this regard, the prize goes to “Ghost Behind The Mask” and its elegant saxophone, which delivers a truly memorable chorus. At times bordering on Scandinavian pop (the haunting ‘Wildfire’), Laguna also knows how to invoke the metal gods by beefing up its lyrics without hesitation (“Punk Boy” and “Electric High”).

“The Ghost Of Katrina” is an astonishing album. Perfectly accomplished, it presents a new band that surprisingly displays the expertise of a seasoned band. The surprise of the summer is therefore Mexican, and should not be missed by fans of melodic hard rock. - Official website

LAGUNA

THE GHOST OF KATRINA

FRONTIERS RECORDS

HARD ROCK