UK band SUPERFECTA was formed back in 2011, and following an initial demo single they settled down to create their debut album “Primal Instinct”. This self-released production, which appeared towards the end of 2014, is their sole release to date.

Hard rock and what some may describe as heavy metal is what this British band provides us with, and it would appear that they looking over to the other side of the Atlantic ocean for the main parts of their inspiration judging from the songs on their debut album. Grunge and alternative rock being expressions that fairly often comes to mind.

Those fond of classic grunge as explored by the seminal Seattle-based bands that rose to fame and fortune in the early 90’s won’t get too much out of this album however, as the grunge-oriented material here is one closer aligned to what other bands I have come across that are directly or indirectly inspired by grunge have explored. Grunge one step removed perhaps, or as explored in a more contemporary context. The songs are less haunting, less dark, and lacking the elements of despair, anger and emotional distress that to my mind defined the original grunge bands. Superfecta is the toned down, melodic oriented aspect of grunge that developed at a later stage, and then combined with material of a more generic later day hard rock and alternative rock manner at that. Compelling riffs, flowing guitar solo runs, clear and well controlled lead vocals and, first and foremost in the case of opening cut She’s a Star, quality backing vocals adding an effective emotional impact.

Much of this album contains what I’d describe as radio friendly hard rock. With the dark toned, circulating grunge tendencies in place on many but not all occasions, but toned and tweaked by accident or design to have a strong FM radio sensibility. This is a band that due to this aspect of their sound and material should have a strong and wide reach. Their main challenge to overcome to actually explore that potential in this day and age will probably be exposure. With new bands and new albums here, there and everywhere this aspect of creating a career is more difficult than ever. But I digress.

Those fond of well made, melodic hard rock with a foot and a half inside a grunge-oriented sound and style, with a distinct mainstream-oriented, FM radio touch to their material, should find this debut album by UK band Superfecta to be one well worth giving a shot.

My rating: 72/100

—

Track list:
She’s a Star; Emotional Miracle; Inside; Driven; Paradox; Primal Instinct; Fading Light; Fallen Angel; To Live Again; Pendulum