Italian band SMALL JACKETS was formed back in 2000, and since they released their debut album in 2004 a total of four full length albums have been assembled by this quartet. “IV” is the most recent of these, and was issued through Swedish label Transubstans Records in the spring of 2013.

And this is an album that kicks off in a highly promising manner. Following a brief blazing introduction AC/DC style we’re treated to Ball’n Chain, an easygoing hard rock affair of the kind that would have been right at home on any of Ted Nugent’s mid 70’s albums, and the type of song he hasn’t managed to craft for himself since. A beautiful specimen of it’s kind, and sadly the only one made up in this specific manner on this disc.

More distinct boogie based hard rock closer to the likes of Ram Jam follows for the next few tracks, high blazing, scorching and energetic affairs all, with a charming romp through various steroid-laced country styled solo runs on Trouble Blues as a charming detail that sets this piece ever so slightly apart. Heard It On the X keeps us in boogie mode, now with plenty of slide guitars as Small jackets blaze through this ZZ Top classic.

From Wanderlust and onwards the intensity lessens a bit, and the songs take on a character somewhat closer to the likes of Free. Liberally flavored with mannerisms from other artists, with possible traces of aforementioned Ram Jam on Wanderlust, Black Sabbath on Hellraiser, Robin Trower on Mama Said and Ram Jam again on final track The Wall of Sound. All of these personal associations mind you, based on what my memory bands were able to track down while inspecting this production.

Be that as it may be, but if you’re in the mood for some good time, high energy and boogie oriented hard rock with a firm stylistic foundation in the 1970’s, Small Jackets have made an album that will suit your taste with “IV”. Especially for those who enjoy artists like Ram Jam, The Free and The Nuge.

My rating: 82/100