Since I interviewed Robert Berry (3, plus many others) earlier in the year, we have been in contact quite a lot, but it is always through Messenger. So when he asked me for my email address one day, I wondered who was going to be getting in touch with me. The mystery was soon solved when Teddy Clemente dropped me a line, he and Robert had just been working together on his third album and had suggested that he get in touch. A short while later and this CD arrived in the mail, and even before playing it I was already intrigued. Robert not only co-wrote and co-produced the album with Teddy, he also provides bass, keyboards, guitars and back-up vocals, and sat behind the drum kit was none other than David Lauser, who I will always associate with the mighty Sammy Hagar and albums such as ‘Standing Hampton’. David and Robert also play together in December People, a band that plays at Christmas to raise money for charity. Teddy provides guitar and backing vocals, while lead vocals are by Amanda Dieck. So what is it like?
Apparently, ‘Man Machine’ is the third concept album from Teddy Clemente following how technology has changed the world and the dehumanizing effect it has on the working class. Clemente believes that corporations and governments are full of greed and don’t concern themselves with the consequences of their actions. This is the third chapter of a story that started in the earlier albums ‘Illusions’ and ‘Lost In Time’.
Musically this is solidly set in American rock from the Seventies and Eighties, very guitar-based with strong drums. With Robert and David providing all the support he could ever need, Teddy is able to play with swagger and panache, either staying with the riff or providing counter melody or solos as the need arises. There is total confidence in how the music is being portrayed, and it is no surprise to hear that they have played at Cambridge Rock Festival multiple times. Then at the front of Amanda Dieck, who is a real find. She can be soulful like Maggie Bell, providing the emotion, or be and out and out rocker like Doro, taking it all in her stride. Although she never hits the high soprano notes, she also reminds me of Floor Jansen, and yet again there is total confidence in what she is doing. This confidence, combined with the musicianship and great songs, makes for a classic rock album which is a real delight. For any lover of this style of music, then this is essential.
Rating: 8/10
Links:
https://www.tclemente.com/
