Surely everyone has heard of Impellitteri, even if they haven’t heard their music. Formed all the way back in 1987 by Chris Impellitteri (guitars) and singer Rob Rock, the band have had quite a few members over the years with Impellitteri being the only constant, with Rock leaving and returning a few times (although he has been back permanently since 2008), and bassist James Pulli having been there since 1992. I did do a double take when I realised who the drummer was, and it is no wonder the bottom end is so grounded as it is none other than the mighty Paul Bostaph (Slayer, Testament, Forbidden, Exodus et al) who joined in 2024.
This is the first studio album in six years, and there is no doubt that what we have here is full-blown metal taking us back to the days of Dio-era Sabbath, except with a full-blown shredder in the mix. Chris has always been recognised as one of the fastest guitarists in the business and here he proves that time and again, but unlike some he does it when the time is right to add something to the song as opposed to letting his ego run rampant, like others I could mention. The result is a high-octane metal album which is coming to us straight from the Eighties without ever falling into the “trap” of thrash or death metal, but it is also largely forgettable. There is no doubt that while it is being played there are plenty of smiles and nods, but also there is little here to make the listener truly want to play it again, which is an issue. I am sure they will be a fun band to go and see, and this is their 12th album so there is plenty of material, and with musicians who have been playing together for so long they will be tight as hell, especially with Bostaph taking control at the back, but while I enjoyed this while it was on this will be the last time I hear it.
Rating: 6/10
