Red's Cool - Bad Story

I have heard quite a bit of Russian music over the years, although admittedly most of that has been progressive music of one form or another, and it all contains a certain flavour that lets one know exactly where it has come from. But, if I was asked to pick a country based solely on the sound of this album and nothing else then I would have probably gone for the States, with the UK being second choice but pretty convinced that it was the former as it has some classy vocals that I associate more with America. But, these guys state that they are “a Russian hard rock band from St. Petersburg. We play classic hard rock with modern interpretation, turning to blues and art rock.” Classic hard rock hits the nail on the head, and although the vocals aren’t as bluesy as the master that is Paul Rodgers, this bands reminds me a lot of Seventies’ Bad Company, and that has to be a good thing in anyone’s book.

If someone were to ask me to pick faults with this I would say that I am not a fan of the band name, and the artwork for the album is awful and makes me think more of Dogs D’Amour than classic hard rock, but after that I would start to struggle, as this is just so damn listenable. Put it on, settle back, and just start to smile. I note that Michael Wagener mixed and mastered this and he has polished this to perfection. Also, they have been touring with Black Star Riders (ex-Thin Lizzy for those who missed their amazing album) and are soon to be out with UFO so they are getting in front of appreciative audiences. If you want classic hard rock with plenty of balls, just a hint of blues, and class and verve then this is for you.