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Music Reviews:

I missed this band. If you are looking for a metal/hard rock band that is melodic, rocks hard and has a fresh sound then you must seek out KICK AXE IV. Hailing from Canada these guys bring an intricately layered thinking man’s rock approach."Right Now" brings Kick Axe back with authority. Their musicality is strong and done with a mature touch (I don’t mean soft). What I mean is that the two guitar players (Larry Gillstrom & Raymond Harvey) never try to overplay the song, but they work individually to create distorted feedback, choppy riffs and then join together at other moments.

I love "Consolation." It is an emotionally moving track talking about carrying on after losing a loved one. Any person can relate to this moving tune. The guitar parts are played almost like another voice and have a lasting effect. Brian Gillstrom’s drum and percussion work really helps punctuate what the band wants you to feel. Victor Langen beefs up this song with his bass.

Gary Langen’s voice sounds a bit like fellow Canadian rocker Rick Emmett (Triumph) on "Turn To Stone." Real nice background vocals and interplay between guitarists in "Do You Know." It’s easy to fall into the deep groove of "Who Knows Ya." I like the intro/end to "Woe" which feels like the band was practicing before doing the track then decided to use it even with rough edges. Great choice Kick Axe.

As a band Kick Axe provide powerful background vocals (all members sing back-up vocals), which help amplify their music. "Time" is an example of this. It seems like different members of the band take turns singing "Slip Inside My Dream" but it’s just Gary Langen using his voice differently. Larry Gillstrom & Raymond Harvey feed off each other’s guitar style in "Who Says." The guitar riff in "Rock ‘N’ Roll Dog" is carries the tune.

Beautiful guitar opens "Black Heart." For some reason "City Lights" reminded me of Led Zeppelin. Gary Langen, Larry Gillstrom, Raymond Harvey, Brian Gillstrom and Victor Langen finish strong with "Only Ones Here." This is a band that needs and deserves your support.

www.kickaxe.net

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