It's been a whirlwind week in the world of classic rock, and our latest Tracks of the Week tournament has brought an exciting array of new releases and rising stars to the forefront. The winner of the week is Crossbone Skully, a Def Leppard-inspired band led by the legendary Alice Cooper guitarist, Tommy Henriksen. Their triumph is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rock, and it's a pleasure to see them join the ranks of the greats. Congrats to Crossbone Skully and their bandmate, Phil Collen, who joined them on the victory parade, adding to the excitement of their success. But the competition was fierce, and Jack J Hutchinson's 'Rise Again' emerged as a strong contender, securing the minor medals. Now, we shift our focus to the eight new candidates vying for Tracks of the Week Hall of Fame status. Let's dive into the week's highlights and discover the diverse sounds that have caught our attention.
Green Lung - Black Magick Radio
Green Lung, a gothy London rock band, invites us to embark on a journey through their forthcoming album, 'Necropolitan'. 'Black Magick Radio' is a love letter to occult rock, blending monstrous riffs with '70s living room furniture aesthetics. The band's enthusiasm is palpable, and their promise to spread the gospel of occult rock is one we eagerly anticipate. The video, a kaleidoscope of cultish mischief, further enhances the song's allure, making it a must-listen for any rock enthusiast.
Spiders - Creature of the Night
Spiders, a Swedish rock 'n' roll band, captivates with their nostalgic 'Creature of the Night'. The song's toe-tapping verse riff and Blondie-inspired chorus melody create an infectious energy. Written about a destructive yet irresistible being, the track showcases Spiders' ability to blend raw, glitter-infused rock with a touch of 60s/70s psychedelia. It's a delightful surprise, leaving us eager for their upcoming album, 'Crystal Eyes'.
Royal Blood - Ten Over Ten
Royal Blood, the dynamic duo of Mike Kerr and Ben Thatcher, returns with a heavy and pummelling track, 'Ten Over Ten'. This new release is a testament to their evolution, as they've been building up the revs and playing faster and harder than ever before. The song showcases their signature blend of heavy riffs and light-footedness, setting the stage for their upcoming album, 'Dead Company'. With the stage as their muse, Royal Blood is poised to deliver an unforgettable live experience.
Castle Rat - Dragon
Castle Rat, a New York doom metal band, delivers a medieval fantasy-inspired single, 'Dragon'. The song's title is a nod to their heavy boot in the medieval fantasy camp, where swords and chainmail are not just fashion choices but a way of life. The track fuses Sabbathian sludge with 60s/70s psychedelia, elevated by Riley 'The Rat Queen' Pinkerton's captivating vocals. 'Dragon' is a riff-filled escapism anthem, providing the perfect antidote to the lingering heatwave blues.
Sari Schorr - Mr. In the Middle
Sari Schorr, a contemporary blues six-stringer, showcases her prowess in 'Mr. In the Middle'. The song kicks off with a killer lead guitar blast, reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughan. Schorr's powerful vocals and slickened blues rock style create a captivating listening experience. The guitar solo is a highlight, adding to the song's overall appeal, making it a standout track in the blues rock genre.
Battlesnake - Mud Apocalypse
Battlesnake, an Aussie ensemble, opts for a lo-fi alt rock approach with 'Mud Apocalypse'. The song is a ridiculous yet tight feast of blood-spurting, skull-crushing, and organ-squelching bravado. The down-tuned riffs, Queen-glittered twin lead guitars, and metal-studded swashbuckling are a testament to their unique sound. The unexpected horse neighing adds a whimsical touch, making it a memorable and entertaining track.
These Wicked Rivers - Sing Another Song (feat. Kezia Gill)
These Wicked Rivers, a Derbyshire-based country rock 'n' roll band, presents 'Sing Another Song' with guest co-vocalist Kezia Gill. The song's dulcet, countrified sway and gospelly backnotes create a heart-warming atmosphere. The harmonies between Kezia and John Hartwell's rough-crooned vocals add a layer of warmth and sweetness, making it the perfect companion for a morning cuppa.
The Sixsters - Can You Believe It
The Sixsters, an all-female Ukrainian rock band, relocated to Essen, Germany, after the 2022 Russian invasion. Their song, 'Can You Believe It', is a vibrant mix of punk rock and pop rock, infused with the band's unique energy. The track's effervescent nature and the band's history of resilience make it a powerful and uplifting listen, leaving a lasting impression.
In conclusion, this week's Tracks of the Week showcase the diverse and exciting landscape of classic rock. From the Def Leppard-inspired Crossbone Skully to the medieval fantasy-inspired Castle Rat, each track offers a unique listening experience. As Polly, the deputy editor of Classic Rock magazine, notes, these songs are a testament to the enduring appeal of rock music, and they continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
