ROCKA ROLLAS - Metal Strikes Back
December 11, 2013, 10 years ago
(Stormspell)
This is the second disc from a Swedish “outfit” that’s also behind other Stormspell acts, mimicking better known outfits with original compositions. Actually ROCKA ROLLAS are just a studio project by Ced, who does all the instruments, and only recently acquired a new singer, with thoughts of maybe finally doing a live gig. Few tribute bands (playing covers) sound as sweet! Given the moniker, JUDAS PRIEST is an obvious starting point, but unlike BLAZON STONE (one of Ced’s other ventures), they ape only a couple of the Brits’ tracks. Speedy, twin guitar leads are the sound throughout, a mix of power metal and 80s proto-thrash. ‘Weaponizer’ opts for Painkiller-era intensity, while ‘Raging Cyborg’ sounds like something missing from Unleashed In The East, down to the Tipton-Downing interplay. ‘Metalive’ cuts awfully close to VICIOUS RUMORS’ ‘Soldiers Of The Night’, while the sing-along title track is a double bass driven gallop. The closing ‘Swords Raised In Victory’ not only has a different sonic feel (as if from a disconnected recording session) but the sword & sorcery lyrical angle is a amiss. Minor complaint from an otherwise enjoyable step back into yesteryear.
