ONSLAUGHT “Power From Hell” (1985)

You know, even if I was a big Heavy Metal listener in the mid-late 80’s, it doesn’t mean I listened to them all.  We didn’t have Internet and I was living in a small village (300) near a small town (40000).  This week while listening to a classic Slayer record on Rdio I looked to the similar bands suggestions and clicked on Onslaught, which I only knew by name.  My very first reaction was, Wow! I really wish I knew this band in the 80’s! Totally my genre.  And further in the album I thought, this guy sings like someone I know very well.  Then it came to me.  Paul Mahoney sings like GBH singer Colin Abrahall!  In fact, Onslaught sounds like GBH but plays their instruments like a Thrash Metal band…or vice versa…you know what I mean?  Huge Punk influence, perfect blend of Thrash and Punk. Great record…btw!

LITA FORD "Living Like A Runaway" (2012)

First, I didn't had high expectation. Second, I was damn curious to hear her new album. She's a Rock chick. So here is my result; digging it! The cover art couldn't fit her better. Any fan has to love this album. I really think it's one of her best in her career. I mean, what can I say; this is good Hard Rock, good melodies and good guitar riffs. Here is an inspired Lita Ford.

My favorite tracks in order:

• Hate
• Living Like A Runaway
• Asylum
• Relentless
• A Song To Slit Your Wrist By

DIIV "Oshin" (2012)

Not being a fan of the three biggest new releases of the week (Linkin Park, Maroon 5 and The Offspring), I found my joy and relief in Diiv. If you like Dream Pop and the 80's Alternative music sound; this is for you (and me!). Dreamy echoish voice (a little like The Jesus and Mary Chain , the subtle bass and atmospheric guitar but don't expect some atmospheric album, there are some rhythm and upbeat songs...with a dreamy mood. The influence The Cure might had on them is undeniable!!! Liking this album very much.

My favorite tracks in order:

• Human
• Past Lifes
• Wait

DURUTTI COLUMN "Short Stories For Pauline" (1983 / 2012)

Well, it took 29 years for this mythical album to get released. The first half is made of ambient art-rock instrumentals tracks, which I really like. Second half mostly vocal. That is great news for the fans!

My favorite tracks in order:

• Duet
• Destroy, She Said
• Mirror B
• Cocktail

YELLO "You Gotta Say Yes To Another Excess" (1983)

"You gotta say yes to another excess" is my favorite album from this original swedish duo. They just know how to create cool tribal beats (Crash Dance, Great Mission), jazzy beats (Swing) and Synth-Pop coolness (I Love You). The innovation and the humour in their music makes them a unique pair. They influenced many artists like The Pet Shop Boys. "I Love You" with the modified voice of Boris Blank has been a hit in 80's alternative clubs and charts. My favorite is "Lost Again"; a Synth-Pop sensual jem. I absolutely love the hilarious "Great Mission" followed by "You Gotta Say Yes To Another Excess" with plenty of tribal beats and jungle sounds and of top of this, a very funny storyteller tells a jungle story, I can't help but smile when I hear the (lyrics) ...Father of excess that jumps out of the water of Amazons full of piranhas...; must hear. This is an album that is entirely excellent, no need to skip a song. If the Amazonian Forest would have an 80's Synth-Pop band, I wish it would sound like this!


Favorite tracks in order:

• Lost Again
• I Love You
• Smile On You
• Crash Dance