Max Boogie Overdrive
Stoned Again
**and1/2 out of *****
The debut record from L.A. based hard rockers Max Boogie Overdrive is an ode to the smoke filled '70's heavy metal the band loves, as Stoned Again stomps out of speakers. From the album title and the retro cover art (that probably works under a black light) you know what the band is shooting for, and they deliver.
The group is comprised of Los Angeles music veterans who wanted to rehash their love of acts like Fu Manchu, Orange Goblin and UFO as they light up and rock out. Guitarist Max Boogie a.k.a. Jim Bacchi (Hittman, Fuzzbubble, The Tikiyaki Orchestra) and Drop Dee a.k.a. Daren Ford (Red Square Black, Ravine, The Generals) are joined by drummer Tom ʻKnucklesʼ Hernandez (Lords of Altamont, Superbeez) and guitarist Richard ʻRCʼ Clark to comprise the retro rocking outfit.
The fuzz drenched opener "The Devil Knows My Name" sets the tone with it's cut-off sleeved, denim vest attitude and swirling guitar effects leading the way. The heavy galloping "Suffer Sister" is an album highlight as the band give a direct lyrical shoutout to another inspiration Black Sabbath as the group churns and bubbles.
Less successful is the slower paced "Freakazoid", which contains a cool guitar center piece, but is dragged out too long. "Van Boogie" also never hits the gas properly, but much better is "Bomb Incoming" which uses catchy riffs, a cool groove, unique percussion, a ripping solo and "woah oh" backing vocals; a winner.
While the band flirts with heavy stoner rock they seem more at ease with swaggering efforts that recall KISS such as "Demonaire". The extended, theatrical "King of Fire" could be a sound track to an 80's horror flick with rumbling drums and ascending guitars, while the title track, album closer, pulls it all together for the group. The closer combines shifting tempos, chunky riffs, some sweeter glam rock tendencies, and a swirling psychedelic ending (complete with pump fake) as the band cruise into the West Coast sunset.
Max Boogie Overdrive are just lighting up and honoring the metal heads they love on Stoned Again, never harshing the vibe, as they rock out.
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