Album review: BLACKRAIN – Dying Breed

September 1st, 2019 by jason

Steamhammer/SPV [Release date 13.09.19]

“Dying Breed” is the sixth album from French band Blackrain, and really is an album of two parts for me. The first five songs are sleazy rock that, although it lacks that Scandinavian feel it can still give it a run for its money, no doubt in part down to Swedish producer Chris Laney. That sleazy sound does give way to a more Euro rock feel later on though.

There is a consistency throughout the album as the band do not let up on catchy hooks, big choruses, and it has to be said, track after track of excellent guitar work from Max 2. Tracks “Dying Breed”, “Hellfire” and “Blast Me Up” are all good examples of this, with “Hellfire” reminding me a bit of Ratt. “We Are The Mayhem” has a feeling of Ratt meets early Bon Jovi, whilst Swan Hellions vocals are reminiscent of W.A.S.P. mainman Blackie Lawless here and there.

“All Angels Have Gone” is the albums ballad, complete with added synth, while at the other end of the scale the heaviest moments on “Dying Breed” come courtesy of “Public Enemy”. “Rock Radio” is a track that some people will write off as a bit cheesy and Euro pop/rock like, others will love the hands in the air Meatloafness of it all, and the album closes out with the big chorus Euro Rock of “A Call From The Inside”.

Blackrain certainly won’t lose any of their fan base with this latest effort, in fact, I would have money on Planet Rock and the likes playing more than one of the tracks off the album over the next few months. ***

Review by Nikk Gunns

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