EP review: AXMINSTER – Mad Hatters

Website [Release date 25.07.25]

Axminster first started out in 1983 – then known as Axminster Molly – and they were indeed named after the carpet/rug manufacturer based in the UK town of the same name! Only vocalist/guitarist Steve Sera remains from the original line-up and he is joined by drummer Xanon Xicay, bassist Danny Callan and guitarist Benny Fiorentino.

Although Axminster picked-up some rave reviews and supported the likes of a fledgling Metallica back in the day, they were one of many bands from the 1980’s that never seemed to get that next big break and broke-up in 1986. Fast forward a few years(!) and Axminster have released a couple of EPs since returning in 2020, bringing us to this EP, ‘Mad Hatters’.

The very topical ‘World Gone Crazy’ starts the EP off in a flurry of guitars before the vocals of Steve Sara kick in. After a few spins his gritty vocals are reminiscent of say Sammy Hagar or Y&T’s Dave Meniketti. ‘Rat Race’ is another satisfying rocker. The guitars throughout the EP have a great 80’s hard rock feel.

‘Down to the Wire’ is a tad more bluesy in an Aerosmith meets Tesla vein. ‘Ya Monkey’ is the one song where that Sammy Hagar vibe really comes to mind.

Axminster may never have made the big time back in the 80’s, however, they are certainly enjoying music more now and this EP is a fine addition to the collection of any fan of the likes of Y&T, Sammy Hagar in his 1980’s prime and straight ahead hard rock. Nice. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

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