By: Jesse Striewski
This assembly of some of rock’s most elite members (featuring Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, and even the one and only Johnny Depp) further proves the Hollywood Vampires are not simply another throwaway project. Surprisingly, the most sub-par thing found here on their second effort is just the unfortunate album cover design.
The interesting thing about these guys is their sound doesn’t sway in just one direction, but rather showcases all of it’s members many influences equally. “I Want My Now” kicks things off purposefully, while heavy-Alice inspired tracks like “Who’s Laughing Now,” “We Gotta Rise,” and “Mr. Spider” all lead the charge.
A handful of surprising covers also make their way in; Johnny Thunders’ “You Can’t Put Your Arms Around a Memory” and the Jim Carroll Band’s “People Who Died” are worthy entries, while their take on David Bowie’s “Heroes” is slightly less exciting. All in all, Rise is one of the better albums to be released so far this year.
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
