It's definitely a good album, but the Maiden/Priest influence is just too much for me. 40 Deuces is basically a "reference" to Desert Plains by Judas... they're simply a clone, nothing more. it's sad because these guys know how to write some damn catchy songs, only they get carried away trying to sound like <insert Priest/Maiden album here>

I've not heard the CD, but have basically heard the whole album live - and some songs live twice...
Like I said in my Edguy review, these guys are the perfect example of a band purposefully playing a style of music as opposed to their own music.

I know I should hate this band for being unabashedly unoriginal, and using every 80's heavy metal cliche, but I can't. Their songs are way too catchy with a feel good, light hearted atmosphere that I adore.

Written by Harlequin Devon on 23.05.2010 at 08:32

I know I should hate this band for being unabashedly unoriginal, and using every 80's heavy metal cliche, but I can't. Their songs are way too catchy with a feel good, light hearted atmosphere that I adore.

the only song i can stand by them anymore is High Speed GTO, that imo is both their most original and best song, it sounds really old-school NWOBHM but also quite modern with the whole verse-chorus transition. it's also pretty fucking good

Talk of a shit band

Not anything new whatsoever, but its fun, and that counts for something.

Written by Harlequin Devon on 23.05.2010 at 08:32

I know I should hate this band for being unabashedly unoriginal, and using every 80's heavy metal cliche, but I can't. Their songs are way too catchy with a feel good, light hearted atmosphere that I adore.

Well said man, I like those exact things about them as well.

At the best moments the album's material is really good (the title track, Live Free Or Die, Strike Of The Viper, White Wizzard). Then there's also some bad and full cliche songwriting. In overall I'd say the album leaves rather a positive than a negative feeling. The cover songs are pretty good as well, classic choices.