By: Robert Cavuoto
Primal Rock Rebellion is the brainchild of Adrian Smith, guitarist for the legendary Iron Maiden and vocalist/spoken word maestro Mikee Goodman of SikTh. These two U.K. musicians from different musical backgrounds come together to form an explosive and powerfully heavy CD, rich in dynamic guitar and epic storytelling.
Their CD, Awoken Broken, is the amalgamation of heavy metal, progressive rock, and spoken word. Adrian takes on all the guitar and bass duties to provide kick ass riffs with rhythmic change-ups that rival anything he has done in Maiden. The lyrics are dark and malevolent, sung in a sinister and evil manner that brings each song to life. Think Rob Zombie on steroids
Though they don’t sound like Iron Maiden, there are elements of them within many of the songs, from the big choruses to Adrian’s signature style of playing, most noticeable on the leads, lead-fills and breaks. The sonic quality of this CD will kick you in the teeth from the searing guitar on the opening track of “No Friendly Neighbour” straight through to the hauntingly melodic “Mirrors and the Moon”.
Stand out tracks are “No Place Like Home”, “Savage World” and Tortured Tone”. These are groove-oriented songs, laced with memorable guitar riffs and hooky choruses. Adrian is at the top of his game and turns in a stellar performance, that you would expect from a player of his caliber.
Mikee’s lyrics are thought provoking and intriguing, making you question whether he is a prophet or a madman. His vocal range is exceptional. Adrian and Mikee truly complement one another’s unique styles and draw out the best from each other.
For me, A woken Broken is an awesome album. The CD has more twists and turns than a roller coaster ride through the depths of Hell.
Tracks
1. No Friendly Neighbour 4.53
2. No Place Like Home 3.06
3. I See Lights 4.59
4. Bright As A Fire 6.21
5. Savage World 3.38
6. Tortured Tone 5.08
7. White Sheet Robes 5.16
8. As Tears Come Falling From The Sky 0.47
9. Awoken Broken 4.58
10. Search For Bliss 4.13
11. Snake Ladders 4.43
12. Mirror and the Moon 5.04
