A blistering and uncompromising album of sleazy, sparkling Melodic Hard Rock.
Five years after their debut release, Pretty Wild have stuffed the eighties into twelve tight tracks, breathed into them a fresh life of infectious energy and sealed the lot with a slick production. Did you think Glam Metal was over?
'Let's Get It Out' is bright and flashy with marching band-esque drums and a melodic guitar singing out in the solo. Signs of early Crashdïet demos abound, especially in the hard-hitting riff and vocal harmonies of 'Meant For Trouble' but with more bubblegum and the glossy production Crashdïet brought to their full albums. The key change proves no trouble for the gliding vocals of Ivan Ivve Höglund who reaches the high notes with the same ease as Tony Mills. Shy are a good comparison throughout; 'Superman' is uplifting and punchy, and the shorter, tighter tracks certainly have the edge over the slightly longer songs. 'Wild And Free' is the closest to a ballad – not that the record is any worse off for it – with Axl Ludwig's guitar slicing 'n' dicing between a tight melody and soaring backing vocals.
'Give It All Tonight' and 'Stand My Ground' take the album to the next level. The former opens with gripping guitar, not far from the Scorpions' sound, and builds into a party anthem with feel-good vibes and tight melodic hooks. It's the energy of Reckless Love but sleazier, edgier and more anthemic. 'Stand My Ground' picks up the pace with Höglund's vocals soaring like Kenny Leckremo when he was in H.e.a.t yet without losing any of the punch. Further standouts include the added swagger of 'Shot Me Down', resplendent in its modern sound to make shiny Sleaze rather Glam.
Closer 'Break Down The Walls' isn't what you'd call heavy, although the riff is reminiscent of Sister Sin's early work which highlights the range of influences and sounds Pretty Wild cover in this sleazy but poppy release. After a successful debut, Pretty Wild show no signs of slowing down, and they have served up a blistering and uncompromising album of sleazy, sparkling Melodic Hard Rock.
Sophie Brownlee