An interesting and enjoyable debut album from a German three-piece who met in a pub in Upper Franconia ten years ago.

'Of Hard Bones And Travelled Hearts' is an interesting and enjoyable debut album from a German three-piece who met in a pub in Upper Franconia ten years ago. It's been a long time coming then, but undoubtedly between them guitarist Kai Wagner, vocalist/bass player Andreas Niemczyk, and drummer Adrian Heckel have fashioned an album of heavy riffs and catchy tunes fit to warm the cockles of any Hard Rocking heart.

All three musicians cut their teeth, apparently, in their local Hard Rock, Punk and Metal scenes, with cited musical influences that include AC/DC, Guns 'N' Roses, Motörhead, Led Zeppelin and Bruce Springsteen. You can hear all these bands in the music at some point, but particularly in evidence are the jabbing AC/DC-inspired riffs and an occasionally gruff vocal delivery and phrasing that is reminiscent of Lemmy Kilmister at his smoothest.

The sound is full and ballsy with songs that are powerful yet melodic. Wagner's guitar work is fluid and expressive throughout, breathing life even into the album's more straightforward Rockers. At times aggressive, at times laconic, the vibe smacks of The Cult's 'Sonic Temple'. Occasionally they sound like they might be stoned but believe me, they sound anything but dead!

Personal picks include 'Devil Alive', which never fails to get the foot tapping, the more earnest, Grungy and Psychedelic 'Summertime' and 'Everything's Alright'. 'Hell Ride' and 'Fever Dog' send a clear statement of intent, while 'Won't Back Down' is notable for its Billy Duffy-esque riff and its Springsteen-influenced melody – sounds like a single to me!

'Of Hard Bones And Travelled Hearts' (it's better that way around) is the sound of a band with some serious road miles under their belts who, undeterred, are still striving for "freedom of heart and soul". It's a summer and also a road album. Hopefully it's a road that will finally take them out of Upper Franconia and into a pub or club near you.

Michael Anthony