An enjoyable debut.

So far, 2017* has been a marvellous year for new releases, especially those coming from such reputable labels as Frontiers, AORHeaven, Escape et al. However, these releases do tend to possess pristine production and more saccharine than a Great British Bake Off convention. Therefore, it's occasionally nice to indulge in an album that is organic, with no frills, and that has a quintessential Rock 'n' Roll vibe to it. This debut from Italian Hard Rockers Kings Of Broadway is exactly that. It may not hit the spot immediately, but its edgy charm and no-nonsense execution will eventually inspire you to drum your fingers, tap your feet and maybe even singalong.

The idea for the band originated in 2011 from Aldo Lonobile (guitars), a much respected musician/composer on the Italian Metal scene; he's also the founder of Secret Sphere, Civilization One and Shadowspell (no, I've not heard of them either!). Here, Lonobile is joined by close friend Luca Cartasegna on drums, Ricky Messeri on guitar and JJ Andreone on bass. Completing the line-up, on vocals, is Tiziano Spigno who's delivery could take some getting used to. There is hardly an accent to be detected, however his gritty resonance took time to absorb at first, but overall it fits just right alongside the very in-your-face material on offer.

Commencing with 'First Day Of My Life' this album hardly ever holds back. Andreone and Cartasegna provide an almost tribal rhythm section, and the brief but explosive guitar interplay from Lonobile and Messeri more than justify their presence. 'Berserk' and 'Shallow Ground' follow in similar fashion, whilst 'Quantum Leap' sees a slightly lighter side to Spigno's vocals. 'Iron Lady', 'Dancing On The Edge Of Time' and 'Hit The Ground' bring us back to full-throttle Rock 'n' Roll and, to be honest, after several spins I found myself enjoying the ride. There are a couple of slower numbers; 'Never Enough' has a commercial ambiance to it and 'Through It All' is the obligatory ballad, which is delivered with passion and aplomb. Album closer 'Counting Stars' (a One Republic cover) produces a left-field, slightly funky conclusion.

It may only be anecdotal, but as each year passes it appears that these minor European bands are beginning to close the gap on their illustrious peers. I just hope Kings Of Broadway hang around for a second album as the potential is certainly there on this enjoyable debut.

Dave Crompton

(* this review is from Fireworks Magazine #79)