Every track here is a true gem.
Nasty High are based in Nottingham but musically they are a long way from home! This band has all the sounds, attitude and glitz of a top West Coast outfit and this album proudly stakes their claim in the world of Rock.
The title track kicks off in an atmospheric, synth-filled manner before a Gary Moore-esque solo from Marcos Rodriguez Alvarez leads us into 'Can't Get Enough' with a screaming delivery by guitarist/vocalist Daniel Barrow-Bentley and ferocious guitar solos aplenty. 'Here We Are' has riffs and passages that I've heard before on Guns 'N' Roses, Iron Maiden and Bon Jovi tracks, however, that being said, this is a kick ass song and is loaded with hooks, melodies and harmonies over a Hard Rocking base that works so well! 'Ride On' shows off Bentley's honey-coated voice which has a great rough warmth when pushed. More fret-board acrobatics come from Alvarez who really can make that guitar scream. When I first heard 'Burning Up', I thought they were going to launch into a cover of Saxon's '747 – Strangers In The Night', but they change direction at the last moment and really make this song fly.
Not many British bands can adopt the American Rock sound and play in such a polished, professional and convincing way but these guys really pull it off. The lyrical content is catchy and well thought out too. The likes of Giant and Y & T need to watch their backs!
'Hot Shot' sees Barrow-Bentley's voice coming across as James Hetfield does AOR! With the heavier guitar parts, this pays off giving a darker tone outside of the chorus. 'Rocket Lady' ticks all the boxes with its wondrous chorus and harmonics jumping out of every fret-board. If this doesn't get your head-banging then nothing will! 'No More Waiting To Rock' and 'Rock 'N' Roll Highway' take a more balls-out approach with the latter providing some Maiden style dual guitar licks alongside another memorable chorus line. The album closes out with 'King', a slower, heavy number with kicking melodies throughout which reminds me of Ozzy Osbourne meets Bon Jovi!
Every track here is a true gem. These guys produce music of the highest calibre and could give many of the stadium bands a run for their money. When Nasty High play live, everyone leaves smiling I'm sure. Keep it up guys!
Paul Sabin