M.I.C. - review added 7th February 2011
Album Review: 3rd Degree (2011)
For fans of: Bar Rock... and slightly minging cartoon cover art
M.I.C. - Made In China - is a multi nationality band based in China. Formed by the Canadian born guitarist/singer Yvon Serre, the band is now completed by Angela Renzetti on vocals, Tommy Burke on drums, Uchida "Yugi" Yuuji on bass, and Dave Smith on keys.
The band's last two offerings - one self-titled, the other "Out 2 Rock" - more or less set the scene for this album. "3rd Degree" is definitely a continuation of M.I.C.'s previous work, boasting a live bar room feel to the songwriting and lively enthusiastic performances from the players. The album has a reasonably good level of production, so the actual sound was clearly created in a studio, but there is an obvious vibe of beer, dancing drunkards and audience interaction going on.
How does it compare to the other albums? Pretty similar really. If you've heard these guys before you'll be right at home with "3rd Degree". The quality of musicianship has arguably moved up a notch or two since last time out, but everything else is much the same.
Favourite moments include opener 'Always On My Mind', the heavier 'I Want To Live' but there's plenty of memorable material throughout the album.
In Summation:
This is a band who will probably always be better live than on record, but there are many big-name acts you could say that about so it's hardly a criticism. Still, the album is enjoyable for a few spins...and it really does make me wish they'd get their butts over to the UK for a few shows.
Entertainment/Enjoyment:
Musicianship:
Vocals:
Song Writing:
Production:
Overall (Not An Average Of The Above):
Check out... The band live.
Track List:
01. Always On My Mind
02. What You Do To Me
03. Barbie Lady
04. I Am Ready
05. My Baby's Going
06. Judy Don't Go
07. I'll Be Back
08. I Want To Live
09. Off the Throne
10. Teenage Rock Star
11. It's Been A While
12. The Only One
Artist's website(s): M.I.C. | MySpace | Facebook
