VANDERBUYST - review added 27th May 2011
Album Review: Vanderbuyst (self-titled) (2010)
For fans of: Retro Hard Rock
Dutch 3-piece Vanderbuyst was formed in 2008. They play an unashamedly retro take on hard rock and do a rather good job of it. I'm a huge fan of the cover art too...but this review is supposed to be about the music...
Included on this release - which realistically is halfway between an EP and a full album - are five full tracks including one about porn actress Traci Lords, a live cover of UFO‘s 'Rock Bottom', and a second live track.
The five originals recall the sounds of early NWOBHM mixed with early-to-mid 1980s American sleaze metal. It's authentic stuff and is a cut above most modern takes on ye olde music. I'm not a huge fan of making music that's twenty five years out of date, but the reality is that the songs here are good enough for any snobbish views to be instantly dispelled.
'To Last Forever' starts with a fine instrumental intro, and the main body of the song is equal parts prog rock, 1970's pop and classic rock. There's no big chorus but it's a cool track anyway. 'Tiger' is of similar quality, but a lot more metal-icious. 'New Orleans' is a chilled, laid-back rocker with a real groove to it. Best of the bunch so far. 'Traci Lords' tells an interesting story, but it's arguably the least successful song from an enjoyment point of view. Last of the newbies, the hard hitting 'Stealing Your Thunder' is the best of the bunch. The two live tracks suggest a great stage show, but are a bit out of place here.
In Summation:
This eponymous effort features loads of a top musicianship and plenty of retro charisma. For a roll down memory lane it doesn't get much better than this there days.
Entertainment/Enjoyment:
Musicianship:
Vocals:
Song Writing:
Production:
Overall (Not An Average Of The Above):
Track List:
01. To Last Forever
02. Tiger
03. New Orleans
04. Traci Lords
05. Stealing Your Thunder
06. Rock Bottom (Live)
07. From Pillar To Post (Live)
Band/Performers:
Other Info:
Label: Van Records
Artist's website(s): Vanderbuyst | MySpace | Facebook
