Everyone loves the classic lineups of their favorite bands, but there are also instances where other formations of these bands also strike your fancy. One instance of this is Danger Danger. Remembered for their success in the late ‘80s, Danger Danger struck the Hard Rock world with hits like 1989’s “Naughty Naughty” and “Bang Bang” with Ted Poley on vocals. However, around 1994, Paul Laine joined in vocals and remained with the band for many years. A part of such albums as the different sounding Dawn in 1995, he still remains a fan-favorite.
Incidentally, Danger Danger’s lineup experienced changes in 2004 when Poley returned, and they remained active for many years to follow, all while Laine moved onto other projects. However, this would not be the end of Laine’s association with his former Danger Danger bandmates, because in 2016 it was announced that a new band would be formed with a group of them a part of The Defiants.
Separate from Danger Danger, which is still its own entity, The Defiants features Laine on vocals, along with Danger Danger’s Bassist Bruno Ravel and Guitarist Rob Marcello. All familiar with one another from their 11 years working together in Danger Danger, Frontiers Music Srl President & Head of A&R, Serafino Perugino, suggested they reunite for something new, which resulted in The Defiants, their 2016 debut, as well as 2019’s Zokusho. A rather cool gift for those who enjoyed Danger Danger with Laine a part of the mix, the question those who are late to The Defiants party may ask is – what do they sound like? Well, the answer is simple, they are lively Hard Rock with melodies that stick with you and hooks that stick with you even more. Think of the classic Hard Rock that you loved from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s and you have The Defiants, but still with a modern flair.
This all-in mind, the band returns in 2023 with their third album, Drive. Released on June 9th through Frontiers Music Srl, the album is best described as a 11-song Hard Rock oasis that is large and in charge. Clearly having influence from Danger Danger in their sound with their core being 2 original members and Laine, other bands that you might compare The Defiants to would be classic Bon Jovi or Journey.
This all considered, the band has a heavier edge at times as heard on cuts like “Hey Life,” “Go Big Or Go Home,” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now.” Each of them very energetic and inspiring songs that conveys a message to make the most of your time here, it is also the more mellow Hard Rock tracks on Drive that grab your attention. Mixing ballad-like structures with guitars, emotional vocals, and really flawless keyboards, some of these include “What Are We Waiting For,” “Miracle,” “Love Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” and “The Night To Remember.” In between these, you will also find a lot of stellar material as well, but that is left for your own discovery.
Overall, Drive is an album that lives up to its name; it is filled with a sense of determination, heartfelt composition, and songs that stand tall. So, if you are a fan of Danger Danger or the classic Hard Rock era of yesteryear, you absolutely need to check out this band and their latest album. That is why Cryptic Rock gives Drive 4 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment