Album Review: A-Z – A-Z (Metal Blade Records)

Made up of Mark Zonder, famed former Fates Warning and Warlord drummer, alongside Fates Warning vocalist Ray Alder, Warlord/Steve Vai/Ring of Fire bassist Philip Bynoe, guitarist Joop Wolters and keyboardist Vivien Lalu, A-Z is a new melodic and progressive rock band due to release their self-titled album on August 12th, 2022 via Metal Blade Records.

A rocking blast of old school sounding energy, with tons of melody and massive choruses, A-Z is a fun band to listen too. One that anyone can enjoy, filled with upbeat rhythms and just enough fire in the belly to get the head-banging along nicely. Maybe even throwing out the odd air-guitar moment, especially when you hear solos like the one that exists in the thumping opener Trial by Fire.

A thumping drum and bass rhythm, some 80s themed elements, progressive guitar tones and melodrama to the vocals makes The Far Side of the Horizon another notable effort. Before A-Z hit new heights with the raucous energy of The Machine Gunner and the melodic groove of Rise Again. Both sides of A-Z are exciting, interesting, and very memorable. The simplicity of their old-school rock sound complimented by their penchant for progressive detail and varied direction changes.

Perhaps though, the best of what this debut has to offer comes next with Window Panes. Where the beat is so infectious and the energy is right up there, resulting in something undeniably catchy.

Although the likes of Run Away, Stranded and At the Waters Edge are nothing to complain about either. Each liable to leave a big smile on the face, each filled with rocking moments and epic sounding choruses.

The passion that A-Z exude can’t be overlooked either. This debut is no half-assed throwback, they’re giving it their all. While clearly enjoying what they’re doing, no further proof needed than the glorious sound of Borrowed Time. A track that races along at a peppy pace, only interrupted for another smashing guitar solo. Before it’s time for the finale (excluding the bonus track) of Sometimes. A heartfelt and touching end track with just the right amount of progressive wildness about it to keep the body moving.

Of course, there is the bonus of The Silence Broken, more of the same top shelf rocking energy from A-Z. Confirming this as a debut to proud of, something that stands out for having a charming old-school appeal while being suitably progressive thinking too.

A-Z – A-Z Full Track Listing:

1. Trial by Fire
2. The Far Side of the Horizon
3. The Machine Gunner
4. Rise Again
5. Window Panes
6. Run Away
7. Stranded
8. At the Waters Edge
9. Borrowed Time
10. Sometimes
11. The Silence Broken (Bonus Track)

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