Album Review: Wax Mekanix – Mobocracy (Electric Talon Records)

Wax Mekanix is an American musician, songwriter, performer, producer, and founding member of NWOBHM cult rockers Nitro. Mobocracy is a focused collection of strident, aggressive, snarling, howling songs that draws on his decades of experience and influences.

In his own words:

I crafted this record to be a strong statement about America’s current state of animosity and decay that features me on lead vocals, guitars, drums, and percussion throughout, as well as an array of talented guest musicians such as Brandon Yeagley and Chris Bisop of Crobot. History shows us that artists will not let this kind of tectonic shift in American life pass without comment. I’m just commenting now.

The immeasurable talents of Wax Mekanix is felt immediately with the groovy flurry and sleazy rhythm of the kickass opening track Blood in My Eyes. An instant foot-tapping classic, the blend of psychedelic effects, catchy and blood-pumping chorus, and passionate vocals performance does everything right.

Talking of blood-pumping though… Victorious is a ‘get up and move’ track. A walk that little taller and fist in the air listen. One of the catchiest and smile-inducing tracks on the album. Although, All Freaks’ increase in energy and passionate shout of ‘freak’ is up there too. An incredibly positive listen, it’s a singalong and one of the best vocal performances on the record.

It’s time for something a little heavier though with Mad World. Where the metal is turned up a notch, the riffs galloping away and the vocals having a bit of snarl here and there. A frantic and experimental guitar solo caps off another banger. Before Ghostland’s melodic but animated tune keeps the body moving and the mind sharply focused on Wax Mekanix’s classy performance.

All good things must come to an end but it’s no surprise to find Black is another strong effort. It asks you to lean back and take a moment to appreciate the meaningful mellow but energetic rhythm. It’s very hard to not do as it asks, seeing as the relaxing melody mixed with peppier bursts is so entertaining. Wonderful.

You may not know who Wax Mekanix is at first but come the end, you won’t be forgetting him anytime soon.

Wax Mekanix – Mobocracy Full Track Listing:

1. Blood in My Eyes
2. Victorious
3. All Freaks
4. Mad World
5. Ghostland
6. Black

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