Search - Leatherwolf :: Leatherwolf

Outstanding Metal!

Melissa A. Davis | Columbus, Ohio | 08/30/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Don't pay attention to the guy that said you would waste your money buying this album, it is awesome! I saw these guys live and this album is there best stuff!! The guitar work shreds and the vocals are sharp, a must have!"

What do you get when you cross Yngwie with early Bon Jovi?

Rob Shouts | Pittsburgh, PA | 07/24/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you are researching the different styles of 80's metal, this album will take you somewhere you haven't been. First of all, they are the only band I can remember featuring three guitarists: each have something to offer. The band has a full sound - over the top in a good way. This album along with Street Ready (the follow-up) are reminiscent of a cross between Yngwie Malmsteen's Trilogy and Bon Jovi's 7800 fahrenheit. How is this possible? Leatherwolf bridges a gap between what was radio-friendly and what could be considered metal at it's lightest (think Bon Jovi's Tokyo Rose). Similar bands are Banshee, Barron Cross, and Cold Sweat. I got into them because I wasn't yet ready for the heavier Slayer/Exciter types but needed to expand beyond the mainstream glam rockers (poison, ratt, cinderella). The musical integrity is there and unlike Malmsteen, I can still crank those keyboard parts (Princess of Love intro especially) without flinching. I love the record. The Calling was the first I'd heard of them. It's very non-rock anthem yet catchy. Share a Dream is a great love song (the chick flick of metal ballads). Gypsies and Theives is an excellent rock-out jam followed by a fantastic cover of CCR's Bad Moon Rising. (No, it's not exactly like the original, it is the 80's metal version and does the song justice in that regard - Think Motley Crue's Helter Skelter). Princess of Love, Magical Eyes, and Rule the Night are a non-stop power push to the end: exposing all their talent in a whirlwind of 80's glam sound at it's best. I give it four stars only because I know that some will not stand for the keyboards or the overall airy-ness of their layered vocal sound (which, I think, is amazing cranked up). Despite the sound of their name they are no Iron Maiden nor Dio. They have a style like no other and would best relate to musicians or those not trying to be "Hard" all the time. If you're looking for a good band who writes solid lyrics, is excellent in arranging complex guitar parts, and has overall good musicianship with the soul of the 80's glam sound, these are your guys. Enjoy."