Drummer Janosch Rathmer not only finds time for his main band Long Distance Calling but also this hard rock side project called Zodiac. Those expecting the instrumental prog rock/metal of Long Distance Calling should be advised that Zodiac aren't anywhere near that sound, as Zodiac travel back to the '70s and early '80s for their brand of heavy rock that pays homage to some of the classic bands from that era. The title track and "Carnival" rock hard but also contain plenty of swagger, like a cross between Bad Company and The Rolling Stones, while guitarist/vocalist Nick Van Delft really shines on the bands cover of ZZ Top's "Blue Jean Blues", delivering some sizzling blues licks and whiskey soaked vocals that would make Billy Gibbons proud. "Horrorvision" features tasty guitar harmonies from Van Delft & Stephan Gall that remind of Thin Lizzy, while "Assembly Line" is a textured melodic hard rocker that will surely please fans of Led Zeppelin or UFO. There's a nice acoustic blues/Southern Rock feel to "Thunder", and the scorching slide guitars come out on the driving "Diamond Shoes", a real barnburner that recalls Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackfoot, and a touch of AC/DC. Bassist Robert Kahr lends some atmospheric Organ to the melancholy "Coming Home", a lengthy blues rocker that features passionate vocals from Van Delft and plenty of sizzling guitar solos. Zodiac saved the heaviest for last in the form of "Dying Done", a crushing Black Sabbath-meets-Thin LIzzy instrumental workout that shows the superb musical talents of the band.
A Bit of Devil is damn impressive, and though I'd never heard of this band before receiving this promo from Prosthetic Records, I've quickly taken notice and will be keeping a close eye on them from this point on.If you like '70s styled hard rock, make sure to check this one out.
Track Listing
1) A Bit of Devil
2) Carnival
3) Blue Jean Blues
4) Horrorvision
5) Assembly Line
6) Thunder
7) Diamond Shoes
8) Coming Home
9) Dying Done
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
