The Phil Koubek (pronounced “co-beck”) Project cites some pretty heady musical inspiration on its website: Queensrÿche, Megadeth, Rick Springfield, Iron Maiden, The Sweet, Judas Priest. And while those artists’ music might not be readily evident in the dozen songs on this Nebraska-based band’s 2021 debut, I’m Your Rock Star, the similarities to Eighties-era KISS cannot be denied; Koubek’s voice recalls Paul Stanely in prime form.
The album sounds like a million bucks -- just as so many rock records did back in the day -- thanks to pristine production from Michael Beck, former frontman for both Red Dragon and Kings of Dust. “Do You Want to R&R” is a catchy opener that clearly conveys the band’s mission statement, and that continues with “Wake Me When It’s Over,” which could have been on the radio 35 years ago. “Darkest Part of My Heart” recalls Dokken both lyrically and musically, and I love the title "Reckon Ball." That said, other songs (“What’s Up Girl,” “Dirty Wings” and "S.O.L.") rely on lyrical and musical clichés and simply aren’t as memorable as other tracks here.
It’s easy to admire the The Phil Koubek Project’s gumption, though, and it’s refreshing to hear such balls-out passion for playing this kind of music in the 2020s. Respect.
Track Listing:
1. Do You Want to R&R
2. Wake Me When It’s Over
3. Darkest Part of My Heart
4. Shed That Skin
5. What’s Up Girl
6. Reckon Ball
7. Just a Bad Day
8. Dirty Wings
9. King of the Scene
10. S.O.L.
11. The Sky Is Falling
12. I’m Your Rock Star
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