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IVORY TOWER ‘Heart Of The City’ (Chavis Records 2002)
Originally released back in 1989(?), when it went on to sell over 10,000
copies it is now re-released again due to popular demand. The band’s line-up
was Mike Wilson (vocals), Bill Martin (guitar/vocals), Joe Lam (bass) and
Duke Franc (drums). Obviously this has a very 80’s sound in both musical
style and production, but is you bear this in mind when you listen to it you
can relive those glory days!
Opener is ‘Ready to Roll’, starts of with a whirl of riffs, similar to
Y&T or Twisted Sister in their prime. Comes complete with a call and
response mid-section. Title track ‘Heart of the City’ is more Kiss than
Kiss! The group chorus certainly sounds like Kiss. Two highlights have to be
the vocals of Mike Wilson and the guitar work of Bill Martin, who does some
great soloing throughout the album. ‘Givin’ It All To You’ is a power
ballad, not unlike White Lion circa ‘Pride’. ‘Jump Into The Fire’ starts
with some heavy riffing and powerful drumming, an all out rocker. Another
ballad is ‘Hold On To The Night’, which leads in from a piano/vocal intro to
build into a harmony vocal overload chorus! My personal favourite track,
along with the title track, on the album.
A great way to relive the 80’s metal scene, whilst not groundbreaking it
is certainly worth a place in your CD collection if you enjoy Twisted
Sister, Kiss, Y&T et al. The band has their own sound and has some strong
songs on this album.
Chavis Records
****
Review by Jason Ritchie
10 Questions with...
£13.99
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