UK Rock trio SKAM "have a reputation for delivering no nonsense, gutsy, classic sounding British rock music, played with passion and conviction the band have steadily built a strong following." They present their third full-length album here, titled "The Amazing Memoirs of Geoffrey Goddard," which contains twelve tracks. Let's get to some of the highlights here.

"Aching Hearts" swings with a bit of a soulful groove, from clean guitars and vocalist Steve Hill's mid-range croons. The sound is a bit thin and perhaps more in the realm of Alternative music than anything, though that is a big umbrella. "Believe" has the makings for a good single. It's an up-tempo song with an easy listening riff and a big, energetic chorus. "Bring the Rain" has a heavy LED ZEPPELIN inspired riff for sure, with some vocal harmonies in the chorus. It's easy on the ears but fairly formulated in an all too familiar pattern. "New Dawn" is an interesting piece. Spoken words in the beginning talk about "it always seems impossible, until it's done." The guitar work is done well in this song, rounding out some of the space with spirit and liveliness.

"Peace of Mind" is another number with spoken word. The pensive sound pushes some emotion into the mix, where there is a strong connection between the guitars and vocals. Taken as a whole this might be my favorite track on the album. "Take it or Leave it" is another song that seems to have a riff inspired by the old school bands of the 1960's/1970's, and comes together nicely in the chorus. "The Iron Cross" could be something you hear on a MOTORHEAD album...that quicker punk influenced Metal that moves quickly with a no-nonsense riff and earnest vocals. "Two Worlds" closes the album; perhaps the heaviest song on the album. Though the melody is always the main feature, they can drop it hard at the same time. What I find most interesting about the album is how well it probably translates to a live audience. The music is clear and understandable, and not too difficult to assimilate. Perhaps what is least interesting is that factor of originality. You can hear the honesty of their compositions, and they are not trying to be someone else. But at the same time, they aren't able to get their head too far above their peers.