International band, WASPTRESS, released their their self titled debut album October 13, 2017. The band was formed by Latvian natives, Big Bush and Sixna. The band discovered what they were missing in vocalist, Gaz Hunt of Gloucestershire, England in 2013. This is a relatively new band, but all of the members bring with them to the stage an extensive background in musicianship. Members of WASPTRESS have toured the UK, Europe and North America, as well as worked as studio musicians in support of heavy hitters like NAZARETH, WHITESNAKE, SLADE, SWEET, UDO, THE DARKNESS, THE DAMNED, THE LEVELLERS, DIE ARTZE, and MAGNUM among others.

"Critical Mass" is an energetic track with catchy, heavy rhythm guitar riffs. WASPTRESS a unique sound that transcends the confines of sub genre; part hair metal, heavier than hard rock, infused with bluesy guitar riffs. There is something fun, and almost maybe even a little quirky about WASPTRESS. I am reminded a little of The Darkness as far as sound. "Closer" is a bluesy song, and Haz delivers some powerful vocals. To me it was a bit humorous when there were these vocal outbursts "come on" and the guitar mirrored the vocals. I'm not certain it was meant to be humorous, but alas I found it so anyway. The song definitely has an 80's hair metal vibe.

WASPTRESS gives another interesting sound with "Win or Lose." The running riff at the beginning reminded me of "Flight of the Bumblebee", which I would have never pegged for being an asset to a hard rock or metal song, but it works. The tempo slows some with "Single Rose." Here we have a nostalgic balad steeped in yearning of lost love. "No Goin' Back" provides another upbeat, catchy 80's feeling, before plunging into a heavier track with the aptly named, "Darkness." The serious, more somnolent tone continues with "I am What I am."This is one of the heavier, more interesting tracks on the album. WASPTRESS lightens the mood with another energetic, in your face song in "I Never Liked You Anyway." "Angel" brings a light, happy, plucky love song. Thematically this one had the potential to be cheesy, but the guitar parts are well written, well played, and to me only prove that WASPTRESS has the potential for broad appeal. A love song that woos those who appreciate mastery of the guitar; I'm a fan. Next up, "Monika",  a catchy song about a deceptive seductress, before finishing off with "Mx 4." WASPTRESS finishes on an up note with another bluesy track.

WASPTRESS, with their self titled debut album, delivers fine musicianship and well written tracks, originality, and a sound that defies definition.