Then this writer was so happy: 'I was chosen to review the new album from L. A. GUNS', but I didn't know that there are two band using the same name. It's because the successful line up was torn in two. This one is with Keely Nickels, Scotty Griffin and Steve Riley, and "Renegades" is the album's name.

Throwing out all the confusion caused by the name, the album presents the same old and good formula of L.A. GUNS: a mix between hooking and accessible melodies usual to from Californian Glam Metal from the 80's with an aggressive touch. But the difference is a load from 70's Hard Rock in many moments, and an accurate melodic aesthetics (maybe an influence from Kurt). It's truly very good, a hell raising Glam Metal release!

The production was done in a way to create an organic and nasty Glam Metal feeling, but taking advantage from modern recording devices. And they hit the target, because the sonority is abrasive and nasty, but keeping the idea that the listeners must understand what is being played. It's like fusing the best from the past with the advantages from today.

All the songs are excellent, keeping alive the same spirit from the 80's Glam Metal. But the Blues/Hard Rock catching riffs of "Crawl" and "Well Oiled Machine", the massive Whiskey and Smoke ambience of "Lost Boys" (great chorus and backing vocals), the modern feeling mixed with Glam aesthetics of "Witchcraft", the introspective ballad "Would" (fine vocals, indeed), and the massive Rock 'n' Roll appeal of "Don't Wanna Know" (a simple but strong work from bass guitar and drums) are the best shots.

Well, if this band is L. A. GUNS or not, only time will tell. But the spirit of the band resides within "Renegades" for sure.