Melodic Hard Rock with traces of UFO in general, or if you wish, MICHAEL SCHENKER especially, in the guitar playing. Or as they call it, NWOCR, New Wave Of Classic Rock. That is exactly what they do bring, these Swedes. BLACK PAISLEY were formed in 2015 and state WHITESNAKE, SCORPIONS and THUNDER in their own description. After listening to their album "Human Nature" a couple of times, I can understand why. Especially the latter name springs to mind, as BLACK PAISLEY does like a swinging rhythm, like their English peers do. Oh, and they succeed with honours.

The band name BLACK PAISLEY is actually stolen, as it is the name of BON JOVI's Ritchie Sambora's classic Fender signature guitar from 1987. Well, the name fits, as far as I'm concerned. Although this is my first encounter with these Swedes, "Human Nature" actually is their fourth album to date. Well, it's impossible for me to conclude otherwise that that these guys have taken their experience and made it into one coherent album that sounds like the proverbial clock from start to finish.

The vocals are clear and very apt for the music. No, Stefan Blomqvist won't be winning any singing competitions, but he wouldn't be an outcast either. The band plays the way they should, with gusto, but always making sure that the vocals and guitars have the upper hand. But it is their way of forming a solid foundation that allows the singer and lead guitarist Franco Santunione to shine. And shine he does. During the song he is doing what he has to do, play the riffs and put down a solid sound. Then again, when he starts his solo work, that is when he really crawls out of the woodwork. Like I mentioned, he has that unique ability that has made Michael Schenker into the legend he is. He is capable of making a good and heavy solo sound very melodic and adhesive.

I know I write for Metal Temple, but there is no Metal here, it is all Rock. Sometimes even a bit of Southern Rock ("Set Me Free"). And that's fine by me, because if "Human Nature" is the quality that BLACK PAISLEY is going to live by, I am very happy with it. It has been a long time since a pure Rock record found it's way to my heart, and I have to admit that "Human Nature" has achieved just that goal. I therefore rejoice this release by BLACK PAISLEY.