If you like your Metal hair, 80's, raw and edgy, then JULIAN ANGEL'S BEAUTIFUL BEAST's 3^rd release, "Kicking Down the Barricades" should be your next album purchase! Don't let the comic book album cover fool you. This dynamic trio from Germany is serious about their AOR and it shows! With a less pristine sound than their last album, "California Suntan", BEATIFUL BEAST delivers an alive album that could easily be your own private concert in a studio setting. If you have questions of influence, the band states: MOTLEY CRUE, RATT, DEF LEPPARD, AUTOGRAPH, older BON JOVI songs, GUNS N' ROSES, etc.

Most of the songs hold a strong bond throughout the album. Particular favorites include the catchy chorus of "Can't Stand Stand the Fiction." The opening riff of "Shock Em Dead" was reminiscent of Aerosmith at its peak.  The title track is aptly chosen to represent the album, as well as a new addition to rock anthems. "Loud music is my kind of freedom. "There ain't no tax on Rock N ' Roll". Amen, brothers!

The balance of gritty lead vocals, with strong back-up, the guns-a-blazing' guitars, and a fast-thumping drumbeat work amazingly well. There's simply no analyzing this album. And please do not judge its merits solely on the recent YouTube video. They far exceed on the album what you'll hear on YouTube. It's pure rocking good time with musicians that should be more well-known. Mr. Angel could rival any of the mainstream greats with both his acoustic and electric riff techniques.  If I could pick another band to pair with BEAUTIFUL BEAST for a massive exposure tour, I'd say MAD MARGRITT (USA). These two bands are rooted in the 1980's Hair sound and keep it well-preserved.

Just listen and fall into it, people! Before you know it, you'll be air-guitaring your way around your living room in the spandex you hid in the back of your closet in 1990.

​​