It started as a band originally formed by two brothers sharing the adoration for true US Heavy Metal elevated throughout the 80s, released a debut self-titled album and now rewarding their hunger with a second album with a different line-up, breaking the brotherly pact, that might take them higher to far reaches of the local scene. This is the band where a place for vacation is up there in the stars, in the vast space, SPACE VACATION, newly signed to Pure Steel Records and haling with a sophomore album under the title of "Heart Attack". After tuning in to their 80s oriented breaking knobs, I wouldn't exactly call their endeavour as a cardio arrest moment, but it will surely blast to bits the latest effort of the modern American Metal scene consisting of refined Metal and Hardcore outtakes. Clouded by a production that seemed highly similar to mid-80s sound draughts of acts such as MALICE or early HELSTAR amongst many, SPACE VACATION retained the old memories of that once great US Metal scene that sadly gone sour after the last dying moments of the 80s.

So basically what do we have here? SPACE VACATION, consisting of the band's leader Scott Shapiro on bass and vocals, and the newly added guys as guitarist Kiyoshi Morgan (lately discharged from VICIOUS RUMORS after playing there for five years), and the skinner Eli Lucas, put their trust in post-NWOBHM, coming forward to traditional Metal raised in the US that will cross reference many past Metal acts. However, I would also add early DEF LEPPARD to the mix of influences as I could notice hints of "High N' Dry" within the band's rhythms even while sounding heavier. "Heart Attack" is the right platter for the 80s Metal fan. I already shared my thoughts about the production because it is the first thing noticeable for its old school oriented alignment. But there is also the music hoisting at bay. In general, SPACE VACATION just went wild and free with their passions. I really enjoyed most of the simple riffing, hitting hard right in the nuts that crossed between classic, catchy Jive Hard Rock, Heavy and a slight Speed Metal touches, awesome rhythm section that almost never tired, a set of vocals that took me back to so many NWOBHM vocalists in the early 80s, especially in the vein of Brian Ross of SATAN and a Rock / Metal oriented soloing that proved the valuable addition of Morgan to the lineup. Manoeuvring fast and furious throughout those elements and qualities, SPACE VACATION created a steady type material, not straying too much, placing themselves as great old school act, fluent, fierce, heavy and in a way classy.

Though I think that "Heart Attack" can't be considered as the peak of what the band can provide, it will eventually spread like wildfire for the preparations of a third release that if made right, will take on the world sending a clear message for the band's local scene to start readjusting. The simple minded, but head bashing, "Heart Attack", "End Of The Bender", "Bro Hammer", "Logan's Run" and "On The Road" are just the chip off the shoulder of this group, a crushing blow of classic ecstasy. These have a few let downs but those will be shadowed by the songs great qualities of 80s valour. I urge you to follow this band, they seem like simple American people, but with a heart bearing 80s Metal true nature, that is SPACE VACATION. I would really like to hear more from them.