The debut album from rhythm and blues infused rock band TAX THE HEAT, is a great throwback to dirty old rock and rock. As the band themselves said it's like it's from a "time when rock'n'roll was still new, vibrant and exciting". Not that I'm complaining about the current state of rock and metal, but it's great to see a band getting so in touch with the roots of the music we all love.

Everything about the band screams "old school", and that's mostly a very good thing. These boys from Bristol, have crafted a bluesy and soulful album with everything you'd typically associate with rock 'n' roll. Lyrics about love and lust, groovy guitar solos, and catchy chorus' are just a few of the things that make TAX THE HEAT so much fun.

The band have managed to get quite reputation for themselves back home, working with producer Chris Goss, who had previously worked with numerous bands that fit and old school feel including QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, also now with producer Evansson, who has worked with the likes of Robert Plant. They have played big festivals such as Download, and supported acts like AEROSMITH at Calling Festival. For a band that's only just now releasing its debut album, they've certainly garnered the respect of their peers.

There are a few songs in particular that stand out well above the others on this album. "Animals" is a fantastic groovy and dirty feeling song with a lot of soul and a great way to get you psyched for the rest of the album. "Devil's Daughter" is incredibly fun, and lyrically great however a bit short. The strongest track of the entire album, in my opinion, would be "Caroline". It's a great, extremely emotional blues rock number with a great hook and a very classic feel to it.

Fans of blues rock, or bands likes QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, or THEM CROOKED VULTURES, should definitely give these guys a go. I look forward to seeing where they go from here, there's certainly a lot of potential here for TAX THE HEAT to be a massive hit.

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