After many years without being used, the Hard Rock formulas came back from the dead in the early years of this millennium, especially on Europe (the USA lands were tamed by different musical tendencies since the 90s). On one side, you can hear bands focusing on Hard/Glam Metal tendencies, and on other acts with a filth appeal on Hard Rock from the 70s (into an AC/DC-like tendency), if you can see things on just two ways. But there are those that combines both, as the North American quartet from L.A. THE MERCURY RIOTS shows on “In Solstice”.

On the band’s music, one can feel the clear influences from the 70s, from acts as LED ZEPPELIN (especially on Justin’s singing), AEROSMITH and AC/DC (due the organic appeal of their music), and on others that Sunset Strip’s feeling of the 80s due the charming and hooking melodies the band uses on its songs. In other words, it’s melodic and hooking, but organic and as aggressive as a wild cat. The formula is old, but their music is excellent. The band brought Mike Fraser (who is known due his works with AC/DC and METALLICA) to produce the album along with them (Mike did the mixing and sound engineering as well), with the mastering being done by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound. The result is something organic and simple, but ‘huge’ and massive, with excellent natural instrumental tunes. So be prepared for the impact!

All the songs are excellent and full of inspiration, but free of compromises that aren’t linked to the band’s music. And it’s almost impossible to say that one song is better than the other, as heard on “Make It” (what lovely melodies and excellent instrumental parts, with excellent vocals laying perfectly on the instrumental sheath), “Be Yours” (a huge Glam Metal song from the 80s filled with Boogie Rock touches, and what lovely vocals and backing vocals), “L.A. Girls” (what huge melodies, with bass guitar and drums creating a dense rhythmic layer for the guitars), “Sweet Melody” (this one deserves its names due the melodic appeal, and it’s an amazing Rock ‘n’ Roll with tender parts), “Take Me When You Go” (it’s impossible to not surrender to this one, and what great guitar riffs and arrangements, and remarkable backing vocals), “Light It Up” (a fine ballad-like song with heavier chorus contrasting with melodic and deeper parts), “Save Me a Drink” (what fine recollection of Hard Rock melodic hooks)…, JUST WAIT RIGHT THERE! It’s impossible to not surrender to this set along with “Scream It Out”, “99 Degrees” and “Nobody Knows”, because all of them are truly great! Spin all of them, and enjoy!

THE MERCURY RIOTS is really an excellent band, so listen to (and buy) “In Solstice”. You won’t regret it!