hutchie224RockMetal&Roll

The ideal soundtrack as I travel across the Portuguese interior by train, the sophomore release by Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen is a smooth as the coffee I sipped along the way.  A combination of bluesy rock swagger, the duo’s previous self-titled release is drenched with a quality that comes from decades of experience. Whilst it may not be the rapier thrusting of Iron Maiden, Smith’s style has always been more reserved, cleverer and with a distinctive style that makes his playing something special as well as instantly recognisable. Kotzen may sit slightly lower in the hall of fame, but not by much. Look up his history if you want some clarification. It’s feel-good rock music which has hooks big enough to snare an orca.  First single White Noise hangs in the memory for days, whilst the groove that underpins Black Light highlights not just the phenomenal guitar work but the vocal ability of both musicians. The crisp production allows room for the music to breath, and whils...