Can you teach an old dog new tricks? More than likely, no. And that is the case with most rock bands from back in the day; once they have a sound they stick to it. The problem is, is it still relevant? Scottish legends Nazereth have just released their 22nd album in their 40+ year career. To be honest, I only really know two songs from the band, which are Hair of the Dog and Love Hurts. I was blown away recently to hear that they have been going consistently, for the most part, for 40+ years. That being said, the band has just released Big Dogz, which is their 2nd of this decade. Who knew? I surely didn't, but I have to say I was intrigued. Not being the biggest fan of the band, "Hell, I didn't even know they were still together," I was curious to see what they sounded like today.
For you classic rockers, the band is still somewhat intact and the music is still true to what they were known for, back in the day. The majority of the tracks on the CD sound as if they were written back in the 70's; in the hay day of the band. I'm not sure if some of the tracks were leftovers from back in the day, or if this is just the way these guys write, but fortunately for them, they work for what they are. Don't get me wrong, there are some nice hooks, with some catchy melodies, but unfortunately they didn't really grab me. I have to admit, I was surprised by some of the songs, but the sound got a little too dated for me. For classic rock junkies only.
Bottom Line: New classic rock, from a classic band. A 70s band churning out tunes as if it were still the 70s. The band still sounds good, but have not adapted with the times, but would you want that anyway? The songs on this CD are okay, but just fair. There are a few standouts, but nothing that is going to stick with you. For Nazereth die-hards only.
Standout Tracks: Big Dogz, Claimed, Radio and The Toast
- Ragman is starting to feel old...