Hotel Diablo is one of those bands that kicks your ass from the first note, and their debut The Return to Psycho California is a CD that will stay in the rotation for awhile. This band is made up of members from Quiet Riot and WASP, but don't think that is what you're going to get. Their sound is a mix of alt rock and melodic hard rock. The songs are well structured and are catchy as hell. Hook-laden rock at it's best.
It will be a travesty if songs like Bury You and What You do to Me don't get airplay. Both songs are very catchy and have that hit factor. The whole CD flows well and contains a nice variety. If you're looking for a CD full of solid tunes, then you've found it. If I had one complaint about this CD it would be that the production is a little flat. Not sure why the band chose Gilby Clarke to produce, didn't think he could produce, and still don't; Thank goodness the songs are so strong, because you'll be able to overlook it. Solid CD from start to finish. Go get it!
Bottom Line: One of the best bands I have heard in a long time. Great melodic hard rock with an alt edge.
Standout Tracks: Bury You, What You Do to Me, All These Years and Wicked Lines.
-Ragman wanted this one for CD of the month, but Genghis beat him to it. DOH!