Ain't it great when you discover some cool new music, which isn't that new anymore. If you think about it, it is new, if it is the first time you've heard it. Right? Well my latest, late, discovery is a band called soul sign. Soul sign is a supergroup of sorts, featuring members of members of Yngwie Malmsteen (bassist Bjorn Englen) and Leatherwolf (vocalist Michael Olivieri) as well as some well renown studio musicians (guitars - Rob Math and drums Mike Taylor). I gotta tell ya, I was pretty pumped when I heard Olivieri was singing with the band, because I'm a huge Leatherwolf guy. Spoiler Alert - Michael is no longer in the band and has been replaced by Ex-Yngwie vocalist Mark Boals. Also, Math and Taylor have been replaced as well.
Soul sign's sound, is heavy with a modern edge. I have to say, this is a strong CD, which gets better with each listen. Most of the songs are mid-tempo, with a dark vibe to them, while keeping a nice melody. The beginning of the CD starts off with the track I'm Bleeding, which is a mid-tempo track, that is catchy, but won't fully sell you on this band. It is the latter tracks, like the melodic Life and Human Evil, that make this one a keeper. Like I said, the beginning of the CD is not as strong as the mid section, to the end of the disc. I just think the songs get stronger as you go through the album.
As excited I was to hear that Olivieri was in the band, I felt he struggled on some of the slower darker tracks. He has not lost anything vocally, but it seems like he is straining at times. I think Boals may be a better fit, due to his higher vocal range. It will be interesting to see how they do on their next studio release with Boals at the helm. Another thing that struck me, was the musicianship. It is stellar. Bjorn has a nice heavy sound and style, which reminds me a little of Tony Franklin. Math is a monster on the guitar, delivering killer riffs, every time he gets the chance. All and all not a bad debut. Strong songs with great musicianship. What more can you ask for?
Bottom Line: One of those albums that gets better with each spin. Solid modern edged rock with an edge. Well constructed songs that will stay with you.
Standout Tracks: Life, Human Evil, You (Control) and Out of Obsession
-Ragman can't wait to hear what these guys do next.