Released by: Century Media
Release Date: Out Now!!!
Genre: Heavy Metal
Links: http://adrenalinemob.com
Line Up:
Russell Allen – Vocals
Mike Orlando – Guitar
John Moyer – Bass
AJ Pero – Drums
Tracklist:
1. Mob Is Back
2. Come On Get Up
3. Dearly Departed
4. Behind These Eyes
5. Let It Go
6. Feel The Adrenaline
7. Men Of Honor
8. Crystal Clear
9. House Of Lies
10. Judgment Day
11. Fallin’ To Pieces
Adrenaline Mob came onto my radar like it did for a lot of people, on That Metal Show. Mike Portnoy who had just been dismissed from Dream Theater vowed that this would be his new full time project. After releasing a full length and a covers album, Portnoy decided he no longer could work with the band due to conflicting schedules. Most people wrote them off as he was the main draw for the band, even with an incredible singer as Symphony X’s Russell Allen fronting the group. Portnoy had more name recognition. When I heard that The Mob was back and about to release a new album with AJ Pero of Twisted Sister banging the skins I was fairly shocked. I was even more shocked when I heard the album Men of Honor.
With their debut I really enjoyed it, but it wasn’t until I got the chance to see them live that their music connected with me. What I liked about Omerta I enjoy even more with Men of Honor. Despite it having more of a newer metal sound than I typically care for, it’s much heavier and brash than what one would expect from the SyX frontman. Guitarist Mike Orlando is a stunning player. His riffs are grooving and his solo’s are blistering. Allen’s voice has more of a growl to it and delivered with authority. The biggest surprise for me came from the drums. Portnoy’s legendary abilities are much chronicled, however during his time with Adrenaline Mob he stayed in the pocket and didn’t use a lot of flash. Pero adds a dimension to their sound that was frankly lacking. It’s thunderous and heavy as hell. I’ve always thought he was a great drummer with Twisted Sister, but it’s almost as if he is getting to spread his wings some now. My only complaint with the album is the lyrics, and I think I had the same issue with the last one. I get the in your face bravado of the Mob concept, but sometimes the words are too over the top and really detract. The only saving grace of them ruining the songs is the fact that there is such an amazing singer as Russell delivering them. He’s not only a powerful singer, but he’s a hulking guy who gives credence to the words. As much as I love the heavier songs like “Come On Get Up,” “Dearly Departed,” and “Feel the Adrenaline” it’s the quieter side of the band I appreciate even more. With tracks like “Behind These Eyes,” “Crystal Clear,” and “Fallin’ To Pieces” they demonstrate their abilities to write great songs.
I’m sure by the end of 2014 there will be other albums that will top this one, but so far this is one of my favorites this year. I’d love to see big things happen for them as they really make some great tunes. If you enjoyed their last album there is no reason not to love this one because it’s even better.
Written by Chris Martin
Ratings Chris 8/10
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