Released by: Better Noise Music
Release Date: August 25th, 2023
Genre: Hard Rock
Links: https://www.temptband.com/
Line Up:
Zach Allen (lead vocals)
Harrison Marcello (lead guitar)
Christopher Gooden (bass)
Nicholas Burrows (drums)
Tracklist:
1. Welcome Me In
2. Living Dangerous (feat. Dorothy)
3. Two Ways
4. Burn Me Down
5. Hideaway
6. Camouflage
7. Golden Tongue
8. Sneaking Around
9. Roses
10. Girl
11. Addicted To Touch
The recent release of New Yorkers TEMPT’s self-titled came out a few days ago. Remember we covered their debut some years ago back in 2016, they were just teens. Damn we we were impressed then, and now we finally have their sophomore album. And boy is it a real treat.
The band has evolved immensely since 2016, the release date of their first album. TEMPT’s experiences have multiplied! They’ve opened for BON JOVI at Madison Square Garden, performed shows with SHINEDOWN, IRON MAIDEN, appeared at festivals overseas etc, etc. Let’s not forget their fabulous covers of DEF LEPPARD (Women, Animal), Taylor SWIFT, QUEEN, BON JOVI, ALICE COOPER… But no, TEMPT hasn’t become a mere “cover” band! On this new album, aptly titled “Tempt,” everything is so much intuned – from the diversity of compositions to the sound, and the melodies that stick in my head.
The mixing by Harrison Marcello and Chris LORD-ALGE (known for their work with BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, PRINCE, MUSE, Tina TURNER, Joe COCKER…) is phenomenal.
When “Welcome Me In” begins, I’m taken aback by the prominent bass, and gradually, the guitar comes into its full force. The Hard Rock element becomes more pronounced, Zach Allen’s fantastic voice exudes tones between Soul and Rock. The condensed blend of VAN HALEN and THE BEATLES in the chorus becomes irresistible. The break and its magnificent choruses precede an incredibly powerful solo. The melody will stay with you!
Credit: Abi Raymaker
“Living Dangerous” (a duet with singer Dorothy) carries a guitar style reminiscent of DEF LEPPARD (which I love!). The chorus shakes me up completely! Clever backing vocals refine the melody! Harrison lets loose with a thunderous solo. “Two Ways” places the entire rhythm section at the forefront. Zach’s voice envelops it all, and the chorus hits just right. Some vocal harmonies introduce a calmer interlude before an awe-inspiring solo takes your breath away.
In “Burn Me Down,” I find more subtle hints of DEF LEPPARD in the guitar phrasing. I define this track as a mix of US Hard Rock and Pop. Harrison contributes a solo that makes me addicted to his playing. The dynamic and energetic “Hideaway” sets things on fire! The choruses, the guitar – everything is in place, meticulously arranged, calculated, much like DEF LEPPARD, the band’s primary inspiration! The chorus is very addicting. “Camouflage” leans more towards Hard Rock in the vein of that trademark 80’s Hard Rock we all come to love so much. The vocal harmonies are fantastic. The solo is mind-blowing! The chorus of “Golden Tongue” gains power from Harrison’s guitar. His divine solo adds finesse to this composition that breaks away from the beaten path.
“Sneakin Around,” a sort of semi-ballad, exudes the intelligent songwriting of our New Yorkers. It’s an adrenaline rush with a touch of refinement and elegance. The single “Roses,” conveying joy, is a beautiful festive track, and the spirited chorus makes me want to dance! A lively and flawless solo, just how I like them. The funky (bass) and pop elements of “Girl” are a delight. TEMPT dabbles in various styles, and inspiration is always present. The chorus is perfect and remains true to the already-established American style. TEMPT’s remarkable composition skills shine, as seen in “Addicted To Touch,” with its complex yet consistently catchy melody. The almost “a cappella” break is a small wonder and adds that constant attention to detail.
A meticulously crafted and brilliant album with catchy, multifaceted compositions!!! This one feels like a more mature and complete product overall. Recommended to any fan of Rock well done!!!
Written by: Shadow Editor
Ratings: 8/10
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