Every generation needs its
Grand Funk Railroad, and
Rose Hill Drive fits the bill for the post-millennial hard rock set. The power trio lineup that served
GFR so well during its early years works just as effectively here, and even the stark headshots of the three members seem inspired by the similar inner sleeve shot from
Funk's second (red) release. While
Rose Hill Drive would probably rather be compared with their heroes
Led Zeppelin -- songs five, six and seven's acoustic approach indicates that -- the blue-collar American style of this Boulder, CO trio keeps it on this side of the ocean. Regardless, these guys can play, and production by famed engineer Nick DiDia keeps the sound lean, mean yet professional. Lyrics push towards the dark side with "Man on Fire"'s Dark Lord, good/evil conflict and "The Guru" and "Reptilian Blues" skirting prog rock themes. Bassist/vocalist Jake Sproul never gets too histrionic in his style, a refreshing variation from the hard rock norm of singer overkill. But it's his brother, guitarist Daniel, who brings the fire, spitting out killer licks that never descend into parody. It's that sense of restraint, especially in a genre that doesn't encourage subtlety, which helps make this recording special. A few guitar overdubs, especially on the pounding "Hard Enough" help drive the sound without getting fussy. There is a slight drop-off in songwriting quality as the disc winds into its final third, but the seven-and-half minute "Reptilian Blues" packs a serious mid-tempo punch as Nathan Barnes' locomotive drums thump with driving intensity. This is an impressive debut from a potent three-piece unit that seems to have only begun to stretch its collective legs. ~ Hal Horowitz