The first recording in years to feature classic
Krokus members
Marc Storace (on vocals) and guitarist/songwriter
Fernando Van Arb (who together led the group to the top of the '80s metal heap during the Headhunter Blitz period),
To Rock or Not to Be was a successful return to form for the Nordic metal veterans.
Storace's
Bon Scott impersonation actually seems to have improved with age, and on tracks like "Flying Through the Night," it's almost impossible not to think that the
AC/DC screamer hasn't risen from the dead. The overall effect is enhanced by
Van Arb's direct approach to power chording and song construction. Too many pseudo power metal choruses and unforgivable lyrics on tracks like the title cut and "Stop the World" keep the record from being the genuinely cool tribute to the band's early (and derivative) crunch that it should be. Considering how many years separated
Krokus from their gold and platinum days, however,
To Rock or Not to Be is a respectable disc that fans of the group may very well enjoy. ~ Vincent Jeffries