Alfred Rock Hernandez - 'Evolution'

(Independent)

This album ‘Evolution’ by Mexican Alfred Rock Hernandez is actually four years old! I suspect this re-release is an extra push to help with his upcoming third album release later in 2020. Of the nine tracks there is a mix of song sang in Spanish and English and if I’m honest I do find the Spanish lyrics a little off putting. So, if you struggle with foreign language songs than you may not enjoy this collection of songs.

Hernandez is obviously influenced by Eighties hard rock, lots of bombastic guitar riffs and up-tempo rock energy. I’m not a fan of his vocals, not just because of the Spanish language tracks but in general I didn’t find his vocals very strong. Where he excels is in his guitar work which is very energetic and intriguing as showcased on album opener ‘Colision’.

To be honest though this album is very average it really didn’t grab my attention at all, the production seems a little lacklustre too which probably doesn’t help. It sounds like a bunch of home recorded demo’s, while modern technology allows for decent home recordings – these songs still have an amateurish vibe to them.

One of the strongest tracks is ‘Sin Respiracion’ an atmospheric mid-tempo ballad which is probably the best of the Spanish language tracks. ‘Tears In Your Eyes’ is the most memorable of the English language tracks, but it’s let down by Hernandez vocals which I really struggle with. It’s his guitar work which really saves the song.

I’ve heard far worse, but don’t expect to get your mind blown by Hernandez and only old school rock fans will find tracks here to enjoy.

Review by Woody