David Reece – ‘Blacklist Utopia’

(El Puerto Records)

I’ve always believed Melodic Rock/Metal vocalist David Reece is one of the most consistent performers in the business, no matter what band he’s with or what style he’s crafting he always gives you something to enjoy and be entertained by. With his latest solo offering ‘Blacklist Utopia’ he yet again proves me right creating a strong and solid album. Don’t get this expecting a replica of the Bangalore Choir debut album, this album is far more metallic and lyrically diverse than that. Yes, I too am a big fan of that album, but if you get this expecting it you will be disappointed which is a great shame as this album deserves unbiased listening ears.

‘Blacklist Utopia’ is Heavy Rock with strong metallic traits! This collection of head bang inducing songs is sure to get necks sore and fists pumping, full of energy and memorable moments it’s guaranteed to have fans cranking the volume up several notches past maximum! As with a lot of Reece’s work he does tend to favour music with a dark tone and here that is very noticeable but it’s never depressing – the music tends to be too fast flowing and energetic to become gloomy but nonetheless Reece’s vocals suit music of a dark nature.

Reece has never sounded better than he does here his distinctive vocals causing me to smile on every memorable vocal line and catchy chorus. As vocalists age their voice does change and, in many cases, ceases to have the range or expression you become used to during their prime years. Reece seems to be showing no signs of his vocals diminishing so this album has his distinctive vocals full frontal and if you didn’t know better, you’d think this was Reece circa 1992!

The album is full of power and metal even though I’d describe the album as Heavy Rock on the whole. That Metallic edge primarily come from guitarist Andy Sussemihl whose metallic riffs and licks up’s the heaviness and will definitely get heavier rock fans dribbling. The thunderous rhythm section of Malte Frederik Burkert (Bass) and Francesco Jovino (Drums) are the ones who really accentuate the heaviness with their powerhouse and at times frantic performances.

If you’re a fan of Reece already and Heavy Rock in general you will find plenty on ‘Blacklist Utopia’ to enjoy. Check out the album’s obvious single ‘I Can’t Breathe’ and if that hits the right notes with you, you won’t be disappointed with this one!

8/10

Essential Track - 'I Can't Breathe'

Review by Woody