Land of Gypsies – ‘Land of Gypsies’

(Frontiers Records)

Formerly known as Gang Of Souls whom I vaguely remember been talked about a few years back have revamped their moniker to Land Of Gypsies. Why should you give a poop? Because these guys are led by vocal god Terry Illous of XYZ fame! Illous and Co went into their song writing process during the Covid lockdowns and were aiming to create songs with a Classic Rock vibe, well they certainly nailed that with this debut Gypsy album.

Land of Gypsies is pure unadulterated Classic Rock wrapped up and presented in a modern production. They definitely achieved their goal of creating a blues driven Classic Rock album but I really think after you listen to album in its entirety you definitely get a sense of strong Melodic Rock leanings amongst the song writing and musicianship.

Personally, for me the most obvious comparison for LOG is without doubt Bad Company, many of the songs could have been lifted from their extensive back catalogue and it even sounds like Illous channels his inner Paul Rodgers on many of these songs. I also get early Whitesnake coming through, this could be where I’m picking up the MR leanings but I’m not sure everyone will agree with me on this one but I even get hints of Brit rockers Thunder! Although those Thunder similarities come primarily in the guitar riffs and the swagger of the song structures.

It was easy to fall in love with this album instantly with its infectious nature and grooves, some of the songs have amazing guitar lick hooks which are simply sublime and really enhance the appeal this album has beyond its chunky swaggering guitar riffs. These Blues fuelled songs come with soulful vocals and an earnest vocal display from Terry Illous. I’ve been a big fan of the man ever since becoming addicted to XYZ classic ‘Maggy’ after hearing it in Dolph Lundgren action flick Dark Angel. I can hand on heart declare this as one of Illous most stunning performances, its full of soul and emotion and I can’t big it up enough!

One of my favourites is ballad ‘Rescue Me’ which is beautiful, evocative and very emotive it really left a lasting impression on me. This album is more about the groove rock though and it has that massively.

Land Of Gypsies is a stunningly strong Classic Rock album but do you expect anything less from a band featuring Terry Illous!

9/10

Essential Track - 'Rescue Me'

Review by Woody