Mad Max – ‘Wings Of Time’

(Rock Of Angels Records)

I have a real soft spot for Mad Max and I’m always intrigued to check out their music which never fails to entertain even if everything they release isn’t a solid gold hit. Hard to believe they have been going for Forty years with Fifteen albums under their belt especially with how fresh and exciting their latest album ‘Wings Of Time’ is.

This album feels aptly titled as the songs as a whole hark back to the band’s origins and their Eighties sound. Mad Max seems revitalized and even though they are writing and performing in a sound of yesteryear there’s no feeling of treading over old ground. So, anyone looking for an album with an Eighties feel will definitely be taken with this collection of tunes.

It did feel weird initially that this album doesn’t feature vocalist Michael Voss but new lead singer Julian Rolinger is a quality vocalist. He has a different style but his voice still fits the Mad Max model, this might be part of why the album doesn’t feel like a re-tread. I quickly became a fan of Rolinger and he does a fantastic job here and creates some wonderful vocal moments that really stand out. He had big shoes to fill as Voss is an absolute legend and needed to put in a strong performance to impress established fans and he does just that.

As you’ve come to expect with Mad Max it’s Melodic Rock with NWOBHM touches and occasional metallic guitar riffs. Some songs showcase a more metallic vibe like ‘Stormchild Rising’ and ‘The Stage Is For You’. There are plenty of memorable choruses, smooth melodies and songs with intensely melodious moments. Sometimes the more metallic guitars contrast the smooth melodic nature of a song to great effect making them very memorable.

‘A Woman Like That’ is one of my favourites and had me pressing repeat immediately after my first listen. It’s an unforgettable Melodic Rock gem with a sing along chorus. ‘Best Part Of Me’ is an uplifting mid-tempo rocker which I highly recommend people check out but anyone looking for something that screams old school Mad Max then ‘Miss Sacrifice’ is the one for you.

‘Wings Of Time’ is an excellent album full to the brim with high quality Melodic Rock! Mad Max fans will rejoice and melodic rock fans in general will thoroughly enjoy this album. Its instantly gratifying and it will induce a big cheesy smile with its overall bright and uplifting sound.

10/10

Essential Track - 'A Woman Like That'

Review by Woody