MENIKETTI - Meniketti

self released

Posted: 4/6/03

Reviewed by: Dirt

Category: Hard Rock

Released: 2003

Label URL:

Artist URL: www.meniketti.com

Meniketti is the new band featuring Y&T vocalist/guitarist Dave Meniketti. The Bay Area based Y&T came to prominence during the mid-80s metal movement, alongside bands like Motley Crue and Ratt, but never quite reached the level of greatness that they deserved. The reason for Y&T's inability to break into the big time is still a mystery but it might have had something to do with the fact that some of the band members didn't fit in with the image driven 80s. Musically, Y&T delivered tough anthems ("Mean Streak"), good time rockers ("Lipstick and Leather"), as well as emotional ballads ("Forever"), all which centered around Dave's blues based guitar work and his smokey vocal style. While Dave still does live dates with Y&T, the new Meniketti release features completely different members. With this cd, Dave stays close to his roots, distancing himself from the modern flair of Y&T's Musically Incorrect (1995). Y&T fans will be thrilled to hear that Meniketti features good time rockers, like the rousing opener "Messin' With Mr. Big," the chanted "All In This Together," and the classic "I Remember," and touching blues-based ballads like "It's Over" and "Hard As I Try." The main difference between Y&T and Meniketti is that Meniketti concentrates more on mid-paced rock songs ("No Lies," "Storm," and "Tough Luck Avenue") and ballads. In fact, the last four songs are all ballads. A few ballsy rockers in the style of "Keep On Runnin'," "Lipstick and Leather," and "Contagious" would have been my only request. Despite their absence, this is fine release, and a truly refreshing moment for rock music. Everything is classy, and Dave's vocals and guitar tone are pure perfection.