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SCORPIONS - Unbreakable |
Sanctuary Records | |||||||
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Posted: 11/21/04Reviewed by: Lynn Phillips Category: Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Released: 2004 Label URL: www.sanctuaryrecordsgroup.com Artist URL: www.the-scorpions.com | |||||||
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To sum it all up, the Scorpions have finally returned to produce a good, but not exceptional, hard rock release in the same vein as Face the Heat. For once, I thought it would be nice to dispense with all the pomp and circumstance by skipping the review foreplay and go straight for the money shot. Yes indeed, the Scorpions have returned to their classic sound and style even though some of the songs may seem a bit uninspired. As long as you’re not looking for another Love at First Sting, there’s quite a bit to like about Unbreakable.
The disc starts off killer with a very good anthemic track called “New Generation” reminiscent of “Alien Nation” from Face the Heat. But much like the rest of that disc, there are some standout gems (“Love’em or Leave’em“ and “Blood too Hot“) and some bland filler (“Maybe I, Maybe You“ and “She Said“) that makes the end result feel like more of a mixed bag rather than a priceless keeper for your collection. I have to give the band credit though, because Unbreakable is at least planted firmly in the hard rock genre. After experimenting with orchestras and techno/alternative in the not too distant past, it’s a relief to hear the band play crunchy heavy metal guitars before they were completely written off by fans.
Hearing Klaus’ outstanding one-of-a-kind voice is a treat for the ears, as he has lost little of his range and unique sound over the years. Another bonus is the heavy drumming of James Kottak (ex-Kingdom Come). His playing style gives the Scorpions a much-needed kick in the ass for the more up-tempo songs. Unfortunately, the band still too often indulges in slower tempo tracks or ballads that disrupt the rock n’ roll flow established on the first half of Unbreakable.
The Bloody Truth: I still say that the worst thing that even happened to this band is the commercial success received from their sappy ballads. Regardless, the band can still rock with the big boys and it’s a pleasure to hear them return to their roots once again.
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