STATETROOPER - The Calling

CIC Records

Posted: 10/15/04

Reviewed by: Dirt

Category: Early 80s Hard Rock

Released: 2004

Band URL: www.statetrooper.co.uk

Are you disappointed with what Michael Schenker has been churning out as of late under the Michael Schenker Group (MSG) moniker?  Well, if you’re a fan of classic MSG (“Armed And Ready,” “Rock Will Never Die,” “On And On,” “I’m Gonna Make You Mine”) then Statetroooper’s The Calling will be an absolute necessity for you.

Statetrooper features former MSG vocalist Gary Barden, and was initially assembled in 1985 when Barden exited MSG.  The group folded in 1988 for unknown reasons, but recently resurfaced with their second full-length recording, The Calling.

The Calling delivers 11 tracks of classic early 80s hard rock in the MSG vein.  The guitar team of Jeff Summers and Martin Mikkels truly capture the early Schenker vibe, and Barden’s voice is in peak form throughout.  Obviously, Schenker should have reunited with Barden when he put MSG back together several years ago because current MSG throat Chris Logan is not a suitable replacement.

Top Tracks:

“The Calling” – an all out rocker that opens the disc and sets the tone for the cd – the chorus just screams MSG!!!

“Casablanca” – the chorus of this rocker also screams MSG!

“I’m Alive” – cool synth opening – great guitar riffs - one of the best tracks on the cd

“Love Lies Bleeding” – a pretty ballad

“D.O.A” – a flashy hard rocker that will get your foot tappin’

“Twilight’s Last Gleaming” – a powerful, majestic rocker – maybe the best on the disc.

The Bloody Truth: How the hell did Statetrooper capture the essence of the early MSG material when other classic bands struggle just to put a couple of decent songs together?  Whatever the reason, this is such a great record that it deserves to sit right next to the first four MSG studio recordings and get just as much play.  The Calling is a very pleasant surprise and definitely going to be at the top of my ‘Best of 2004’ list.  If you’re an early MSG fan, Statetrooper is for you.