ZINNY J. ZAN - City Boy Blues

Posted: 1/24/03

Reviewed by: Lynn Phillips

Category: 70s & 80s Hard Rock

Released: 2003

Label URL: www.fastlanerecords.com

Artist URL:

Zinny J. Zan was the original vocalist for 80s glam rockers Shotgun Messiah. Their music was loud, obnoxious cock-rock at its best and that's exactly what I expected from Zinny's solo debut. Well, imagine my surprise when the vocals and music sounded like something from a 70's Thin Lizzy record. I actually thought I put in the wrong disc. After reading the booklet, it's apparent that Zinny is a huge Thin Lizzy fan (he dedicated the album to Phil Lynott), so I do accept the style on this solo effort. But Shotgun Messiah fans should take note because Zinny's solo project has nothing in common with his former band. Zinny is almost a dead ringer for Lynott and I wouldn't be shocked to see him fronting a Thin Lizzy cover band somewhere. About half the songs do have a 70's feel to them, and while that's partially due to the shallow production, it's obvious that many songs intentionally sound that way. Most importantly, the somewhat flat production doesn't detract from the overall listening enjoyment. Not all the songs are flashbacks to the 70's though, because there are also several 80's style hard rock songs present too. These tunes have heavy, faster riffs, ripping solos and catchy choruses that provide an energetic kick to the disc. This diversity actually makes for an unexpectedly enjoyable listening experience.

The Bloody Truth: As a whole, Zinny J. Zan has created a very respectable retro sounding release that's a refreshing change from all the overplayed genres today.