The ample range of subgenres inside Glam Metal is amazing, and even with such fragmentation, the commercial success of the past and even now is a proof that the fans of it don’t care about subgenres. It’s a matter of “love it or leave it” for them, so it’s a fine lesson for Metal fans of all genres. And the Swedish quartet
MIKE MACHINE came to make the happiness of Glam Metal fans with
“Alive”, their first album.
They’re a talented band with some of its members being experienced musicians, what makes their Glam Metal with clear influences from AOR even more tasteful for the listener’s senses. Excellent melodies, good instrumental techniques, and with some moments that they play in a trend similar to successful those names from the late years of the 80s like
SKID ROW, GUNS N’ ROSES, but with references to
DEF LEPPARD’s
“Pyromania”/”Hysteria” age (as can be clearly heard on
“In Your Dream”).
The band produced, mixed and mastered the album having
Tommy Eliasson with them. In reality, they brought some of the features from the 80’s to the modern days (using the digital technologies), creating something that is clean and organic at the same time, but powerful and with the right touch of aggressiveness. There’s a strong accessible scent permeating every song of
“Alive” (that isn’t a live album). But the excellent chorus and AOR influence of
“Alive” (very good chorus and vocals), the charming and almost Pop Rock touch on the melodies of
“Paradise” (very good presence of bass guitar, and the wise use of some clean guitar parts), the purest and accessible Pop scent of
“In Your Dream”, the savage energy of
“Fireball” and
“Living On the Road” (two nasty shots with very good vocals and rhythmic works), and the Hard ‘n’ Nasty grasp of “No More” are the finest ones, besides the entire album is truly addictive!
MIKE MACHINE is a very good and promising name, so let
“alive” make you feel alive and kicking!
Originality: 8
Songwriting: 9
Memorability: 9
Production: 8
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