Redrum - Victims Of Our Circumstances

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REDRUM is a melodic Hard Rock band from Thessaloniki, Greece and the inner land of Germany. Athan “Lyssa” Kazakis and Panos Baxevanis founded it in September 2003 and German vocalist, songwriter, producer and engineer Michael Bormann (ex-JADED HEART, J.R. Blackmore, BONFIRE, ZENO ROTH, RAIN AND BLOODHOUND) has also been a key member. Their debut album "No Turning Back" was released back in September 2007. Now it is time for the second, “Victims of Our Circumstances”.

The magnificent “One of Us” opens the gates for another newfound experience. “Scream” kicks off with vengeance, caressing with nice guitar riffing, memorable chorus and an overall Rockin' sound straight from the 80s. Alex Kidd knocks hard on the bass and skinman, Thanos Sarketzis, masters his craft. The first thing that came to my mind is WHITESNAKE. Catchy as hell “You Can't Buy No Hero” is brilliant cracker, escalating the album's décor with great melodic chorus with AOR chants, Athan "Lyssa" Kazakis and Panos Baxevanis share splendours of soloing. “Dust in Your Eyes”, also on video, where we can listen to acoustic and softer sounds right from the get go. Then we have oriental keys played by Marco Grasshoff, stronger riffs and great atmosphere. Michael Bormann is unstoppable letting loose outlooks of DEEP PURPLE, WHITESNAKE, BON JOVI, JADED HEART and BONFIRE. “Victims of Our Circumstances” shares twin ballads: the melodic “Empty Promises” with echoes from AEROSMITH and “Mother I'm Coming Home”. This serene song shows Bormann at his prime, he is so perfect singing acapella, gentle piano and a fine rhythm section, incredible guitar solo, astonishing lyrics and an exalted chorus. “Tear Down the Walls” hovering above with symphonic elements, great sound and hook laden guitar riffs. “Pokerface” somewhat reminded me of LADY GAGA's hit single, yet this one has stronger riffs, grand keyboards and perfect rhythm section. Title track “Victims of Our Circumstances” opens like a Country song, Bormann again proving his worth and diversity. This is a really wonderful song that tributes to all that is beautiful in Hard Rock music. There is also a tweak of oriental type singing with drums and also a fantastic guitar solo.

Also worth listening are: “Have a Nice Day” demonstrating Blues elements and a massive guitar solo, “You're The Voice” the dangerous meeting between hard riffs and atmospheric keyboards. “Dirty White Boy”, with heavier riffs, memorable chorus and very melodic climate of true Hard Rock.

 “Victims Of Our Circumstances” is the ground beyond the common Hard Rock. In my opinion it is very enjoyable, well produced and quite matured. The more I listen, the more I like it, melody pours out from this CD. 12 killer songs of this album will be surely amazing gift for fans of Melodic Hard Rock and fans of Hard Rock from '80 and fans of WHITESNAKE, BON JOVI, JADED HEART, DEEP PURPLE, DOKKEN, GOTTHARD or BONFIRE. Highly recommend.