Obscure NWOBHM Releases have pulled out yet another “lost” one from the good old New Wave of British Heavy Metal glory years of the 1980s. This time it’s December Rose who get the treatment.
The band formed in the early 1980s and based themselves around the Gloucestershire area. Hard work built up quite a local following and the attraction of record companies.
An album was recorded – though not released apparently justified by the record company due to the prominence of “grunge” at the time which was much in favour and not good old NWOBHM.
December Rose sort of faded away after that – however now thanks to the efforts of Obscure NWOBHM Releases we can enjoy what the band had to offer – and it’s rather excellent stuff too.
The title track kicks it off. You can probably guess what it’s about by the cover art. A dramatic sounding song with a pulsing riff, changes of pace, blistering guitar work and outstanding rangy vocals. Indeed – the vocals throughout are first class indeed. Powerful and controlled.
Running Back has another chunky riff and a giant chorus then Break in the Ice speeds along nicely with both songs featuring more excellent guitar work amongst the hooks. Have a listen.
I Need It breaks out in to rap territory at time with the bass driving the song – simple yet hypnotic. Dream Forever could have been a good choice for a single then Gods of the Underworld come in as a thumping heavy as you like monster with a soaring vocal.
Tonight is to the point before Never gradually increases the tempo in to quite a head of steam.
Throughout the album the band show a skilful and varied approach to their song writing and musical ability with no two songs sounding the same. Much variety with each one giving much to enjoy.
Make no mistake – all the evidence here on Leaving Home shows a band with so much ability. Such a pity that “grunge” got in the way and stopped them in their tacks with the non-release of the album.
As is usual with Obscure NWOBHM Releases – this is a limited run with just 600 CDs available.
As I post this review, the label’s web site has copies available as do Sonic Age Records. Links below:
https://onreleases.bigcartel.com/
https://www.sonicagerecords.com/_shop/
Do check December Rose out. It’s top drawer stuff and yet another band from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal days back in the 1980s who should have made it out of the pack.