Way back in the early 1980s when NWOBHM was at its peak a band named after an old London mental institution – Coney Hatch – sprang to life in Canada. The “loudest band in Toronto” they were right up there with the next big things of the day and it looked good bagging a support slot to Iron Maiden.
The Hatch’s first two albums were remarkable indeed. That slightly offbeat, quirky Canadian heaviness rang true though as with many it didn’t quite work out for Carl Dixon’s boys. A third album – Friction – was more AOR though had its moments before Coney Hatch was no more………….or were they….as now they are back with a new album – Four – and a mighty one it is too.
I’ve always had a bit of a fondness for Canadian rock bands (Maple Leaf Mayhem if you will…..) along my NWOBHM. Rush, Triumph, Helix etc and Coney Hatch too. So when Four came out a few days ago it was an essential purchase, which is exactly what it’s proved to be.
After the best part of three decades the original line-up of Carl Dixon, Steve Shelski, Andy Curran and Dave Ketchum has recorded a killer comeback. Full of well crafted strong songs, meaty, chunky chord structures, Shelski’s lead breaks are great. Economical without being flashy for the sake of it though do all pack a punch. The Curran/Ketchum rhythm section is hypnotic. Big, catchy in your head choruses too. It’s an all around monster.
The opener – Blown Away – has a sort of AC/DC thing going on. Boys Club is a nice “fun” song with a slow burning chugging pace to it. Connected is the highlight for me. I defy anyone not to shout along with the chorus. Marseille also. The whole album is nothing short of superb, high class hard/melodic rock from a band which most certainly still has it after a 28 year absence.
There’s not a weak moment on the whole album. Often once can build up something and have unrealistic expectations of a new release from an old favourite’s comeback and then be disappointed. This does not happen with Four. Just the opposite. Expectations well and truly met. Exceeded even. Forgive me cliché to finish with: all killer, no filler.
>> CHECK OUT CONEY HATCH FOUR HERE <<
Please support us and buy us a coffee.
