All the way back in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal heyday, the band called Soldier were one of many battling for recognition. It didn’t work out for them at the time (a whole other story) though to give even more evidence that NWOBHM lives on and on – Soldier main man Ian Dick and his band mates have just released a killer new CD – Dogs of War – which is a fine piece of updated NWOBHM with a fresh sound. Modern retro (or is that a contradiction….?). Ian kindly sent me a review copy – if he hadn’t I’d have more than gladly bought one – it really is very good and, one hopes, brings Soldier some notice and success.
Whilst retaining a classic new Wave of British heavy Metal feel, Dogs of War spruces it up a bit so it’s all fresh sounding without losing any of its power. After a couple or three listens you will be nodding your head, tapping your feet, singing along and even perhaps a little air guitar if you’re in to all that (I’m too old of course). I think this CD has the lot – it’s hard, heavy, melodic, catchy and other similar adjectives. The twin guitar work is a particular feature and in a Spinal Tap like moment, Ian tells the story in the case notes of how guitarist Miles Goodman was found in the local ironmongery shop. He frets up a storm too does Miles. He and Ian with some fine interplay.
Anyway – the music…..opens with the title track. A real “in yer face” assault of a big riff, a big voice (Richard Frost “really wails” ….. if I may borrow a little from Wayne’s World) and a solid rhythm section of Steve Barlow and Alex Smith keep it tight. Straight out of the blocks with a killer opener.
Ten other cuts do the same to keep things nicely up tempo and intelligent without being flashy for the sake of it. It’s all well crafted rock with that over-arching NWOBHM tinge and a real pleasure to listen to. Fireflies could be a single with its catchy, sing-along chorus. Bedlam has a great epic feeling to it with some extended guitar work. Other highlights – er, well everywhere and a storming No Mans Land brings the main cuts to a close.
Bonus tracks: There’s a freshly recorded version of Soldier’s original classic Sheralee which shows what a top tune it was/still is, a nice instrumental ending with a sort of half-folksy Hanging Tree.
Available from Soldier’s web site (http://www.soldiernwobhm.com) Dogs of War is a seriously recommended purchase regardless of if you like your NWOBHM or just like your hard rock with a touch of class.
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