Skid Row, The Gang’s All Here Review

Skid Row is back with their anticipated new studio album, The Gang’s All Here. The New Jersey kids with punk and metal attitudes that conquered the 80s with hits like “18 and Life” and “Youth Gone Wild” have returned, with Erik Grönwall replacing ZP Theart as the frontman to bring us ten new songs. The Gang’s All Here focuses on their trademark sound of twin guitars and strong vocals, Grönwall (formerly of H.E.A.T, one of the best frontmen of this era) joining the family. The ten songs were produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Rush, Alice In Chains, Halestorm, Evanescence), and the relationship pays off with a sound that is energized and solidly in the Hard Rock spectrum.

A fantastic guitar riff and band hits open the album with “Hell or High Water,” and instantly tune your ears to the big sounds that Raskulinecz captured in the studio. The energy is high, and Grönwall’s vocals fit the band.

“Time Bomb” has an attitudinal groove driven by bassist Rachel Bolan’s thumping baseline. The song is a straight-ahead heavy metal affair with strong singing by Grönwall. His tone and delivery capture the vibe and energy. The interlude and guitar solo are all excellent.

Bolan and guitarist Snake Sabo say, “we are beyond excited to release this record. It has been a long time in the making, and a lot of hard work has been put into it by the band and our producer Nick Raskulinecz. And the addition of Erik has lifted the songs to new heights.” The work has created a straight-up collection of fresh 80s sounds. Just check out “Resurrected” and “Tear It Down.”

Overall, The Gang’s All Here has ample crunch, attitude, and melody to satisfy any rocker’s appetite for 80s heavy metal. Grönwall’s vocals are a beautiful addition to the band’s sound and fit where one would think Skid Row would evolve after the decades. Rock on, The Gang’s All Here, which should include YOU too! That’s the short of it!

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