Balistic

Balistic

The new Balistic CD, "Transference," is the first to feature former Spellbound vocalist Mark McNelley. Now, I have their previous releases and I have seen them live. But, I've gotta tell you, this is, without a doubt, the best thing they've ever done.

The music is still heavy. But, it doesn't seem as dark as it used to be and there's a lot more energy coming from each song. The opening track, "Power," is the best of the bunch. It's catchy and it sticks with you the moment you hear it. The other tracks, "Purgatory," "One Of Seven," "Your World" and "I'm A Liar" are all equally strong.

There's also a bonus/hidden track that's really cool. In a recent interview, I asked Dave Fox what was up with that tune and this is what he had to say, "That is the "Rodeo Song," written by Garry Lee and Showdown from Canada. That was a huge country music hit in 1980. But, obviously, there were a lot of bleeps in it. We had wanted to do something in our live show to break up the crowd and show that we aren't serious all the time. I used to laugh my ass off every time I heard this tune. I brought it up to the guys and gave out some ideas about how we could jam it up. They added their own flavors and Mike does the lead vocals. In our live show, it's a highlight of the show. We all put on cowboy hats and act like idiots."

I'm gonna have to get out and catch a Balistic show again just to see that. Until that day comes, at least I've got this new release to keep me company. You should check it out, you won't be disappointed.

http://www.balistic.com