So Q5 return for album number 3, a mere 31 years since the cult classic When The Mirror Cracks first appeared.
The Seattle rockers reformed for Sweden Rock Fest a few years back and decided to try and keep things going, with 3 original members joined by a new drummer and second guitarist.
The band’s sophomore album saw them gain a cult following with its more keyboard infused melodic rock, a definite change of pace from the rawer 4-chord rock n roll of Steel The Light.
So which Q5 do we have in 2016? I’d best describe this album as a mix of the heavier AC/DC style of Steel The Light and something new. There really isn’t anything here that finds influence from When The Mirror Cracks. Personally I find that a shame, as it’s the album I clearly preferred by the guys.
The reality is that New World Order is an ok album for what it is – a raw, dirty, rock n roll album with gravelly vocals and a riffing guitar dominated sound – but is that what Q5 fans were awaiting?
It’s definitely a classic rock album – there’s some Uriah Heep, some AC/DC, some NWOBHM influences – it’s pretty easy to get the picture.
There are some ok song, but not enough to make it an essential purchase. They are all pretty simple bar-room boogie hard rockers, a couple of double time shufflers and a couple of slower moments too.
I’m not warming to this album though. The songs are very basic and very raw production doesn’t give the music a lift that might have helped. I’m not feeing the vocals and I’m not feeling the overall vibe either. To be honest, it’s not a band recognizable from the past. It’s a new take on an old name.
