Life as we Know It
Five years after releasing their debut album, StoneWire are back with an incredible follow up, ‘Life as we Know It’. With Sky Hunter delivering a stunning vocal performance, the whole band deliver an exceptional album. StoneWire is Sky along with Gaz Annable and Duncan Greenway on guitars, Steve Briggs on bass and Rob Glasner on drums.
The album really hits the ground running with the first track ‘Monkey Talk’, beginning with a really dirty blues guitar riff and then a lead guitar part that would be at home as part of any AC/DC track, then Sky’s vocals kick in. What a voice, Sky has something special. I don’t want to say a she is a blues rock powerhouse, because everyone says that, instead I will say, Sky’s vocals quite literally will blow you away! Yes that good. The song slows mid way through and we have a little bass solo, followed by another explosion of sound, which then drives the song to the end.
Up next is a slower, but equally as passionate track, ‘One for the Road’. A song for those late nights, when you give in and have that one more drink that you probably shouldn’t have drank! The guitar work is excellent and the rhythm section is stunning. The bass and drums are really driving things forward, so important, but so often overlooked! What a great song with great lyrics talking about a heavy touring schedule and being a ‘slave to the road’.
The first single from the album, ‘FTM’ is up next. Another great intro riff leading into an angsty song sticking it to the man! Because that’s the true spirit of Rock and Roll – Jack Black taught us that in School of Rock afterall! What a great track. Energetic, punchy and simply brilliant.
The album continues, I have to mention ‘Hero’s Journey’, a near on seven minute epic, beginning with a stunning vocal harmony that leads into another great guitar part and then Sky comes in. This is blues rock heaven. I love it. The song returns to the opening theme a few times throughout, giving the feeling of being on a journey and passing time. The song is a glorious slow build that takes you on an almighty trip.
Another highlight on the album is ‘Kick Up Some Dust’. This is classic rock territory; this is one of those songs that in 50 years time we will play to our grandchildren to demonstrate that “songs in my day were better!” It really is a future classic. I love it, my album highlight I’d say!
The album closes with ‘A Step Too Far’. This is a punchy track, that will get your head bobbing and foot tapping. Great guitar work and Sky’s vocal delivery is as usual, perfect. A brilliant song to end the album with with a killer instrumental in the middle!!
What a great album by StoneWire. Great musicianship, coupled with excellent performance from the entire band. What a great addition to anyone’s record collection, for lovers of classic rock, blues and anything in between. I challenge you to listen to this album without a smile on your face. I couldn’t, I enjoyed it too much!
Released By 22:11 Records
Released On 1st November
