Lynch Mob - The Brotherhood (Rat Pak Records)

 by Matman

In 1990 George Lynch and Don Dokken realised they couldn't function within the same band, Dokken.  In the inevitable picking of sides I chose Don... because I followed singers and it was his voice that was my favorite element of the band.  Following the release of both their solo albums I found myself drawn to Lynch Mob's WICKED SENSATION, a perfect album that I still enjoy to this day.  Unjustly I have been judging George Lynch's entire career on that album; solo, KXM, Sweet & Lynch, Dokken and anything under the Lynch Mob banner.  Nothing has given me the same musical thrill... until now!!

THE BROTHERHOOD is the latest from Lynch Mob and features Lynch, vocalist Oni Logan, bassist Sean McNabb and drummer Jimmy D'Anda putting on a performing, songwriting and production clinic.  From the fury of the first release 'Main Offender' to the sentimental final track, 'Miles Away', THE BROTHERHOOD feels like a true band project where the songs come first.  There is the classic 'Lynch' sound sprinkled throughout , but here everyone gets their moment to shine.  Logan's voice still has that rich quality; smooth as glass but when needed... tough and full of attitude.  The vibe that plays throughout the recording is of spontaneity and fun especially on 'Last Call Lady', 'Until The Sky Comes Down' and my favorite on the album, 'I'll Take Miami'.  The unsung heroes here are McNabb and D'Anda who give everyone a place to shine, but keeps the whole thing on point. What would you expect from two guys that played with some of our favorite bands like House Of Lords and Bullet Boys.     

My first few listens gave me the thought that this is the true follow-up to WICKED SENSATION in its presentation and delivery. THE BROTHERHOOD sounds and feels like it was recorded back in the late 1980's with flash and swagger.  If i strip my thoughts to their most basic it sounds like early Van Halen with that 'us against the world' mentality and the party atmosphere.  

Well done boys... another contender for Album Of The Year!!!      

Main Offender
Mr. Jekyll and Hyde
I'll Take Miami
Last Call Lady
Where We Started
The Forgotten Maiden's Pearl
Until the Sky Comes Down
Black Heart Days
Black Mountain
Dog Town Mystics
Miles Away
Until I Get My Gold (bonus track)

THE BROTHERHOOD will be released on Rat Pak Records September 8th, 2017 in several formats.  If you go to www.ratpakrecords.com you can preorder the album as well as get some awesome bundles!

Thank you to Kevin Chiaramonte for his faith!!!