When the guitar chimes in and the kick reverberates in your ears you know you’re hearing sweet, sweet rock and roll music. “Rock and Roll” kicks off with Jordan Cutajar’s call to arm: “Let’s rock and roll!!” He’s got that Brian Johnson quality to his voice, and immediately lends credence to their brand of hard rock. The production is clear as crystal, and delivers a satisfying punch. I was immediately eager to hear more.

I love how Benjamin Mann rides the high hat in the verses on “In Good Hands”. The rhythm guitar, punctuated with the tick-tick-tick of tightly picked strings makes for a dynamic groove, and when the solo pops out it is tastefully executed. Andy La Morte, you have a new fan! The overall impression is that these musicians are like the master craftsman who distils the best broth from hand-picked ingredients.

Rainforce come out strutting in “Stay Strong”, and I enjoyed how Matt Brand’s bass licks popped out in the mix. The message is clear: “It is no sign of weakness when we bow our heads… when we kneel and pray.” An empowering message from a band that will surely see fists pumping at their gigs.

“The Lost Sheep” showcases another side of Rainforce. It’s like I’m sitting around the campfire, snug and reassured. The accordion is a nice touch.

It’s been a great listening experience, and in my mind’s eye I see the crowd chanting, “More! More! More!”

“Rock and Roll” scores 9/10.

Written by Karakul

Track Listing:
1. Rock and Roll
2. In Good Hands
3. Stay Strong
4. The Lost Sheep

Band members:
Jordan Cutajar: lead vocals
Andy La Morte: guitars
Matt Brand: bass
Benjamin Mann: drums, keyboards

Record label: Roxx Records, Quam Libet Records

Release Date: 22 March 2019

Studio albums/EPs:|
“Lion’s Den” (full-length, 2017) [review]
“Rock and Roll” (EP, 2019)

Weblinks: Facebook

Buy the album here:
Holland: First Paradox
Norway: Nordic Mission

Lyric video for ‘Rock And Roll’