Lillian Axe – XI: The Days
Before Tomorrow
MRI, February 2012
9/10
Lillian Axe has
been on a roll for the last few years, and that streak continues with the
release of XI: The Days Before Tomorrow.
Guitarist and band leader Steve Blaze has always had a formidable challenge in
replacing powerhouse vocalist Ron Taylor who sang on the band’s most well-known
recordings (including 1993’s amazing Psychoschizophrenia
album), and I thought the most recent vocalist, Derrick LeFevre, was a great
fit for the band. Derrick’s now out, and in comes Brian Jones to man the mike.
Although initially skeptical, Brian’s also an awesome singer with a fantastic
high range that immediately won me over. Steve and the rest of the band
continue to write quality, consistent material that never disappoints. The Days Before Tomorrow contains every
you’d expect from Lillian Axe – great, melodic hard rock, spine-tingling
melodies, and amazing guitar work that’s not over the top. Everything about
this album exudes class and attention to detail. Most of the songs are slow to
mid-tempo, and all have an energetic vibe that makes the album a pleasure to
listen to. The clear highlight for me is “Death Comes Tomorrow”, a mellow song
that incorporates piano and builds into an incredible, haunting melody in the
chorus. Album opener “Babylon” and “Lava On My Tongue” are also standouts that
showcase the heavier side of the band. Take it all together and The Days Before Tomorrow is yet another top
addition to the band’s catalog. Most fans of melodic hard rock are already at
least familiar with Lillian Axe, and if you aren’t you owe it to yourself you
give a listen to this vastly underrated band.
Here's some pictures of Lillian Axe performing August 25, 2009 at Primetime in Burnsville. Click here to read my review of that show.
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