LEATHER – II

Both existing Leather Leone fans and new, metal-leaning listeners will enjoy the straight-forward, New Wave of British Heavy Metal meets Classic Speed Metal songs of II. Under the name Leather, this is, in some ways, a follow-up to Leather Leone’s first solo album, Shock Waves, way back in 1989. Stylistically, II is 100% 80s Heavy Metal, and sounds as if it could have been released several decades ago. Coming from a long established artist like Leather Leone, this will be a treat for long-time fans. Leone’s vocal performance is strong and consistent through the album, and the dual guitar attack of Vinnie Tex and Daemon Ross perfectly capture the spirit and aggressiveness of 80s era shred. The band is completed by bassist Thiago Velasquez and percussionist Braulio Drumond, both of whom perform their duties admirably.

With a strong track like “Juggernaut” kicking off the album, there’s no mistaking what this album is about: 100% ass-kicking, unapologetic, 80s metal mayhem. Following in quick succession, “Lost At Midnite” and “Black Smoke” keep the pace high, before II delves into power ballad territory with “Annabelle”. More headbanging tracks are to come, along with “Let Me Knell” which sits firmly in the Speed Metal  zone.

Taken as a whole, II is a much needed and well-executed addition to Leather Leone’s catalog. While fans of modern metal styles will find this release rather dated sounding and derivative, Classic Metal fans will be right at home.

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