HOUSE OF LORDS – Full Tilt Overdrive

Classic hard rock band House of Lords debuted in the late ‘80s with their 1988 self-titled first album. They put out two more records, Sahara (1990) and Demons Down (1992), before splitting for almost a decade. Through Frontiers Music, the band have consistently been putting new studio albums that perfectly blend their modern edge and commercial, old-school charm into one. Examples include World Upside Down (2006), Come to My Kingdom (2008), Cartesian Dreams (2009), Big Money (2011), and Precious Metal (2014), etc. Thanks to a revamped lineup, House of Lords sound better than ever and they show no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Old-School Meets Modern Times

Now, they have Full Tilt Overdrive (2024), the follow-up to Saints & Sinners (2022), to add to their impressive repertoire. The album was produced by vocalist James Christian, along with his trusting sidekick and the band’s current keyboardist, Mark Mangold. As technological advancements develop further by the minute, the possibilities of making an album sound better are immense. For Full Tilt Overdrive, the production is very clear and crisp, polished but not overdone, and the guitars sound excellent. It’s like a late ‘80s album, but not really, if that makes sense?

Album opener “Crowded Room” centers on having multiple personalities, which is a brave topic to touch upon. The lyrics hit feelings on a personal level for someone that’s going through a rough time, mentally. Despite the sensitive subject matter, the melodies are ear-friendly and infectious. There are arena rockers like “Bad Karma” and “Cry of the Wicked,” the latter being a classic rock radio staple that could’ve been a hit back in the old days. Both have piercing guitar riffs, big backing vocals, melodic hooks, wicked guitar solos, and a sing-along chorus.

“Taking the Fall” is the country hit that Bon Jovi never wrote. Everything about this song sounds like Bon Jovi, from the powerful, anthemic chorus, to the country-fied, flavorful guitar licks. It also pays homage to the band’s biggest hit, “Can’t Find My Way Home,” a Blind Faith cover. “Not the Enemy” has a hard hitting beat that sounds like something coming from a college rave. It’s modern, heavy, loaded with keyboards and synths, and oddly catchy. The ballad, “I Don’t Wanna Say Goodbye,” covers another touchy subject, suicide. The person is considering ending their life, but is hesitant, knowing they have so much left to live for. “Castles High” is the adventurous and epic album closer, stretching nine minutes and 26 seconds, being the longest song on Full Tilt Overdrive.

Final Assessment

The musicianship on the album is incredible, especially the killer guitar playing of guitarist Jimi Bell, who has played a significant role in the House of Lords’ rebirth. Christian’s vocals aged like fine wine. He can’t hit all the high notes like before, but his soulful, raspy vocals more than make up for what he lacks. Besides, his current singing voice fits him well. Mangold’s keyboard parts ooze their way into the songs seamlessly, making his presence known without overdoing it. As a whole, Full Tilt Overdrive is another album that sums up where House of Lords are at currently. The songs are modern hard rock staples that also pay tribute to the band’s roots.

Album Tracklist

1. Crowded Room
2. Bad Karma
3. Cry of the Wicked
4. Full Tilt Overdrive
5. Taking the Fall
6. You’re Cursed
7. Not the Enemy
8. I Don’t Wanna Say Goodbye
9. Still Believe
10. State of Emergency
11. Castles High

Band Lineup

James Christian – lead vocals
Jimi Bell – guitars
Mark Mangold – keyboards
Johan Koleberg – drums