PAGANINI – Medicine Man

Mentioning the name Paganini one might think of the Italian violin/guitar virtuoso and composer Nicolo Paganini (1782 – 1840). However, this release is not from the classical genius but from the Swiss vocalist Marco Paganini, known for fronting the band Tygers Of Pan Tang in the 80s. He was later discovered by Rudolf and Michael Schenker’s sister, who invited him to join her band Viva. Marco recorded two albums with her before he went on to pursue his solo career. So far he has released several albums with his own band. Now he has another album out entitled Medicine Man.

The title track is the one that opens the album. It’s a moody piano ballad, could remind you of Elton John actually. It’s a bit of a whiny voice the listener is presented with, his voice does have a lot of potential but it gets too monotone. Following in the same path is some other ballads. “Teardrops” is another average ballad. Nothing you haven’t heard before, yet it’s a fine piece of music though. Following this one they speed up a bit with the high school-Punk inspired “The Only One”.

Most of the music heading from this record is sweet as sugar, so if you’re looking for something that can be considered a bit heavy you might want to hear “Stomping Ground”. This song features some great riffs and an outstanding, rocking guitar solo. It seems that Nicolo’s voice fits this expression better than the ballads because of his aggressive-sounding voice. Another tune that could fit the taste of the heavy-loving audience may be “Faith Healer” which is a step towards Metal. It features grandiose keyboards and aggressive guitars.

Medicine Man is one of those albums that will blend into history unremembered. There’s nothing special about it, and because of the striking similarities most of the songs have, it becomes absolutely insignificant. Paganini – Medicine Man; don’t bother.

1. Medicine Man
2. The Secret
3. End Of The Line
4. Teardrops
5. The Only One
6. Keeping It Real
7. Easy Come Easy Go
8. Stomping Ground
9. I Don’t Want Your Love
10. Faith Healer
11. Faith Healer (extended)

Lineup

Marc Paganini
Diego Rapacchietti
Kiki Crétin
Dale Powers