XYZ Xyz - CD

FORMAT: CD CAT. #: AX1005150 YEAR: 2010 LABEL: Axe Killer CODE: -

Digitally remastered reissue of the metal act's 1989 debut album, produced by Don Dokken. 11 tracks including one bonus track, 'On The Blue Side Of The Night'.

REVIEW:

2010 reissue of the 1989 debut of American glam metal band "XYZ" and a classic of the particular scene. Reissued by the French Axe Killer label, the album comes in a digibook (book-like cover), which looks really stylish one has to admit, plus the inclusion of a bonus 11th track.

The competitive advantage of this release, that makes the re-purchase worthwhile, is the breathtaking audio quality of this re-mastered version. The sound is stunning; it is easily comparable to the best current melodic rock productions delivering a clean, thick and high-volume sound with all the riffs, drum fills and choruses sounding more powerful than one would ever expect. The liner notes verify that the album has been re-mastered at `Translab' without any further clarification or comment whatsoever. This reissue does perfect justice to this classic 80s hard rock album and on that count I am totally impressed by the label's commitment.

As most are aware the line up features lead singer Terry Ilous, guitarist Marc Richard Diglio, bassist Pat Fontaine and drummer Paul Monroe while the original production was handled by Don Dokken. Equally well known is the powerful glam-hard rock approach of "XYZ" with the occasional bluesy influences that are considered characteristic of the band.

Despite the high price, `XYZ' is an exemplary reissue that should set new standards for any forthcoming re-release. It is definitely worth the purchase even by fans owning the original printing of the `XYZ" debut.

Review by Nikiforos V. Skoumas

TRACK LISTING:

1  A Maggy   
2  Inside Out    
3  What Keeps Me Loving You   
4  Take What You Can   
5  Follow The Night   
6  Come On N' Love Me   
7  Souvenirs   
8  Tied Up   
9  Nice Day To Die   
10  After The Rain   
11  On The Blue Side Of The Night