Do you remember the end of the ‘90s, beginning of the ‘90s with all those tribute albums that were spreading like a disease on heavy metal? Where there were almost the same musicians involved, like Bruce Kulick for instance?
That’s what this release reminded me , where you will find some great names in heavy metal to be honest, but with the extensive participation of some musicians that’s becoming a parody. I don’t know how differently I could describe Tim “Ripper” Owens’ involvement in 8 out of the 11 in total tracks…
The other three singers are: Serj Tankian, Testament’s Chuck Billy and Randy’s brother, Kelle. System Of A Down singer appears on the album’s most interesting track, because it’s slightly different from the original- “Crazy Train” with Tom Morello on guitar and tribute album veteran, Vinny Appice. Guitar and drums make the difference, while the vocals show that’s not an easy job to sing like the madman!
From then on, unfortunately, we have one of the same. Well played covers from real monsters of the field (and of course Bruce Kulick is involved!) that are faithful copies of the original songs. Same solos, same playing, and Ripper’s vocals on almost the entire album.
Chuck Billy is close to make a difference with the way he sings on “Mr. Crawley”, while another interesting point is the two Quiet Riot songs that are part of this tribute album. Also, “our own” Gus G, Ozzy’s current guitarist and therefore Randy’s heir plays on “Goodbye To Romans”.
I suppose and I hope that the DVD that comes in the Deluxe edition of the album, which contains interviews with the participating musicians and a documentary about the music school Randy’s mother established as a tribute to her son is a good motive to buy this release. Otherwise, prefer “Bat Head Soup”, although more Ozzy-oriented.
