Here we have a well-kept secret from the other side of the Atlantic. Wanted is a relatively new band that has managed to assimilate all the influences from the golden era of the 80’s in the best way possible. And they may emphasize that they are “just a band that plays old school metal” but the truth is that Wanted have more in common with bands like Dokken and Ratt and if we had to put a label for their style of playing, it would definitely be hard n’ heavy.
“Late Attraction” is their second album after the very good “Chain Reaction”. These guys from Oxford Township, Michigan appear improved and put their soul into an album that could have easily been released in 1987! Vocalist Sterling Primeau is fantastic with a tone that is eerily reminiscent of Don Dokken while guitarist Alan Mares definitely worships George Lynch, Warren DeMartini and Vito Bratta. But Wanted’s great asset is the songs themselves as they are all well-written, thoughtful and well-crafted in every detail. You would even swear that these are outtakes from “Under Lock and Key” or “Back For The Attack”! And if you’re not convinced by all that, listen to “Lost in the Night” below and you’ll understand. My only objection is the merely OK production but that’s perfectly reasonable from a band that releases their work independently. If Wanted had put out this material 35 years ago they would certainly have had better luck. Personally, I hope they pull it off because they more than deserve it! Well done, guys! For more info: https://wantedbandofficial.bandcamp.com/
Highlight: The band’s previous singer, Nate Peck, had appeared on American Idol in a stirring rendition of “When The Lightning Strikes”.
