As faithful readers and rock aficionados know, there has been a revival of the 80's glam/sleaze/melodic rock and metal around the world. Scandinavian bands have bolstered this long absent genre in the last five years (or more). England has also contributed to this trend with such bands aa the Towers Of London. Here in America, the movement has been a little slower to arise. Yet, the trend is growing. San Francisco's Miss Crazy is one band that is proudly displaying and playing well this great style. This foursome unabashedly looks to the past and draws inspiration from the likes of Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Kiss in presence and Def Leppard, AC/DC, Kix, Cinderella, Poison, and Motley Crue in in musical style. Their second release, simply titled 'II,' draws deeply from this historical well.
Immediately, you will notice the vocals of guitarist Markus Allen Christopher. His raspy voice reminds you of a blend of Vince Neil and Bret Michaels. How he can maintain this delivery from song to song, or from gig to gig may give you significant consternation. Yet, his vocals are strong and fitting for Miss Crazy' formidable rock and roll style. And this is what impressed me most about Miss Crazy: drawing from the classics, their song craftsmanship shows fluency and inspiration.
Now for the songs: I'll give you a simple direction: follow the even numbers. This may sound odd (a pun intended), but the highlights of 'II' follow this route. For instance, 'Mow' is a brilliant melodic number that verges on metal. 'Living' Without You' delivers a catchy melody within straight rock. 'Make You Mine' is a rough and ready number that reminds you of Motley Crue. This is not to say that the other songs are mundane or mediocre. 'The River' is a perfectly heavy number that still inspires. 'Don't Walk Away' and 'Left Me Here To Die' are the closest songs to ballads; the former is smooth, the latter has a harder groove. The best work begins about track eight because of the exceptional lead guitar work. 'Can't Sleep' is a full throttle rock and roll number with a great vocal arrangement and a driving rhythm section.
There is much to enjoy on Miss Crazy's 'II.' I was very impressed and pleased from beginning to end. Miss Crazy certainly knows their history and their own style; they play with sincerity and passion. Very recommended! Find it and buy it!
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