Axel Rudi Pell – Game of Sins Release Date: January 15, 2016 Record Label: SPV Steamhammer
Since first hearing him nearly six years ago, Axel Rudi Pell has become one of my favorite heavy metal artists. Backed by a monstrous band featuring Bobby Rondinelli on drums and long time vocalist Joey Gioelli, Axel Rudi Pell’s timeless guitar tone and epic metal songwriting is something that definite is somewhat of a formula. I don’t say this as a bad thing because some formulas are just not meant to be tweaked. AC/DC, The Ramones, they all had formulas that worked and for the past 20 years or so, Axel Rudi Pell’s “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality has turned out some truly remarkable metal albums.
On his latest release Game of Sins, that formula has carried over but for some reason, the songs on this album grabbed me more than any of his previous albums since The Crest. Opening with a signature “intro” and then kicking into a face melting opening track is part of that formula that works but on this album, “Fire” just really grabbed me. The hooks, the soaring chorus, that sick as fuck guitar tone, everything about this song is Axel Rudi Pell but stronger than he’s been in years.
The Black Sabbath influenced “Game of Sins” and ” Till The World Says Goodbye ” were nice departures from the formula of this album. These songs very well may be two of the best songs of his career and as of right now my favorite Axel Rudi Pell songs since “Mystica” and “The Devil Zone.” I also have to note that the band sounds absolutely fantastic as always but for some reason I sense more comfort and a stronger connection in this line up. Once again, drummer Bobby Rondinelli’s drumming stands so tall in this recording. I love his more authentic and natural sound way more than the over processed and digital sound of former drummer Mike Terrana. Rondinelli seemed to be the missing piece of the puzzle that has completed this puzzle.
All in all, Game of Sins is an awesome album and by far my favorite Axel Rudi Pell release since The Crest. Axel is on top of his songwriting game and managed to piece together a fantastic piece of classic heavy metal with modern production. When I listen to Axel Rudi Pell, I am reminded of why I feel in love with heavy metal in the first place. Game of Sins takes us back to a time when metal was melodic, tasteful, and all about the song. Game of Sins is also a reminder to all that the old dogs can still do it and do it better than most.
I have been running this blog since 2009. AKA as the Great Southern Brainfart, Southeast of Heaven is my baby now and forever. I’ve had my ups and downs with bands over the years but they are all great experiences and memories. My Swedish friend Charlie said once, “Don is known for being one of the meanest bastards in American rock journalism.” It’s nice to be loved.
I also once took a shit in Anthrax’s dressing room toilet and didn’t flush.
