first review...

Joined: 19 May 2007 Posts: 6

Diamond head have always done things slightly differently to other bands. Unable to generate any interest from record labels, they produced their own self financed album 'lightning to the nation' which instantly got rave reviews from the critics and is still widely regarded as one of the most influential metal albums of all time.

When they signed to MCA records, the record company wanted a more radio friendly sound and the band which had been touted as the natural successors to Led Zeppelin imploded after just two albums; 'Borrowed time' and 'Canterbury'

A reformation in the early '90s brought us 'Death and progress' and a live outing 'Evil live recorded at a support slot for Metallica.

Roll on a few years more and Brian [Tatler] is back as the sole surviving original member, to date this new incarnation of the band has produced the fine 'all will be revealed' and a live CD 'It's electric' Now the band has a brand new album 'What's in your head'

The new record is instantly recognizable as Diamond Head, yet at times it is heavier than anything they have done previously (check out the album opener 'Skin on Skin' and 'pray for me') there are also slower paced tracks like the excellent 'Reign supreme' and 'calling out'

The title track could have fitted in on the 'death and progress' album, but is much more gritty and is easily up there with the best of the tracks from that album. As a whole, the album has a fresh and urgent feel and even when the guitars have a distinct retro feel, the drums and the bass are bang up to date and even funky at times.

For a band with a history like Diamond head's, it can be difficult to get past the constant references to their first album, that album was the best part of 30 years ago now and stands the test of time due to the influence it has had on generations of musicians since, this album cannot fairly be compared to the first as times have changed. In its own right, it is a solid album witch is already growing on me after two times round, it has all the right ingredients to be a classic DH album and like so many before, it will probably be criminally over looked and won't get any airplay through the normal channels.

For those in the know, this will be a secret worth sharing... go out and get a copy as you will not only be supporting a great band, but you will be purchasing hours of listening pleasure!!!

Available now on Cargo records (I got mine off the shelf at W H Smiths and it is available through other shops and online