On Axel Rudi Pell's 22nd studio album ‘Risen Symbol’, the Bochum-based guitarist and songwriter continues to fly the melodic hard rock flag without watering down his style with pseudo-modern stylistic variations or expendable studio gimmicks. At the same time, he is constantly looking for new influences, exciting inspirations and catchy hooks.
One of the best things about Axel’s anthems is that they are perfectly tailored to the charismatic voice of frontman Johnny Gioeli. The American vocalist is one of the most eminent rock singers worldwide and, together with Axel, former Rainbow drummer Bobby Rondinelli, and longstanding members Ferdy Doernberg on keys, and bassist Volker Krawczak, Johnny has been an integral part of a perfectly oiled machine for more than ten years.
Within Axel’s characteristic mix of strong riffs and catchy melodies, his penchant for Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin in particular shines through on some of the new material.
The song ‘Ankhaia’, with its oriental flair, could easily have been recorded by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. Axel says, "To me, ‘Ankhaia’ is the number that Led Zeppelin forgot to compose. Although of course, 'Ankhaia' doesn’t come with a 70s sound, but has a contemporary flair and an awesome drum groove. I’m sure Page and Plant will love it when they hear it."
The second, more obvious reference on ‘Risen Symbol’ is the cover the Zeppelin classic ‘Immigrant Song’, albeit featuring their own arrangement.
* Alan Ovington's Rock Zone can be heard 7-9pm every Wednesday on 103.6FM Tameside Radio (repeated Friday 9-11pm) and On Demand at tamesideradio.com. More rock news at therockzone.net. Twitter @tamesiderock
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