This S/T album from the power trio known as FALCON rocks and rocks hard. I flipped this thing over at first thinking it was a Monster Underground re-release of some 70s obscurity. Yeah, the purists would most likely have a hard time with this one. In fact, I'm amazed that this thing is being released in 2004 myself! Perry Grayson's vocals are deep, and full of dark colors and tones. In fact, he reminds me a little of Bobby Liebling in spots, which fits perfectly with the basslines of former CIRITH UNGOL member Greg Lindstrom. In the unlikely event that you're a power metal fan reading this review, you may remember Grayson from his work in James Rivera's rather unimpressive post-HELSTAR project DESTINY'S END. Well, judging from this lil' frisbee, Grayson has found his calling! The licks here are pure 1971 Gibson rock candy. Even your strictest classic rock junkies should flip for this one.

"Half Past Human" sounds like some unearthed bonus track from the first RUSH album, but frankly I prefer Grayson's vocals to Geddy's! "Route 666" (as you may guess from the title) is pure roll-down-the-windows-and-speed-down-the-highway kinda riff rock. The riffs remind me of POOBAH a bit on that one. I'm playing more air guitar with every spin. "Castle Peak" is probably the most awesome track on the whole thing...a little slice of that kickin' ULTRA record doused with lotsa Rio Grande Mud and cheap whiskey. Does this thing come in 8-track format? I keep waiting for the fifth track, "Throwback" to cut off and resume after that clicking sound.

- Marchman

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/falconband

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