I know, you thought he was dead. You were wrong. One of metal's most prolific and recognizable singers (not to mention one of the shortest, although I still think 'ol Ronnie James has him beat) is back with a brand new opus called "Thunderball". Some classic rock singers have had their voices weaken in their "twilight years". Geddy Lee, David Coverdale, and Robert Plant have all seen their once-proud voices deteriorate to become shells of their former selves. I am proud to report that Udo Dirkschneider's deal with the devil has paid off, and his voice is as ass-kicking as ever! From the opening lines of the title track to the closing tune, he belts it out like a rabid dog. You've gotta love the heart (Metal Heart?) and dedication that this miniature marvel has to offer.

"Thunderball" is another solid effort for Udo the man, and U.D.O. the band. Do you realize that Udo has almost put out as many solo albums as he did with the mighty ACCEPT? This record is full of classic-style riffs and traditional metal arrangements, but clichéd it is not (even though Udo has got more than 25 years on the books)! He starts off with the title track, a hard 'n heavy ACCEPT-style rocker that will take all the doubters by surprise. This man means business, and that he is still carrying on the ACCEPT legacy. "The Arbiter" gets a little gloomy, then the band returns to neck–wrenching with "Pull the Trigger" and "Fistful of Anger". There are two lighter songs on the record represented by the choral arrangement of "The Magic Mirror" and the melancholy "Blind Eyes". Also, U.D.O. pays respect to some of their craziest fans during the track "Trainride In Russia", which adds a touch of folklore for his comrades in Russia.

It's important to remember that Udo started recording with ACCEPT in '79, and has been incredibly reliable for great metal through the years, making him a living legend in many circles. Pay your respects and pick this one up. You could do worse (I hear the LIVING DEATH reunion is a go, for example). Keep this guy from entering the "Home for the Aged and Ailing Metal Frontmen" and rooming with Joe Lynn Turner. Later, children of the night.

- Murtaugh

OFFICIAL SITE:www.udo-online.de

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