AXEL RUDI PELL

German guitar mastermind, Axel Rudi Pell is set to release another album in his lengthy career spanning almost five decades. Ghost Town will be his 23rd album, adding to an impressive list of compilation and live albums. His dedication to his fans is unmatched, consistently creating new music and new releases. The album begins with the intro, ‘The Regicide’, a short, slow, ominous intro that leads perfectly into the lyrically darker ‘Guillotine Walk’, exploding with massive guitar riffs. Johnny Gioeli’s strong vocals cut in, and you get that familiar heavy guitar-driven sound. This was the third early single released, again teasing fans for this release. ‘Breaking Seals’ has a vocal guest duet with Udo Dirkschneider. (Accept, U.D.O.) This is a real treat as Udo’s vocals mix well with Johnny’s smoother vocals, creating a catchy sound. The guitar chug is sprinkled with heavy riffs and a killer solo right around the three-minute mark.

Title track ‘Ghost Town’ kicks off with a heavy riff. This is fast and heavy. I get a Rainbow vibe on this song with an early 1980’s sound. Being the lead single released in December, it again teased fans about just how great this album was shaping up to be. ‘Holy Water’ is a darker song that even has some prog elements. The heavy riffs mix well with the keys, pushing that darker vibe. Johnny’s vocals really shine on this track. ‘The Enemy Within’ is a slower-paced, atmospheric song about the struggle with inner demons. This is a change in style from anything so far on the album, and it’s amazing. A doomy song, electrified with that killer riff at .56 seconds, keeping the darker but heavier vibe. It’s certainly an immersive track with hints of Black Sabbath. The keyboards add an alternative twist as well, making it my personal favourite song on the album. ‘Hurricane’ is a fast-paced banger that begins with massive heavy riffs. This is a very catchy song, and that guitar solo at 2:35 is absolutely amazing, showcasing Axel Rudi Pell’s talent. This would be a great track to hear live.

‘Sanity’, the second single, was released to entice fans. This is a slower song with a heavy guitar presence. I detect a Whitesnake vibe within this track. ‘Towards The Shore’ is a haunting ballad that is set to soften any metal head. I’m usually not a fan of ballads, but this has a slightly darker sound to it that makes it cool. ‘Steps Of Stone’ is a catchy song that builds momentum with some speed and would make another great addition to a live set. Another favourite of mine. ‘Higher Call’ begins with a slow, ballad-like intro until 1:30, then gets progressively heavier. Massive riffs fill this track and mix perfectly with the thicker vocals. A great track to finish the album on a high note. That solo at 5:22 is classic Axel Rudi Pell. Fantastic stuff.

Axel Rudi Pell always creates an unmistakable sound that changes with each release. He expertly adheres to the triple threat of music, vocals, and lyrics; Ghost Town is further evidence of that successful blueprint.