Jake E. Lee (Ozzy Osbourne, Badlands) is one of my all time favorite guitarists. Either with Ozzy or BADLANDS, this guy delivered some inspired and memorable guitar riffs and solos. Especially with Badlands his bluesier approach remains unforgettable. But that was then and this is now; now we have the second album from Lee's newest band, RED DRAGON CARTEL, with the title "Patina".
The band’s debut album included participation from a number of special guests, including Maria Brink from In This Moment, Jeremy Spencer from Five Finger Death Punch, and Robin Zander from Cheap Trick. In this new release, Jake E. Lee achieve to gather musicians such as Anthony Esposito on bass (ex-Lynch Mob), Phil Varone (ex-Saigon Kick, Skid Row) on drums and singer Darren Smith (Harem Scarem) on vocals.
"Patina" kicks-off with the modern heavy rocker tune of "Speedbag". It's a nice rocker that reminds me a bit of Lee's hey days with Ozzy but with a modern and updated vibe in it. A solid opener even if I was expecting a more remarkable song. Next, "Havana" is far better. It includes this bad-ass Badlands groove in it, more attitude and Jake E. Lee delivers a great guitar work. "The Luxury Of Breathing" features a late Lynch Mob feeling while in "A Painted Heart" we have a 'modern-day' Badlands tune. Man, I just love the bluesy 'touch' in this song and Smith's almost hypnotically vocal lines. One of my personal favs out of "Patina". The guitar really 'smokes' in this one!! Another cool track is the groovy and funkier "My Beautiful Mess".
Not bad at all!! I think that Jake E. Lee with Red Dragon Cartel finds, at last, his vehicle to create good and modern heavy rock music. Lee doesn't need to prove who he is to nobody; during his long time career he showed his incredible skills as a musician. Nowadays, he take things a step forward and creates and plays the music he loves. Simple as that......
Rating : 7,5 / 10
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