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ANVIL
"This is Thirteen"
(VH-1 Classic; 2009)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
The fact this is the first Anvil CD review we've run in our eleven years of online existence is in itself evidence of the lack of respect that Anvil has received in their 31 years of existence. And, for that, we apologize. The fact of the matter is that we've been fans of Anvil forever but, like too many others, we took them for granted. It seems like the band has always been there, always turning out strong album after strong album, but never really getting the attention they deserve.
The 2009 movie, "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" not only brought the band's long career to the attention of the masses, it also reminded those of us who have been casual fans throughout all these years that the band is still out there and that they're still making great music. Which brings us to "This is Thirteen," the band's latest studio recording.
Originally released in Europe in 2007, and now seeing U.S. release due to the movie's enormous popularity (and probably the band's music appearing on the Rock Star video game), "This is Thirteen" is the band's thirteenth studio album, and features 13 new tracks. (Also featured on the U.S. version is a bonus track, "Thumb Hang").
The CD is just what you'd expect it to be: Pure, unadulterated, classic, Anvil-style heavy metal. Most of the songs are mid-paced rockers, heavy with bass and chunky guitar, with simply lyrics and irresistible sing-along choruses. The title track starts things off with an almost regal chorus of "This is Thirteen" and is followed by more of the same ... sometimes a little too much the same; some tracks sound nearly the same as others. Occasionally, however, things really kick into gear with faster tracks like "Should'a Would'a Could'a).
Is there anything fresh and original here? Not really. Does the band experiment with any new sounds of styles? Well, no. Do they succeed in delivering an album that will have you pumping your fist, playing air guitar and chanting along with the choruses while you drive? Hell, yes!
As stated above, Anvil has been around for 31 years now and "This is Thirteen" proves they're not ready to go away any time soon. After listening to this CD, and seeing "Anvil! The Story of Anvil!" I won't be taking them for granted again.
Anvil: Robb Reiner - drums; Lips - lead guitars, lead vocals; Glenn Five - Bass guitar.
For more information, check out http://www.anvilmetal.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2009 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised:
15 Feb 2012 01:35:47 -0600.
