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FOOLS PARADISE
"This World"
(Self-produced; 2010)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
In my review of the band's earlier demo, I said: "A full-length CD from these guys would be something to behold." Now, finally, "This World," the full-length CD by Fools Paradise is here and I am pleased to report that is indeed something to behold.
"This World" starts out with a track that sounds a lot like Uriah Heap. It's got that classic, vintage rock sound that you used to hear on the radio all the time but can't find now no matter how hard you try. Track 2 sounds like vintage Deep Purple. Do you see the theme here yet? This is an album for anybody who likes the classic hard rock era, but "This World" still has enough of a fresh edge -- with its high production values, quality songwriting, etc. -- that it sounds new and just great.
Vocalist Nick Neilson still sounds a lot like Meat Loaf at times, which of course, is a good thing; Meat Loaf is one of the best vocalists in rock history. This is no more apparent than on track 6, "World's Burning." The solos on the CD are fiery and dynamic in the vein of Ted Nugent's style. And the songs are irresistible, hooking you from the beginning and getting those hooks in deeper with each and every listen.
"This World" is one of my favorite albums of last year ... and this year, as well. It's fast, fun and a total blast to listen to.
For more information, check out http://www.neilson-fools.com.
"Demo"
(Self-produced; 2002)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
The three tracks on the demo we received are all well-written and very well executed tunes that delivered what the band promises: More than just rock'n'roll songs, more of a rock'n'roll story. A comparison to Styx and Meat Loaf isn't so much because Fools Paradise sounds like those bands, but because their songwriting style and sophisticated performance is similar. A full-length CD from these guys would be something to behold - like a music novel as opposed to a CD.
This demo was recorded at 2CarGarage Studio with the final mix-down done at Ventura's legendary Goldmine Recording Studio by Jeff Cowan and Nick Neilson.
FOOLS PARADISE: Nick Neilson - lead guitar, lead vocals; David Kurdelak - drums, backup vocals; Clarence "C" Eldridge - bass guitar, backup vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.neilson-fools.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 © 2011 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised:
02 Nov 2011 01:33:45 -0600.
