As long as I’ve known Markus Allen Christopher, he has always put out quality product from AMSTERDAM to MISS CRAZY and FREAKSHOW to his solo work and with his new release he steps “out of the box” a bit with an array of delectable tunes.
“Hard Rock 101” starts off in high fashion with “I Want Love” and it’s tantalizing guitar riffs of early KISS but at the same time adding elements of the mighty LED ZEPPELIN. The song is definitely a throwback from past Christopher releases and is sure to grab your attention.
When an artist writes a song and it impacts a person to the point of tears then that artist has done one heluva job. I myself had a hard time listening to this one because “Moonchild” affected me to almost not review this CD. It could be lyrics or just the tone of the music. The song is soft and mellow and does a job on your senses. It brings back sentimental memories and still for me, an ongoing situation in my life.I simply loved the track.
If you’re looking for a change of style by M.A.C. then check out “On My Knees”. The song still holds that crunch but the capturing moment has to be the melodic guitar work and the background vocals that raise the levels even more.
Upon the first sounds of “Hello” I thought of DEF LEPPARD but as the song plays you can feel flashbacks of the old times of MISS CRAZY. “Hello” is classic and pure enjoyment of a good hard rock song that the kiddies will be singing along to.
Another song that Christopher jumps out of the box on is “Baby Girl”. I love the mellow side of Markus and can listen to tunes like “Baby Girl” all day long. It puts you in that dream state of taking your mind to different thoughts and the guitar work by Gary Paavola is penetrating to the brain.
MISS CRAZY has again arisen from the ashes on “Hiding From The Ghost”. The guitar work brings full foundation that was classic to MISS CRAZY. The song is a little heavier than other tunes and the lead guitar work blends perfectly.
Metal Markus pumps up the intensity on the fast-paced song “Fire”. It features some heavy duty guitar work, killer drums and is reminiscent of early KISS.
On “Hard Rock 101” Markus Allen Christopher shows a lot of diversity. I particularly like the different styles and mood changes that provoke many thoughts. Now it’s up to you to check out “HARD ROCK 101” for yourself.
Track listing:
I Want Love
My Everything
Moonchild
On My Knees
Hello
Baby Girl
Hiding From The Ghost
Fire
Markus Allen Christopher — lead vocals, guitar, drums
Gary Paavola — guitar, drums, vocals
Jim Tourtillott — bass guitar, vocals