Frank Hannon, Mike Araiza and Jeff Sandoval have created what is quickly being regarded as one of the most impressive unabashed tributes to the importance of the guitar in Rock-n-Roll music. ‘Six-String Soldiers’ is a full length disc of 12 solidly written songs backed by the musicianship of legendary guitarists Dickey Betts (‘Ramblin’ Man), 3-time Grammy Award winner Rick Derringer (Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo), Pat Travers (Boom Boom, Out Go The Lights) and Y&T founder Dave Meniketti.
Joined by New Mexico’s Mike Araiza and fronted by the soulful voice of Jeff Sandoval, Frank has assembled an army of talent that is rarely seen on a single album these days. This album reminds us of a time in America when soon to be classic songs blasted from the radios of the newest muscle cars, guitar-driven songs topped the charts and freedom was in the air. “I’m Alive” opens with a bang highlighted by the bluesy guitar of Pat Travers. Outstanding vocals and songwriting bring an uplifting message that will become an anthem for anyone that has suffered pain and heart-ache yet managed to survived!
“Lipstick, Smoke -N- Gasoline” is an instant favorite! The first note starts with an infectious groove that carries to the end. Frank and Mike deliver some great head-banging riffs as Dave Meniketti brings a truly face-melting guitar solo.
You may have not heard Jeff Sandoval before, but that is quickly going to change with “Cross Your Mind” and “Love, Life and Beauty”. Jeff’s vocals bring these songs a heartfelt honesty to them that is sadly missing in most of todays popular music. He brings both songs to a triumphant conclusion giving them all the strengths of true classics, keep an eye on both of these!
The life a professional musician is beautifully conveyed in “Touch the Ground”. Guitar legend Dickey Betts’ decades of traveling from town-to-town, gig-to-gig comes thru brilliantly in his unmatched signature style making it an absolute must have.
The great Rick Derringer himself makes “To the Light” absolutely shine on this album! His guitar work reminds us why he is a true master and guitar icon!
Frank Hannon has joined forces with some true legends and introduces us to some new talent as well. “Redemption” is a fantastic song of salvation. Backing Jeff up on vocals from behind the drums is none other than Cortney DeAugustine!
Closing out ‘Six-String Soldiers’ a great little instrumental by Frank titled “12.21”…if the world does come to an end, make sure you have ‘Six-String Soldiers’ playing!
Track Listing:
1. I’m Alive (feat. Pat Travers)
2. Set Me Free
3. Six String Soldiers
4. Lipstick, Smoke and Gasoline (feat. Dave Meniketti)
5. Invincible
6. Cross Your Mind
7. Touch the Ground (feat. Dickey Betts)
8. I’m Just Sayin’
9. Love, Life and Beauty
10. To the Light (feat. Rick Derringer)
11. Redemption
12. 12.21
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