Angels in Vein unites 5 classic hard rockers – Chris Van Dahl (LA Guns, Legends in Concert), Todd (Taz) Anthony, Stacey Blades (LA Guns), Eric Stacy (Faster Pussycat), and Troy Patrick Farrell (White Lion). Already positive words are spreading about this quintet, combining many of the finest players of a great, bygone scene.
Nearly every musician in this group I have been familiar with at some point, and followed in at least one band, either on the Vegas scene or on a national scale. Regardless, there is no arguing with the lineup here; these five being united is enough to check out the band.
“1973” is one of the tracks that will be featured on the group’s forthcoming album, Love Dies Screaming. With these newfound “supergroups” of classic artists, it can be hard to tell what to expect initially, which is truly something that works both ways at times. How does it work out for Angels in Vein, and is this a group you are going to want to continue to follow?
“1973” is a solid effort and one that will definitely build anticipation for the forthcoming record, even if it not quite what fans of these artists’ respective acts of the past are expecting music wise. In many ways the song’s sound is reminiscent of Velvet Revolver, which featured former Guns N Roses members attempting to modernize musically, albeit with considerable success and pleasing results. “1973” is a song may take a few spins to win over the listener, but overall the end results satisfy.
Building on the Velvet Revolver comparisons, Chris Van Dahl actually resembles Scott Weiland vocally on the track. The rest of the band is very spirited and clearly these artists have lost nothing musically over the years; the guitar work from they always reliable Stacey Blades speaking for itself. We even have a powerful rhythm section in the form of Stacy and Farrell, both of whom leave their mark on this song and deserve considerable praise for their contributions.
This could have been an attempt at a “clone track” that sounded like any one of the countless songs from the members’ respective previous bands, but they have taken the risky and adventurous path of trying something new musically, with results that actually pay off. Again, I do not believe this is a track that will win over all listeners on the first go-around, but stick with it and it will grow on you. Fans should be all the more eager for Love Dies Screaming’s eventual release upon giving “1973” a listen. Strongly recommended!