Babylon AD recorded some great classic hard rock back in the day, though the group never quite got the recognition they deserve, largely due to changing trends in the music business. The band’s 1989 debut spawned classic tunes like “Hammer Swings Down,” “Desperate,” “Bang Go the Bells,” and “The Kid Goes Wild,” the latter of which famously appeared in the film ROBOCOP 2. The group’s early days even featured songs written by the famed Jack Ponti, and a sophomore album produced by iconic producer Tom Werman. While the band has split on many occasions and reformed, die-hard fans truly know that they can rock.
From older Babylon AD lineups, the current version of the band features two classic members: vocalist Derek Davis, and guitarist Ron Freschi. The lineup is filled out by Craig Pepe and Dylan Soto. ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY is the first studio release from the band since 2017’s REVELATION HIGHWAY, although the group released a live album last year.
I can’t say Babylon AD is exactly the kind of band I expected to see release a comeback album in 2024, but hearing the news of a new release was certainly an unexpected surprise. Mr. Davis and company could’ve come out guns a-blazing on every track serving up nothing but hard and heavy rock, but I’m pleased to see that the record isn’t a one-trick pony either. The group isn’t afraid of slowing things down and going into more melodic territory when the release calls for it; many of the tracks like this feel like they could be the spiritual successors to “Desperate” from the first album. Again, this album was unexpected, but I’m glad to see the band alive and kicking in 2024.
ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY shows that the guys from Babylon AD are still firing on all cylinders; the guys certainly have another winner on their hands here! Highly recommended to fans of the group and classic hard rock in general.