ALBUM REVIEW: Mad World – Shakra
As their 25th-anniversary approaches, Swiss-rockers SHAKRA are ready to celebrate with their fans in the form of a new record, Mad World, in the only way they know how – through energetic and hard-hitting rock. As guitarist Thom Blunier, points out, very few bands are able to hit their 25th anniversary: “I’m extremely proud and thankful that this band is still existing after 25 years of Rock’n’Roll. Those of you who have a clue of the difficulties of existing as a band know how precious and exceptional this is. I am ready for the next 25 years!”
Mad World starts with Fireline, a track that manages to combine a laid back and easy style with the aggression and attitude of hard rock. Vocalist Mark Fox has very distinctive style, a rasping nasally sound reminiscent of Brian Johnson or Lemmy, and this track shows right from the outset what to expect from SHAKRA. Too Much is Not Enough takes a darker tone with a heavy and powerful intro riff, a fitting mood for a commentary on the super-wealthy. This track is reminiscent of a more sombre BON JOVI, a touch of Bad Medicine but with a little more sleaze.
A Roll of the Dice kicks off with an intricate intro solo nicely balanced over a heavy chugging riff, followed by a drum and bass section which is super effective in splitting the song up well. The chorus here is powerful and almost epic at times, creating some of the subtle variation we get on this record. Title track Mad World has the classic rock formula that SHAKRA are known for; a very clean production, soft guitars and melodic choruses guide you through the entirety of the album.
When He Comes Around shakes things up a little with a guitar style inspired by the blues, a groovy feel-good track that would be the perfect soundtrack to a summer festival. Despite the lackadaisical attitude, the chorus is powerful and stands out, creating one of the strongest tracks on the record. Thousand Kings keeps things subdued throughout, with an almost gentle but intricate guitar solo complementing the gritty sound well. There’s nothing in your face here, but that certainly doesn’t mean boring for these guys, who are talented musicians and writers.
I Still Rock does what it says on the tin and thunders in with a heavy sound fitting for the theme. Fox’s rasping vocals could be too soft here for a track this style, but instead, he is still able to create power and attitude. A common theme running throughout the album, Fake News is a commentary on current world issues. SHAKRA are not taking political sides but are making poignant observations about modern life, all conveyed through a groovy, laid-back track.
When It All Falls Down, Turn the Light On and Son of Fire fit the SHAKRA formula perfectly. Although nothing here is particularly new for the band, it’s also the case that nothing is filler for the sake of it, every track has thought and energy put into it. Catchy choruses, clean production and effective build-ups prevent this from getting boring. Differently from the rest of the record, SHAKRA end Mad World with a much slower ballad-like track, New Tomorrow. The 80s hard rock influence can be heard here; an inspiring sound which inspires a mood of hope and positivity through the lyrical themes.
Existing fans of SHAKRA will find that Mad World is a perfect new addition to their repertoire, it’s classic hard rock done well. There’s nothing that will really blow you away on this album and it’s nothing that hasn’t been done already, but it’s straight-forward, well-written rock by a bunch of talented musicians. You know what they say… ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’!
Rating: 7/10
Mad World is out now via AFM Records.
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