Domino Effect

Gotthard has really returned to their original form here. Their last album, Lipservice, put them back on the right track, but this one puts them squarely back where they belong. These songs are built around a riff and an attitude. From the booming bass of the title track to the strings in the ballad Falling, this cd is just one well put together package of melodic rock. There is nothing ground-breakingly original on this disc (an observation critics love to throw at them), but their fans aren't looking for new -- they're looking for more. And that's what this is. 14 more songs of the rock that they are famous for. And when you're good at what you do and you're doing what you love, why should you have to change? With former rock band Bon Jovi heading towards the more lucrative money of the growing country audience, I say good ridance to them. If that's what evolution brings, I don't want it. Jon and Richie can stay in Nashville. I'll take Gotthard. --Scott