For over 40 years, German metal legend Udo Dirkschneider has been kicking our proverbial asses with his unique brand of “balls to the wall” metal. He is back with U.D.O.’s 15th studio album, “Decadent,” and all I can say is you better buckle up boys and girls.
The album kicks off with the straight up metal of “Speeder” and the rousing chorus of the title track. The music is fierce and nonstop with Udo’s signature growls, a perfect complement to the wailing guitars of Andrey Smirnov and Kasperi Heikkinen. These two guys know how to wail with flawless technique and insane solos. Don’t miss the creepy laughter and demented vocals on “Mystery” and the pounding drums of Francesco Jovino on “Meaning of Life.” There is even a ballad with emotional guitars taking center stage on “Secrets In Paradise” to mix things up a bit. But as all metal should, things quickly return to power and guitars, guitars, and more guitars on the second half of the record with “Untouchable” being a standout track.
“Decadent” is a well thought out record serving as a statement on the decadent behavior of the ridiculously rich and the vast differences between the haves and have nots driven by aggressive melodies and galloping riffs. With the phenomenal talent of guitarists Smirnov and Heikkinen and the powerhouse personality that is Udo Dirkschneider, U.D.O. has once again outdone themselves.
