With heavy metal stalwarts Twisted Sister calling it quits this year, it only seems natural for frontman Dee Snider to once again spread his wings and explore some new territory with the release of his latest solo album, “We Are The Ones.” The new record is definitely not a Twisted type of album but a true solo effort with a wide range of songs and diverse sounds.
The title track opens things up and proves to be a powerful anthemic tune followed by the catchy hook and chorus of “Over Again.” Dee’s vocals sound great and producer Damon Ranger did an excellent job giving the album a current, albeit more mainstream, rock sound. Two of my favorite tracks, “Close To You” and “Rule The World” are both midtempo songs that start off slow but build to a grand feel with some outstanding guitar work as well. I liked the more pop rock feel of “Crazy For Nothing” which had an almost Foo Fighters type vibe to it. Included on the album is a cover of Twisted Sister’s most iconic song “We’re Not Gonna Take It.” This time around, Dee gives us an acoustic stripped down version featuring just himself and a piano that proves to be just as powerful if not more so than the original rock anthem. Dee also provides his own spin on his cover of Nine Inch Nail’s “Head Like A Hole.” The album closer “So What” is a commanding performance by Dee, full of emotional turmoil and upheaval which can also be viewed in the video for the song which focuses on the Dakota Access Pipeline Protest.
“We Are The Ones” is a formidable new release from Snider that should allow him to satisfy long term fans as well as welcome a whole new audience of listeners.
