I was a young teenager when Quiet Riot burst onto the scene and quickly into superstardom as the rock world collectively banged their heads to the monster hit album “Metal Health.” 34 years later, Quiet Riot is once again back on the scene with their recent release “Road Rage.” Today’s Quiet Riot is a much different lineup for many different reasons including the passing of vocalist Kevin Dubrow ten years ago. Original drummer Frankie Banali leads the way along with longtime bassist Chuck Wright, guitarist Alex Grossi and new vocalist James Durbin. The album was originally scheduled for a spring release but the band decided to record a new version of the record featuring their new frontman.
“Road Rage” kicks off with “Can’t Get Enough,” a fast paced rocker that starts things rolling in fine fashion. The band sounds great and Durbin’s vocals are a nice fit as they swagger through the bluesy grooves of “Getaway” and the sleazier funk of “Roll This Joint.” “Still Wild” is a nice mid tempo anthem that will go over well in a live setting and Grossi provides outstanding guitar work on “Make A
Way” with a real passionate feel. Banali drives the pace on the heavier “Renegades” which is a real showcase for the power of Durbin’s vocals. The requisite ballad type track can be found with the slow burn of “The Road.”
I honestly have to say that I had no idea what to expect from “Road Rage” going in but I was very pleasantly surprised. Quiet Riot has just put out a terrific album of blues based rock that works well for today yet still retains all the style and swagger of their 80’s past making it a must listen for fans old and new.
