Third album from the USA’s “The Lizards”. Sadly I’m unaware of the previous recordings and on the evidence of “Cold Blooded Kings”, I’ll be checking out the back catalogue.

A very 70’s/21st Century hybrid sound, classic rock overtones, bluesy and even funky in parts, this is interesting to say the least. Vocalist Mike DiMeo (Ex-Riot) has the perfect blend of Paul Rodgers/David Coverdale in his voice, soaring over the virtuosity of Bobby Rondinelli (Sabbath/Rainbow) on drums, Bassist Randy Pratt and Stringsman Patrick Klein. And virtuosity is the word, there’s some incredible playing on this album, from all concerned.

Driving rock is fused with a laid back feel, Sabbath without the gloom and doom. Almost a live feel to the recording, which is refreshing. It does away with the over-processed sound of a lot of new music. Modern nostalgia if you like.

There’s nine, deeply original songs on offer. True, you can here the influences, Free, Led Zep, Purple et al. But there is a definite originality, “Hyperspace” has a ZZ Top like main riff, with a Deep Purple influenced mid section. Classic instrumental. “Dark Matter” has a bluesier feel with a beautiful guitar solo.

The beauty of an album like this, due to the quality of performance, is that every time you listen to it, you hear something new. A different rhythm pattern, an altered bassline. “We Are Dinosaurs” is a darker romp, but has a certain groove, almost funky. Confidence is the key with “Cold Blooded Kings”, musicians who know exactly what they’re doing. There is a rumour of a 2005 tour supporting Glenn Hughes, which would be breathtaking, this album was written with live performance in mind I’m sure. I’ll call this review the first of 2005 and “The Lizards” set an impressive benchmark for the rest of the year.

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Track List

The Opal Crest Of Zed
Cold Blooded Kings
Take A Ride
Down
Rising Star
Hyperspace
Dark Matter
We Are Dinosaurs
Magic Cloud

Line Up

Mike DiMeo - vocals
Bobby Rondinelli - drums
Patrick Klein - guitars
Randy Pratt - bass