Self-released, 2021
Music: Heavy Metal
Website: https://www.facebook.com/thestraddlerzofficial
Duration: 35:00 minutes (9 tracks)
Country: Italy
When it comes to music, I would say I am a man of an acquired taste. However when it comes to Rock and Metal, I can listen to anything that has some groove and melody to go with it. Hence, it wouldn’t take much time for me to find a band and devote enough time towards their music to convert myself as one of their own! This month, it was the Italian Hard Rock/Heavy Metal band, The Straddlerz – perhaps one of the best finds of the month. Musical influences ranging from the classic rockers Guns N Roses, and heavy metal legends Metallica, The Straddlerz is a two-piece band headed by Linda Filippin. Fun fact is that, the band would’ve been called something else it it wasn’t for a show they played in New York, when they accidentally named themselves.
To be honest, nomenclature of the bands are not at all important on this genre. Its all about the music and dedication. If we are to assess The Straddlerz based on these two, then, their 2021 effort – “Self- Titled”, would be a great place to start with. Flauting a setlist of 9 tracks, having a total running time of 35 minutes. The band introduce themselves to their audience with “No Changes” – a track that features the best of both the musicians. The track is heavy, fast, melodic and catchy – ticking all the boxes that I would want on a Rock/Metal song. One thing to note is how Linda mixes her vocals on the track – so perfectly that the instrumentation on the back is not spoiled or overshadowed.
The momentum built from this track is well carried forward to the remaining tracks – “Streets of Love” and “Addiction”. However, things change with “Circle of Insanity” comes. Don’t get me wrong, the song is very good. But, for me, I would have loved to see more of Michael’s riffs layered on top of the beautiful solos he played on this track. Addition of heavy riffs would’ve made this song a banger! But, if you are a fan of solos – you will surely keep this song on repeat – a masterpiece of a single that lacks a bit of heavy riffage.
One of the biggest highlights of this album is both Linda’s and Michael’s creative songwriting. Considering he fact that they were able to pull this off on their very first album, I can see them mature well on future. Overall, the album is a great start to their, what possibly could be – a decorated career. I’ll be looking forward to their future releases, as this one has surely piqued my interest. Heavily recommended for those who love bands such as Judas Priest, Metallica, L7, and Girlschool.
Tracklist:
1. No Changes
2. Streets of Love
3. Addiction
4. Circle of Insanity
5. Open Your Eyes
6. Don’t Go Away
7. I’m Alive
8. Without You
9. Junkie Bastard
Line-up:
Michael Reynal – Guitars
Linda Filippin – Vocals
Rate: 8.5/10
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