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NOTE: The following reviews were taken "as is" from each reviewers website. Maximum Metal Review Rob Rock's Eyes Of Creation - Eyes Of Eternity 2003 Massacre Records - Reviewed by EC Track ListingRock The Earth Conqueror's Hymn Stranglehold Fields Of Fire You Know Eyes Of Eternity The Everlasting Rage Of Creation The Hour Of Dawn Rob Rock has proven to be one of my favorite metal vocalists, with his work with bands such as Impellitteri, Warrior, Angelica, Project Driver, and Axel Rudi Pell always being near my top stack of arms reach metal. Think of the powerful pipes of Dio, Tony Martin, and the almost identical range of Racer X frontman Jeff Martin. Rob Rock decided to go at it on his own in 2000 with his first solo effort, "Rage Of Creation". That release was absolutely mind blowing, adding guests like Jake E. Lee to the party and writing some superb Floridian styled power metal. The followup is this year's "Eyes Of Eternity", with his band now called "Eyes Of Creation". This album has some killer material, refining the already stellar sound of the first solo release. This go around Rob has aquired the services of axeman Rick Renstorm, who lays down some blasting sonic riffage here, especially on tracks like "Conquerors Hymn" with its European gallop and epic medieval chrous. The breakdown in that song is one of absolute wonder. How do they come up with this stuff? Opener "Rock The Earth" is pure German worship, with plenty of Kamelot styled keyboards to add the fantasy dimension. Rob's vocals on "Stranglehold" are mesmerizing, serenading the listener with some apocalyptic styled lyrics very reminiscent of his work with Warrior on the album "Code Of Life". This type of album reminds me of the material that Shrapnel was releasing in the late 80s, that neo-classical shredding style made famous by bands like Apocrypha. "Fields Of Fire" attempts to modernize things a bit, adding a groove-based riff throughout the track while "Eyes Of Eternity" hits the boards with pure 80s fire, with plenty of tight fast riffs and a catchy chorus that is almost inspirational with its positive songwriting. Closer "Hour Of Dawn" is a moody atmospheric piece that features several metal stars including some vocals by Cage singer Sean Peck. The pace quickens from Deep Purple rumblings to a Black Sabbath Neon Knights pace around the three minute mark. This man is a musical mastermind folks! Excellent follow-up album considering how well done the fist solo effort was. I would really like to see Rob Rock venture out and do some more work with his prior bands, especially Colorado's Warrior. Check out his work with German band Powergod as well as Edguy side project Avantasia. The guy gets around! --EC 12.05.03 ================ Rob Rock - Eyes Of Eternity (Massacre) Total Time: 51:52 Rob Rock, one of the best voices in the metal scene of today, is back with his band Rage Of Creation, for solo album number two. Again helped by the very talented Roy Z, producing and playing guitar, Rob sings his heart out and delivers an album ever bit as good, if not better, than his debut. This is another great example of European neo-classical metal, “Eyes Of Eternity” is what we describe as high energy hard rock, with lots of shredding guitar solos, but best of all, plenty of those intense Rob Rock vocals. There are no ballads within sight here, just plenty of in your face rockers. But melody hasn't been forgotten, Rob's powerhouse vocal continues to deliver its strong melodic message. Real good honest hard rock to live to, an effort that deserves your attention. Reviewer: Stelios Basbayiannis ============== Best known for his time shared with the likes of Impellitteri, Joshua, Angelica and Axel Rudi Pell, "Eyes Of Eternity" illustrates a powerful score of catchy neo-classical heavy metal songs with progressive twists. Rock's brilliant new album is full of bristling music performed with tremendous class by a team of qualified musicians including guitarists Rick Renstrom and Bob Rossi along with bassist Stephen Elder and drummer Tracy Shell. Best bits include the bone crunching, fist punching headbanging metal of 'Conqueror's Hymn' which is very much like Yngwie Malmsteen and 'Rage Of Creation' through to the galloping metal crunch of 'The Hour Of Dawn' to the calmer semi melodic numbers like 'You Know' through to the excellent neo-classical 'Fields Of Fire' which is one of the albums best songs without a doubt. The whole vibe of this album shows Rob Rock growing in to a fine musical outfit that in time will equal say Ring Of Fire. There's too many good songs to pick out mere favorites, it's apparent that Rock clearly enjoyed making this album and I enjoyed listening to it and so will you, check it out. ================ Produced, arranged and mixed by Roy Z. Executive producers Rob Rock and Roy Z. That alone tells me that this is an album that will be worth repeated listens. I have yet to be disappointed by anything Roy Z or Rob Rock have put their names to, and 'Eyes of Eternity' is no exception. (Roy is known for his work with Halford and Bruce Dickinson, while Rob is know for his long stint with Impellitteri.) Rob's second solo CD is heavy, guitar driven heavy metal that comes across as a bit more European sounding than "Rage of Creation." There are ten tracks that are all on level with each other. The exception is tracks nine and ten which are simply outstanding. The epic, twelve minute long "The Hour of Dawn" is a standout track. This song starts as an atmospheric metal anthem that reminds me slightly of mid-90's Stratovarius and ends with a 4-1/2 minute long guitar jam, that includes guitar solos by 15 different guitar shredders. Among the guitarists included are Narnia's Carl Johan Grimmark, Jack Frost, metal legend Axel Rudi Pell and someone simply known as "The Warlock." Finshing out this CD is a bonus track called "Beautiful Lady" which is simply one of the best ballads ever written. As I recall this song was actually recorded several years ago and was released as a bonus track on the Japanese version of "Rage of Creation". Despite how much I like Rob's heavy material, he really does excel at ballads. Found it somewhat amusing that this CD contains a song called "Rage of Creation." I wonder if this song might have been written for the "Rage" session but not used until this disc. This song is a tight, crunchy mid paced rocker that leads into one of the albums fastest, and heaviest songs "Conqueror's Hymn". The guitar tones on this song are outstanding and prove to me that you don't need to downtune a full step to have a heavy sound or to write a monsterous riff. As usual, Rob's lyrics are honest and thought provoking, mostly deal with his faith in Almighty God. For me this was one the most anticipated metal releases of the year. Sometimes when I anticipate an album like I did this one, I am left disapponted. However, Rob Rock didn't leave me even slightly dissappointed. ============= The ever reliable Rob Rock is back with his band Rage Of Creation for solo album number two. Again flanked by the very talented Roy Z producing and playing guitar, Rob sings his heart out and delivers an album ever bit as good, if not better, than his debut. This is another great example of European neo-classical metal, right up there with the also excellent Brazen Abbot - making two of the best heavy albums of the year. There's lots to like about Eyes Of Eternity – lots of changes in pace and variation of song delivery, lots of high energy hard rock, lots of shredding guitar solos, but best of all, plenty of those authorative Rob Rock vocals. There isn't anything unexpected on this album, but that's a good thing. 8 of the tracks clock in between 4 and 5 minutes, with track 9, The Hour Of Dawn, acting as the album's official epic – clocking in over 12 minutes. Plenty of the expected tempo changing metal acrobatics and guitar shredding on this one. There are no ballads within sight here, just plenty of in your face rockers. But melody hasn't been forgotten, Rob's powerhouse vocal continues to deliver its strong melodic message. With each album Rob is making a bigger name for himself and further creating his own legacy, rather than one just as the vocalist from Impellitteri. And speaking of which, both this and Rob's last solo album easily out-rate the last Impellitteri. The Bottom Line Another very classy album that's all killers, no fillers. A must buy for fans of melodic metal and Rob Rock's past work. =============== ROB ROCK RAGE OF CREATION VICTOR VICP-61101 Produced by: Roy Z Released: OUT NOW / Website Closest Relative: Impellitteri, Yngwie GENRE: Hard Rock OVERALL: 90% Who needs Chris Impellitteri?!! Rob Rock literally roars into solo action, bringing with him the musical genius that is Roy Z. Roy has a knack for pin pointing artist's strong points and being able to adapt to the needs at hand. On Rage Of Creation he backs on the great vocalists in hard rock perfectly. Together they have written a collection of songs that easily match anything Rob has contributed to Impellitteri in recent years.To single out any particular tracks is impossible. To be blunt, Rob knows what he is good at and knows what fans want of him and has delivered a full album of just that. The drumming and guitars are as furious as an Impellitteri albums and the vocals reach new heights of screaming even I was surprised with! The best thing about the album is that every track is a winner. There is only one real ballad on the album with one other mid paced anthem. The remaining tracks are flat out, so those with faint hearts beware! The Japanese version adds one bonus track - a soft acoustic ballad titled Beautiful Lady. It's a great song. BOTTOM LINE: A perfect album that addresses every want and need of the established Rob Rock fans out there. Fast songs, big vocals and in your face guitar riffing and solo's all over the record. A release that will greatly enhance the already great reputation of Roy Z. A man for all occasions. Together they have made a great album and I look forward to many more. PRODUCTION: 90% SONGS: 88% VIBE: 90% ATTITUDE: 92% ESSENTIAL FOR: Every Rob Rock fan out there and fans of good quality classic melodic metal. DISCOGRAPHY:Project Driver; Impellitteri; Solo - Rage Of Creation Hey, how about some Rob Rock?? You remember him. Impellitteri, M.A.R.S.-Project Driver, Axel Rudi Pell, and Driver from 1990 with Roy Z?? He's back and bigger than ever. Rob has created another chapter in his career with a slew of musicians that are superb. Roy Z and Greg Analla from Tribe of Gypsies and Jake E. Lee to name a few. Now that you have a feel for the caliber of this album, let's talk about it. The album starts off with 'In the beginning', an intro to the heavy track 'The sun will rise again'. The music has a lot of punch to it and Rob has never sounded better. Roy Z plays guitar on the album as well as co-writing and producing. 'One way out' follows in the same tempo showing the consistency of the album. 'Judgment Day' is brilliant. Paints a picture with sound. Definitely one of my favorites. This tune gets into a serious rock session. 'Streets of Madness' reminds me a lot of Iron Maiden. Has that prominent bass sound as well as Maiden's song structure. How about an ABBA cover?? Rob gives us 'Eagle'. It is done very well. 'All I Need' gives us that familiar guitar sound that has been missing for a long time. Kind of reminds me of early Dio. 'Media Machine' follows in the same vein. 'In the Night' slows the tempo a bit but still retains the crunch. Another favorite. 'Never too late' is an adrenaline booster and will get the blood flowing if for some crazy reason it hasn't started yet. 'Forever' closes the album out and showcases Rob's vocal power. This album is great from start to finish. Definitely one of the stronger releases of the year. I was very pleased with this effort. Rob is definitely onto something special here. It was nice to see Roy Z involved as well. Most of you know how I feel about Roy Z. He is an incredible asset to any project. Take Rob and Roy Z together and you have one of the finest combination songwriting duo's in rock music today. Don't miss this one, it's top notch! Former Impellitteri singer Rob Rock is finally displaying his vocal talents on a solo album. Rage Of Creation was produced by Roy Z who also worked for the latest Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson. Roy played the guitars on this release too. Result is a high quality record featuring eleven heavy metal tracks. It starts with a short instrumental track that goes over into the powermetal song The Sun Will Rise Again. This song is full of energy, uptempo and with Rob's excellent singing. Modern tones can be heard in Judgment Day with Roy's darker guitar noises. Still it has that heavy metal sound many will love. There's an enjoyable variety on Rage Of Creation. You'll hear top notch power metal and melodic metal. There's also a cover of Abba's Eagle and an epic metal tune at the end called Forever. Solos are skillfully played with an abundance of arpeggios and racing over the strings. Two solos were conjured by Jake E Lee (Ozzy Osbourne, Badlands). My favorite song here is Streets Of Madness, a song that can easily match any Iron Maiden hit-song. It has galloping riffs and a chorus you can yell along to. Rage Of Creation is probably my favorite metal album of 2000! ROB ROCK "Rage Of Creation" Released - 2000 | Rating - 5/5 | Reviewer - Rick Why this guy isn't a household name in metal is quite beyond me. He has one of the best voices that I have ever heard! And before anyone even asks (I have already been asked this), no this is not Bob Rock who helped destroy Metallica. This is ROB ROCK, former vocalist for Impellitteri and a number of other projects. Rock has some big names helping him on this disc most notably Roy Z who plays guitar, bass, keyboards and also produces and Jake E. Lee (ex-Ozzy and Badlands) who adds some lead guitar. Rob has been around the metal scene since 1986 when he made his recorded debut on the CD M.A.R.S. Project Driver. The group consisted of , shredder Tony MacAlpine on guitar and keyboards, Tommy Aldridge (ex-Ozzy) on drums, Rock on pipes and Rudy Sarzo (ex - Ozzy and Quiet Riot) on bass. Rob then hooked up with another guitar wizard by the name of Chris Impellitteri in 1987 to record Impellitteri's self titled debut E.P. In 1988 Rock performed vocals on the Joshua CD Intense Defense and 1989 saw Rock again doing vocal duties on the S/T Angelica CD. Driver saw Rocks first collaboration with Roy Z with the release of their self titled CD in 1990.1991 Rock was off to a new band as he joined Axel Rudi Pell for the CD Nasty Reputation. 1992 saw Rock rejoin Chris Impellitteri for a string of 7 CDs ending in this years great disc Crunch. However all was not copasetic in Impellitteri. Rock and Chris Impellitteri parted ways after the release of Crunch which leads us to where we are now. The debut solo CD from Rob Rock. Rock is joined on the cd by Roy Z, Jake E. Lee, Reynold "Butch" Carlson (ex - Jag Panzer, Driver) - Drums Gregory Analla (Tribe of Gypsies)- Backing Vocals, Ray Burke - Bass on "All I Need", "In The Night", "Never Too Late". Now that I got through all that lets get to the music. This disc is 11 songs of real metal. Thats the only way I can describe it. The disc opens with the intro "In the Beginning" which leads right into "The Sun Will Rise Again" which is a great up tempo track which has lots of double bass drums and a vague lingering Maiden feel. Awesome tune. Leads me to think what would have happened to Maiden if Rock had joined instead of Blaze. "Judgment Day" is one of the heaviest tracks on the disc. This song is 6 minutes of great metal. Roy Z plays some great guitar as the middle of the song breaks down and just thrashes on till it again changes pace and finally returns to the original riff and Rock just screams his ass off. Great tune. "Streets of Madness" gallops along and Rock gives one of his best vocal performances on the disc. Probably my favorite song on the CD. "All I Need" showcases a shredder of solo by Jake E. Lee as does "Media Machine" benefit from some killer leads compliments of the former Ozzy guitar slinger. Other standout tracks include the mid paced rocker "In The Night" and "Forever" where Rock just sends his voice into the stratosphere. There is also a cover of an Abba song on the CD. The song is "Eagle" and it is a killer track. Rob has made that song so metal that you can't find any Abba in it at all! 14 years after Rob Rock started recording we get this, his first debut cd. If this was what he was capable of all along then we have been missing out on some great metal. Roy Z has had a big hand in this CD from song writing to playing to production. His input can not be overlooked. Roy is probably one of the best metal producers on the scene today and he has succeeded in bringing out the best in Rob Rock. Rob has one of the best voices in metal today. Lets hope that he has many more CDs like this in his future. Check out more information about Rob at his website www.robrock.com. For those of you ignorant of Rob Rock, let me give you a quick education. Rob is best known for his recent work as lead singer for Impellitteri, with whom he recorded several albums. Before that, he did a couple of things, including a band called Driver with Roy Z, as well as an album with Axel Rudi Pell. Recently, he was forced to choose between Impellitteri or a solo career, and he thankfully chose the latter. Rob joined forces with Roy Z (Helloween, Halford, Bruce Dickinson, etc.), with Roy CO-writing, producing, and playing guitars and bass. Rob and Roy have managed to make magic with this album. Rage of Creation is a brilliant album from start to finish. Unlike many releases of late, it does not peak out within the first few songs but instead keeps your attention and interest throughout. It's a release for fans of various tastes. If you love songs on the slower, more sensitive side, you'll love 'Forever.' If, however, you enjoy heavier stuff, then songs like 'Judgment Day' will grab you. There's also a fantastic cover of ABBA's 'Eagle.' I can honestly say there is not a bad song here. This album is melodic metal and hard rock at its best. Without a doubt, ROC blows away anything Rob did with Impellitteri. I'm only left wondering what Rob could have accomplished with Roy if he hadn't have spent so much time in Impellitteri. It's available right now in Japan with one bonus track, and a European/US release is slated for late October. Usually I don't recommend spending the extra cash on a Japanese import, but with this album, it's well worth having it 2 months early. Rob Rock, "Rage of Creation" -- 11/13 Review by Doctor Metal ROCKER ROWAN CD REVIEWS Featured Review: Rage Of Creation by Rob Rock First of all, be fore warned. Whether you like this review or not, or if you like metal or not. No matter what, this cd should be in your possession,48 hours after you read the final line of the last paragraph. So darken the room, light some candles, put in the cd, press play and ...let their be ROCK...Rob Rock! You will now experience the "Rage Of Creation" from the Heavens and down a spiral staircase, into the eye of a hurricane. Suddenly you hear it, "In The Beginning", as it slowly builds up. What an opening to a great sounding cd. Leading us to the new dawn of Rob's career or the first song, called "The Sun Will Rise Again". With it's monstrous drums and fast melodic guitar, this reminds me of early Iron Maiden. This track introduces us to thee man behind the voice and lyrics-Mr.Rob Rock. The man of the hour, it's his turn to fly. Just as the song rises over the musical horizon, there is an anthemic break, that leads us to the outro and right into "One Way Out". Another fast paced scorcher that shows us the range of this most powerful vocalist. It still amazes me that a person this talented is just now releasing his first solo cd. And I'm damn glad that he chose Roy Z. (Bruce Dickinson,Halford,TOG) as his producer and guitarist. Speaking of Roy Z., his solo here is fast, smooth and completely under control.Let me ask you this. Are you prepared for "Judgment Day"? Here, the opening bass line and drum rhythms are met full force with some crunchy guitar. Listen to Rob shouting, "judgment day!" in a lower register, only to climb back up the ladder of octaves .Reaching the chorus, which is very catchy for an epic metal tune. Has anyone seen the bridge? A beautiful one I might add. A second break has some "aaahhhh's" with Roy Z. once again trying to hide some major league ripping in the background. Building up to that chorus once again. Come on sing along. Rob's vocals are sometimes unbelievable, being only compared to the resurrected pipes of one true metal god. Then the song fades like the stars in the morning sky. What a production."...everyone's a victim in the city full of dreams..."Next up is an opening with a bass line ala Billy Sheehan. It takes us to the "Streets Of Madness". Once again Rob reaches into his lower register ala Geoff Tate (almost spoken) to start the song off But Rob hauntingly sings us the verses, punctuating the last word of every line. Then-BAM!-Roy Z. steps up to the plate and hits a short line drive up the middle. A very well written song, both lyrically and musically. After that we are treated to a cover song. I'll have to ask Rob or Z. how one chooses a cover song. What song is it? Oh my God, it's "Eagle" by the most popular Swedish band ever. This is, in my opinion, one of the best remakes I have ever had the pleasure to hear. Easily compared to "Diamonds and Rust" by Joan Baez/J.P. This is a great song done in the right way. I want to sing along, but it's embarrassing to sing over a voice as awesome as Mr.Rock's .It would be like looking at a Monet through dark sunglasses. You never paint over a picture. In this song, Roy Z. treats us to a couple of slower solos. So take it all in and soar to the sky, like an eagle, with us. Throughout this cd we have Roy Z.'s TRIBE OF GYPSIES partner Gregg Analla on backing vocals. The next couple of songs have special guests too. On guitar from BADLANDS we have-Jake E. Lee .And on bass, from the St. Louis Rams and LIFE AFTER DEATH ,it's Ray Burke. The first, "All I Need" is a melodic rocker that has Jake E. leaning all over it. And "Media Machine" is for anyone who writes anything negative about this cd-or any cd for that matter. The pen is mightier than the sword, but a great vocalist, great guitar player and band are more powerful then a locomotive with some guy in first class typing negative thoughts. So let it be written so let it be done."In The Night" starts out like a power ballad, then lays down a groove that takes us to another astonishing solo from the Z-man. he great background vocals are outshined by the brightness of Rob's lightning vocals. His voice, almost going where no mortal man should go or be able to reach. "Never Too Late", hey, even Rob can pick up the pace vocally. The lyrics are fast-paced, almost faster then the rhythm section. I don't know, can someone really be taught to sing this good? Or is it a God given talent? Folks, face it, this guy is Blessed.Just when you thought "Judgment Day" and "Eagle" were two of the best songs I've heard in ages, along comes "Forever". I wish this song did last forever. I know I won't be forgetting it soon. Starting with just soft guitars and the voice of one of the premiere vocalists in any genre. If anyone can go from a whisper to a scream, it's Rob Rock .His control and passion is truly inspiring. And for guitars? Listen to solo #1,then listen to solo #2 and then the outro-enough said!Rob couldn't have picked better songs, better players or a better producer at a better time. This is a total package. If I had one gripe (yea right!) it would have to be length. The songs fly by. Is it that good? Yes. I've listened to it about 50 times just to make sure. And I still can't get enough of this rage of creation. I'm hoping their will be a single released in Japan, because whatever Rob saved for B-sides, has got to be good too. I love leftovers.So if you've made it through this review, I thank you. If you buy the CD, Rob thanks you. And I would like to thank all of the artists who brought this creation to the surface. - The Rocker ROB ROCK "Rage Of Creation" Rob Rock surely is one of the most demanded singers in the rock biz. His career started way back in 1986 with the fantastic M.A.R.S. PROJECT DRIVER album (together with Tony MacAlpine - guitars, Tommy Aldridge - drums and Rudy Sarzo - bass). Then came the first Impelitteri EP in 1987. With Impellitteri, Rob has released six CDs up to now (most of them having gained success only in Japan, unfortunately being more or less unnoticed in the rest of the world), before he left the band earlier this year. Besides Impelitteri, there was the not so great Angelica CD, the very good Joshua INTENSE DEFENSE album, a never officially released Driver demo (with Roy Z from Tribe Of Gypsies on guitars, Emil Lech - bass and Greg Shultz - keyboards, both from Joshua, and Reynold "Butch" Carlson, ex-Jag Panzer, on drums) and the Axel Rudi Pell album NASTY REPUTATION. Now Rob presents the first album under his own name, produced by the above mentioned Roy Z. The lineup features Roy Z on guitars and some bass tracks, Jake E Lee (ex-Ozzy Osbourne/ Badlands) doing lead guitar on the songs "All I Need" and "Media Machine", Ray Burke (Life After Death) performing bass on some tracks and the ex-Driver and Jag Panzer member Butch Carlson on drums. Roy Z's Tribe Of Gypsies colleague Greg Analla is doing backing vocals. After the two minute opener "In The Beginning", there are two very fast tracks, "The Sun Will Rise Again" and "One Way Out", reminding alot of Impellitteri. The next track "Judgment Day" goes into another direction, a very hard track with a grungy sound and guitars similar to Rob Halford's Fight project. With "Streets Of Madness", there comes one of the highlights on the album. It starts a bit Tribe Of Gypsies-like, a very atmospheric verse, and then turns into a riff monster similar to the Hammerfall hymns. Roy Z is delivering a fantastic fret work with Iron Maiden-like melody lines. "Eagle" is an Abba cover version with a very hard and dragging rhythm. "Beautiful Lady" is the only ballad on the album, a song with nice acoustic guitars. Unfortunately this tune is only available on the Japanese edition. Then come the two tracks with Jake E Lee on lead guitar. "All I Need" and "Media Machine", two midtempo tracks, the latter reminding a bit of Ozzy. "Into The Night" is another highlight. A stomping rhythm, first class refrain and true metal "whoa whoa" background vocals, this song has to be played at full volume! "Never Too Late" is another track in the Impellitteri direction, with a faster rhythm. At the end of the album there is the bombast track "Forever", containing a wonderful Roy Z guitar solo. A fantastic hymn starting as a ballad and turning into a midtempo song. To sum it up: RAGE OF CREATION is a fantastic CD, better than some Impellitteri outputs. Rob Rock proves that he is one of the best hardrock shouters. I can't wait to get the new Warrior CD, because the vocals will be done by... I'll give you three guesses. Rating: 9.5 Review by: Tom ROB ROCK "Rage Of Creation" Artist: ROB ROCK … Album: Rage Of Creation … Label: JVC/ Victor … Style: Heavy Metal … Release date: out now in Japan Debut solo album from vocalist extraordinaire, should appeal to any fans of Maiden, Dio and Priest Former IMPELLTTERI/ DRIVER vocalist Rob Rock is back with his first solo album which comes along on the classiest heavy metal vein you could imagine: it's sounds like a cool mix between early IRON MAIDEN, DIO and JUDAS PRIEST - and that's meant as a compliment. The album kicks of with "In The Beginning"/ "The Sun Will Rise Again" where you can hear the MAIDEN call before "One Way Out" will blow your speakers in Helloween meets Impellitteri style! "Judgment Day" though offers some more modern guitar riffing but nevertheless always keeps the melody. One of my absolutely fave tracks on "Rage Of Creation" definitely is the amazing ABBA cover tune "Eagle" which seems to have been made for a metal shouter like Rock. The Dio influences come highly out in "All I Need" whereas the very fast "Media Machine" and the ballad "In The Night" proofs that Rock's voice is very diverse. Over all a fantastic metal album which is pure class in performance, song-writing and production that is highly superior to the latest releases of the above mentioned bands. tracklist: 1. In The Beginning, 2. The Sun Will Rise Again, 3. One Way Out, 4. Judgment Day, 5. Streets Of Madness, 6. Eagle, 7. All I Need, 8. Media Machine, 9. In The Night, 10. Never Too Late, 11. Forever line-up: Rob Rock - vocals; Roy Z - guitars, bass; Reynold Carlson - drums; Greg Analla - bk vocals; guests: Jake E. Lee - guitars; Ray Burke - bass Country of origin: USA ROB ROCK "Rage Of Creation" Tracklist: In The Beginning / The Sun Will Rise Again / One Way Out / Judgment Day / Streets Of Madness / Eagle / All I Need *# / Media Machine # / In The Night* / Never Too Late* / Forever / Beautiful Lady (bonus track) Playing time: ca. 52:00 min. Musicians: Rob Rock (vocals), Roy Z (guitars, bass, keyboards), Reynold Carlson (drums), Gregory Analla (background vocals), Ray Burke (bass on*), Jake E. Lee (guitars on #) Producer: Roy Z M.A.R.S., DRIVER, ANGELICA, JOSHUA, AXEL RUDI PELL, IMPELLITTERI... Rob Rock has sung for so many great Heavy Metal acts in the last years and it was always his exceptional voice, that formed the class and the style of killer-albums like "Nasty Reputation" or "Eye Of The Hurricane". Now it was finally time for Rob Rock to record a solo album and I can promise you, that everyone of you, who likes Rob's previous work, will get addicted to "Rage Of Creation". Together with his former DRIVER band mate Roy Z, he recorded a first-class Melodic Metal album, that unites all trademarks and elements, Rob Rock has become known for through the last years. After the short intro "In The Beginning", the album starts with the razor-sharp and very catchy up-tempo hymns "The Sun Will Rise Again" and "One Way Out", which remind me a little of the classic IMPELLITTERI and DRIVER stuff. The following "Judgment Day" is the best song Rob Rock has ever recorded. Based on a brutal guitar riff by Roy Z, that sounds a little similar to Bruce Dickinson's "Chemical Wedding" material, the song starts very doomy, before it suddenly turns into another catchy up-tempo hymn. Genius! "Streets Of Madness" is a straight rocking headbanger that sounds like a crossing of classic JUDAS PRIEST and IRON MAIDEN. Both of these bands would be proud if they could present a song like this on their next album! Next song is the gigantic cover version of the ABBA classic "Eagle". The song was already covered a few times before (maybe you remember the cover versions by SARGANT FURY and BALAAM & THE ANGEL?), but there's no doubt about it, that Rob's version is the best of all! The song spreads the same mystic atmosphere as AXEL RUDI PELL's "Land Of The Giants". Great! "All I Need" is a uncompromising rocker with a very melodic hookline, that is made for Rob's powerful voice. "Media Machine" is pure Heavy Metal dynamite with a fantastic guitar playing by former Ozzy Osbourne/BADLANDS guitarist Jake E. Lee. "In The Night" is a powerful and head crushing riff monster, that breaks down every wall! F***ing great! "Never To Late" could have been taken from IMPELLITTERI's "Eye Of The Hurricane" album and I swear, that it would have been the best song on it. "Forever" is a high melodic mid-tempo tune, that I can use only one word for: Killer! Only the pomp ballad "Beautiful Lady" (bonus track for Japan) is not my cup of tea, but that doesn't change the fact, that "Rage Of Creation" will be the best Melodic Metal album of the year 2000! Rating: 97% AOR Heaven - The Home of the Melodic Rock Excerpt from Catalogue/Newsletter July/August 2000 The hottest new releases ~ (Page 9) It was a bit surprising that Chris Impellitteri and his top-notch vocalist has parted company, but I guess Mr. Impellitteri was a bit envious about "Rage of Creation", which is miles ahead of any Impellitteri album and it simply kicks out the s**t while it's much more song-oriented than any Imp CD. Produced and co-written by his buddy in the DRIVER days, Roy Z, who is becoming the top hard rock producer at the moment, this CD is full of classic hard rock tunes in the vein of Dio's "Holy Diver" era, Iron Maiden at "Number of the Beast" and DRIVER - also Jake E. Lee (Badlands, Ozzy), plays guitar on the ultimate hard rock album of the year - no doubt about that! ROB ROCK - Rage Of Creation (JVC/Victor Entertainment) After parting ways with guitarist Chris Impelliteri and his group, vocalist Rob Rock decided to join forces with Heavy Metal maestro Roy Z and ex- Jag Panzer drummer Reynold Carlson in order to release his first ever solo album entitled "Rage Of Creation". Rob is undoubtedly one of the most charismatic throats in the business but on "Rage Of Creation" he has even surpassed himself. His singing is simply unbelievable and his voice reaches the skies in almost every single track of the album. Of course this is heavily assisted by Roy's master-class guitar playing, which when combined with Carlson's merciless drum punching makes this album a Heavy Metal storm that devastates everything in its way. The opening instrumental "In The Beginning" gives only a little glimpse of what is to come, but the fast and furious "The Sun Will Rise Again", which follows, will surely declare what this album is all about: Heavy Metal played as it was supposed to be, by musicians who are masters of their instruments and who can definitely deliver the goods to the masses of Heavy Metal enthusiasts around the world. Roy fires his blazing riffs from everywhere and Rob is more than happy to lift his voice to the maximum in order to match the power that Carlson unleashes behind the drum-kit. Just listen to "Streets Of Madness" and if you don't bang your head like a maniac then you are probably dead! Its acoustic intro may fool some, but trust me, this is just the calm before the storm! The song breaks into a massive guitar riff that marches all the way to an epic chorus, which reminds me a lot of Iron Maiden's "Somewhere In Time" era. All tracks on this CD are near excellent but let me note just two more songs, which I think are quite exceptional. The first one is a cover of ABBA's "Eagle". This track has been transformed into a mid-tempo epic anthem, one of those that Joey DeMaio or David DeFeis would kill to write! The second one, and the last track of the album, is called "Forever" and it serves as the best showcase of Rob's vocal abilities. During the chorus Rob lifts his voice so high that I have to give a "don't try this at home" caution! Believe me... I tried to sing along and the only thing that I succeeded was to damage my voice! Unfortunately, "Rage Of Creation" is only available in Japan at the moment. A European release is expected sometime around October. If you can order this CD as an import from somewhere, then fine. Otherwise wait another 3 months and you will witness by yourself one of the best releases of the year! You can visit Rob's official website @ www.robrock.com. Chris Condos, Editor Sweet Suffering - www.sweet-suffering.de. IT'S HERE! The most explosive heavy metal release of the year! Rob Rock, the man of high heavy metal musical standard is back. Rob Rock first came to public attention through his works on the M.A.R.S Project Driver, Joshua's Intense Defense, Angelica, Axel Rudi Pell's Nasty Reputation, Driver, and Impellitteri. This new project "Rage of Creation" has been picked up by JVC Victor Entertainment, Japan. Rob Rock recruited Roy Z and Butch Carlson from his previous DRIVER lineup and added musician friends Jake E. Lee , Ray Burke, and Greg Analla. Rob has that God-given ability to shake loose all the power a song can muster. Put him with a powerful songwriter and guitarist like Roy Z and you've got a deadly combination. "Rage of Creation" is one of those albums that gets better with each listen. While all the previous Impellitteri albums were basically of the Chris Impellitteri and Rob Rock dynamic duo, "Rage of Creation" is a record that went for the "live" vibe and sounds like a band. "In the Beginning" starts off the album with a beautiful, instrumental, and anthemic prelude to the song "The Sun will rise again", a driving rhythm track with blazing leads, anthemic BGV's on each chorus and Reynold's tasty drum fills. Then comes another smokin' track "One way out" with a great thundering drums accompanied by a heavy and melodic riff. In my opinion, the biggest musical departure is in "Judgment Day", it is a stylistic tune incorporating different flavors. "Judgment Day" features an array of sounds thrown in guitar tones and in the rhythm. "Street of Madness" and "Eagle" sets the record on fire. "Street of Madness" start things off with a plods with a heaviness factor then with a great smokin' tune and awesome guitar playing (Remember the Black Sabbath with Dio's "Die Young"? . . . ), "Street of Madness" is a driving and powerhouse cut. The highlight here is the unexpected cover of the old ABBA classic, "Eagle" (Who would've ever guessed this recipe for a cover of ABBA?). Rob Rock's musical creativity and genius shows in this track. He did it better than the original and It's a lot bigger and heavier sounding than the original. "Eagle" is likened to Black Sabbath's "Heaven and Hell" tune, it is a melodic heavy metal style ballad that finally finds the band delivering a kick-butt awesome song. Put this on the radio and watch it climb the charts! The voice of Rob Rock . . . Ahh, it's so beautiful and the solo shows Roy Z getting warmed up! (Roy could have soloed more than an hour in this song . . . he is simply Awesome!). "Eagle" is a kind of song that inspires the listeners and it has life. "Beautiful Lady" is a beautiful classical guitar-based ballad that bleeds of emotion. Rob Rock's voice carries the song in a very pleasant melodic direction. This is one of those songs that's a delight for any singer with soul. Another highlights here are the killer tunes "All I Need" and "Media Machine", great tunes that featured former Ozzy Osbourne and Badlands guitarist Jake E. Lee. "In the Night" and "Never too Late" have monster riffs that are filled with passion. Roy Z's guitar tones are so hot you'd think he blew some speakers along the way. The album ends on a high note, with the last song "Forever" being a very strong melodic hard rock tune. Roy Z is hot and smokin' on the way out. It's great to see a band successfully draw from the past without sounding like a parody of that past. Rob Rock kicks butt yesterday and today. This album will undoubtedly stay in my car stereo a long time. This album features some of the heaviest and best heavy metal tunes ever recorded. Almost every style a guitarist would want to hear is represented here. Roy Z does an excellent job producing this magnum opus. Overall, this album has fire and bring us into a higher & superior level of heavy metal music. The song-writing is outstanding and original. Rob Rock and his buddies have done a professional job writing good tunes and it sounds like they had a good time doin' it. "Rage of Creation" is a winner and the best heavy metal album I've ever heard! It's a must have! . . . and don't forget to Play it Loud! - Charlie L. Yap Rob Rock has been active in the world of hardrock for quite some time now. The last few years he was the singer in Chris Impelliteri's band and now he thinks it's time to start up a solo career. On Rage Of Creation he knows himself surrounded by a few very good musicians of whom Roy Z (who was also responsible for the production) and Jake E. Lee are the most well known.. With his powerful voice Rock treats us to eleven rockhard classic hardrock songs while he never looses sight of the melody. When you're used to a guitarvirtuoso like Chris Impelliteri you won't settle for - much - less of course and Roy Z - just like Jake E. Lee - is playing the stars from the sky on Rage Of Creation. Time after time these gentlemen produce one great riff after the other, but they know how to play a solo as well. Just listen to Roy's excellent guitarwork on the closing song Forever. Most surprising song on the album is the ABBA-cover Eagle which has been given a very convincing rocktreatment. Ritchie Blackmore once said that ABBA was the perfect popband. The fact that their songs are very suitable for a more solid performance has already been demonstrated by Helloween and Yngwie Malmsteen. And now it's Rob Rock's turn to come up with his version of an ABBA-song which he does very successfully. All in all Rage Of Creation is a great debut, but I didn't expect anything else from someone with such a record of service. Unfortunately at the moment the CD will only be available in Japan (releasedate was July 26th) but chances are there will be a European release soon. Let's prayÖ MMMM½ Fred Monster