This didn't make much of a headway, due to restricted release, but once again proves that it's not always the big bands who have the biggest talent. Even without one of my favourite vocalists, Matt Kramer, Saigon Kick still write some of the most moving songs ever. Far removed from hair metal despite once being lumped in with that category, since Jason Bieler has taken over, SK are more of a Beatles/ Euro-pop/rock act big on lush choruses, sweeping strings, quirky funky '60s grooves and lightweight love ballads. One major negative however to this is the fact that they've lost the swagger of the first two albums which I personally think are metal classics. But, if you like your rock alternative, cheerful and smouldering, then 'A Lot Like You' and 'So Sad To Say' will have you at once bopping, popping and hopping and the next reaching for the box of tissues as you weep to another SK love track.
The band write such catchy tunes that only Enuff Z Nuff have bettered more consistently. The jangle of 'Meet Your Maker' is so wistful with it's lighter-waving chorus, ala Oasis, 'Break My Heart' is pure American pop-rock but 'Who's Crying Now' doesn't allow us to forget the days of reasonably rocking guitars, although this is pure bubblegum Beatles, whilst 'Big Shot' is a real stomper.
I love Saigon Kick in whatever form, but can't help but feel that with Matt Kramer at the helm we are dealing with a far more mystical and edgy animal. Still, this last effort is a fitting finale for a very cool yet criminally underrated band.
8/10
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