It might be valid to say that you pretty much know what you are going to get from US hard rockers On Top but just as truthful to say that you are equally guaranteed a thoroughly enjoyable and rousing time with the Philadelphia hailing trio. The proof of both comes across a trio of EPs, one stomping debut album, and is evidenced again in their new offering, Top Dollar. The EP is another body rocking, spirit lighting romp of eighties inspired rock ‘n’ roll with the band which maybe shares few major surprises but offers plenty of satisfying goodness.
Recorded with Joe DeLuca at Why Me Recording in Gibbsboro, NJ, Top Dollar also sees the first recorded outing of the band’s newest member in guitarist Ric Haas alongside vocalist/bassist Jaron Gulino and drummer Danny Piselli. Whether it is partly due to his individual style or natural evolution, there is a fresh almost raw edge to the band’s sound certainly in comparison to predecessor Topless. Opener Lovin’ The Devil quickly confirms that suggestion, its tone and air a fiery proposal driven with a new hungry urgency which instantly has the feet tapping and hips rocking. Haas quickly makes his mark as a melodic flame escapes his guitar, the moment a trigger for a heated escapade around the bracing swings of Piselli and vocal enticement of Gulino. Teasing with LA Guns meets Mötley Crüe like hues; the track is one fiercely enjoyable stomp.
The following Walk The Walk shows a bit more restraint in its attack as a Rage Against The Machine scented grooving and attitude swiftly hits the spot. Grooves again entice and rhythms snap, Gulino’s bass a prowling incitement within the sonic blaze as his vocals heartily roar. The anthemic prowess of the On Top writing and sound has never been subdued but is fully uncaged within the second track and in turn its successor Everything. The track is simply balls swinging, chest thumping rock ‘n’ roll; an almost punkish assault so unite one’s eager energies with.
The EP concludes with This Way, track which may not quite live up to the heights of its companions for personal tastes yet burns its persuasion into ears and thoughts with increasing potency by the second. Again the raw air the band has found enhances song and pleasure; a trait hopefully they will continue to pursue ahead especially as the final song shows it works so well with their instinctive creation of melodic enticement.
Once more On Top give us a rich dose of what they do best, unleash familiar but freshly designed rock ‘n’ roll, and once more the threesome leave ears drenched in pleasure.
Top Dollar is out now on Horror Pain Gore Death and available @ http://www.horrorpaingoredeath.com/store/hpgd154.html and https://hpgd.bandcamp.com/album/top-dollar
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Pete RingMaster 22/08/2017
Copyright RingMaster: MyFreeCopyright
