ALBUM REVIEW ~ JOEL HOEKSTRA'S 13 ~ 'CRASH OF LIFE'

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The term “supergroup” is thrown around far too often in music these days. But when you’re talking about Joel Hoekstra on guitar (Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Revolution Saints), Tony Franklin on bass (Blue Murder, The Firm), drummer Vinny Appice (Last In Line, ex-Dio, Black Sabbath), keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Sons Of Apollo, Black Country Communion), a touch of Jeff Scott Soto on backing vocals and relative newcomer Girish Pradhan on lead vocals (Girish And The Chronicles, The End Machine), I think it applies here!

This all-star lineup shines on the upcoming third release from Joel Hoekstra’s 13, Crash Of Life, out on June 16 on Frontiers Music.

I have to admit, I wasn’t familiar with Pradhan, but this powerhouse vocalist from Gangtok, Sikkim, India, has an instant appeal and does not disappoint. His made-for-rock reach and range is showcased on songs like “Damaged Goods” and “Torn Into Lies.”

“Make it Through the Night” may be the best vocal performance on the album. In a world of backing tracks and laptops, this talented frontman is the real deal.

With Hoekstra taking the lead on the creative process, overseeing production, songwriting, and arranging (music and lyrics), you know you’re getting a solid rock and roll record.

It’s not hard to understand why so many industry heavyweights want to work with him. Crash Of Life is filled with juicy little hooks, sledgehammer riffs and a lot of substance. Hoekstra is in full-on guitar-hero mode on this album!

Truth be told, I love Tony Franklin – the “Fretless Monster.” Any review of this album would be remiss not to mention his artistry on the bass. A legendary musician to be sure.

And don’t miss Derek Sherinian’s flashy brilliance on the keys on “Find a Way.”

“Far Too Deep,” “Not Tonight,” and “I Would Cry for Love,” are catchy, arena rock, sing-along tracks that deserve to be heard by the masses. This album is definitely a pleasant surprise, full of in-your-face rock and roll and no filler.

The resumes of these talented musicians speak for themselves. Fans of melodic hard rock – do yourself a favor and check out Crash Of Life. Highly recommended!

I’m Music Magazine Writer Steve Pawlowski