ALBUM REVIEW ~ ROBIN MCAULEY ~ 'ALIVE'

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Legendary Irish rock vocalist Robin McAuley is 70 years old. You read that right, 70!

In my book, that puts him amongst the ranks of other freakishly amazing septuagenarian vocalists still rocking out, including Sammy Hagar, Robin Zander, Alice Cooper, Pat Benatar and Steven Tyler.

I loved his work in the classic McAuley Schenker Group (did you know that they were Rikki Rachtman’s first guests on MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball?). I rediscovered Robin as the frontman of the supergroup Black Swan, where he joined forces with Reb Beach (Whitesnake, Winger), Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, ex-Dokken) and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big).

But I didn’t truly appreciate his gift as a singer until I saw him perform live in Raiding the Rock Vault in Las Vegas. Commanding a stage with other members of rock royalty and belting out the genre’s greatest hits showcased his talents in a way that demanded a standing ovation.

Robin’s voice continues to defy time on his new album, Alive, released February 17 on Frontier Records. If you’re a fan of melodic, infectious, fist-pumping hard rock, this album needs to be in your collection.

The epic opener and title track quickly builds into an anthemic hit and highlights the talents of Robin’s band, guitarist Andrea Seveso, bassist/keyboardist Alessandro Del Vecchio (who also produced the album) and drummer Nicholas Papapicco.

“Dead as a Bone” is up next and includes a riff reminiscent of KISS’ killer track, “Black Diamond.” There may be a subtle similarity, but make no mistake, it’s an original – and a burner.

Seveso shreds on the following two religiously titled songs, “Bless Me Father,” and “Feel Like Hell,” both of which beg to be heard live and loud. Let’s hope we get that opportunity on a tour to support the release of this record.

“Can’t Go On” is the prototypical power ballad. Yet another story of lost love that I could do without, but still shines a light on Robin’s powerful vocals and the band’s undeniable talent. This album is strong enough to stand on its own without the obligatory heart wrencher, but I understand why it’s there.

If it’s possible, Robin’s vocals get even stronger on tracks like “My Only Son” and “When the Time Has Come.” His range and tone are on point, and he hits the (very) high notes with ease. Did I mention that he’s 70 years old? And not that looks are everything, but the guy doesn’t look like he’s a day over 50!

Whatever Robin’s drinking, I’ll take two! This album is a keeper.

I’m Music Magazine Writer Steve Pawlowski