Australian rockers PALACE OF THE KING have been working hard during the last decade. Thus far, the band released three studio albums, two EPs, toured the world multiple times as headliner and with Airbourne, and toured Australia constantly with Rose Tattoo and countless others.
Now they are releasing new album “Friends In Low Places“, a high energy 10-tracker classic rocker which brings back fond memories of early Aerosmith, Guns N’ Roses classic rock bluesy side, Black Crowes, and a vocalist – Tim Henwood – that evoke the likes of Robert Plant, Josh Kiszka and Steve Marriott.
“Friends In Low Places” has been produced by Henwood and mixed by Ricki Rae (Baby Animals) obtaining a visceral, traditional classic rock ‘n roll sound akin the ’70s, yet updated to current technology.
On many tracks, PALACE OF THE KING delivers a killer 3-guitar attack supplied by Leigh Maden, Seany Johnston and Henwood himself, but the energy screaming from the speakers and hitting you in the face is that of the rhythm section, Cameron Mcglinchey on drums and Anthony Licciardi on bass.
It’s like a rock n roll steam roller flattening everything in it’s path.
One example of the impressive ensemble of guitarists, each contributing their distinctive talents to the mix, can be found on opener ‘Children Of The Evolution’, a song blending thunderous riffs, soaring vocals, with a pulsating rhythm section. The result is a tapestry of powerful guitar work, adding depth and intensity.
‘A Run For Your Money‘ is highlighted by great keyboard / piano playing as well as that guitar histrionics, and early Black Crowes come to mind. there’s an infectious chorus to ‘I’m Sorry Blues’, then ‘Tear It Down’ is pure Aussie hard rock recalling Rose Tattoo, kick ass song.
Then for a more Americanized classic rock circa 1978 check out ‘Down On Your Luck’, infused with passion for storytelling and a fantastic guitar work. For some awesome crazy bluesy jam including organ runs, harmonica and hot guitars, play ‘Dead End Blues’.
If you like dirty classic rock n’ roll get your ears around, “Friends In Low Places” is the right place indeed.
HIGHLY Recommended
01 – Children Of The Evolution
02 – A Run For Your Money
03 – Friends In Low Places
04 – Get Right With Your Maker
05 – Down On Your Luck
06 – Tell It Like It Is
07 – I’m Sorry Blues
08 – Tear It Down
09 – One Of These Days
10 – Dead End Blues
Tim Henwood – vocals, guitar
Seany Johnston – guitar, keyboards
Leigh Maden – guitar
Anthony Licciardi – bass
Cameron McGlinchey – drums
PALACE OF THE KING – Friends In Low Places (2023)
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