RANDALL WALLER is a master Australian rock guitarist with a resume that reads like a who’s who of rock ‘n’ roll – AOR fans will remember his ’80s band AVION – but later he has spent most of his career living overseas working with artists like Elton John, Shania Twain, Rose Tattoo, Keith Urban, even the Backstreet Boys! He’s played at the Grammys, the SuperBowl – from Madison Square Garden to Wembley.
Now RANDALL WALLER took the time for a new solo album “More“, where the musician unleashes a sonic whirlwind of hard rocking songs. A tour de force of blistering guitar work and heart-pounding rhythms, Waller’s deft fretwork is on full display, weaving a tapestry of searing riffs and face-melting solos, plus strong vocals.
There’s guest spots from the likes of Richard Fortus (Guns N’ Roses), Sam McNally (Air Supply) and more friends, however essentially this is WALLER’s own beast. Musically this is updated melodic hard rock, some kind of a mix between Kane Roberts, current Winger, Joel Hoekstra, some Paul Sabu, etc. And quality songwriting is the star here.
Waller’s experience as session musicians and touring guitarist for some of the industry’s biggest names shines through in every meticulously crafted riff and solo. It’s evident that he has honed his craft to perfection, and his mastery of the electric guitar is the other highlight throughout the album.
From the get-go, “More” propels listeners into a world of fast, loud, hard rock music with melody that is tailor-made for the open road. The first track, “Left Behind,” wastes no time, hitting with a fierce energy that sets the tone for the entire album.
The track list takes listener on a rollercoaster ride, with each song offering a unique flavor of rock music. “On The Brink” and “Used To Know Everything” deliver intense, fast-paced rock that’s perfect for cranking up in the car during a late-night drive. Waller’s guitar work is the driving force behind these numbers, providing the kind of adrenaline rush that classic hard rock enthusiasts crave.
However, “More” isn’t all about loud and fast; it also delves into more introspective moments. “Love Goes On” as an acoustic ballad with a flashback to the 1970s and 1980s style hit on the air waves.
Then ”The Hunger” is a hard rock anthem, with groove and melody. “Love Goes On” reveal Waller’s ability to convey deep emotions through his music. These tracks showcase his songwriting skills and his capacity to create music that’s not just about intensity but also about meaningful lyrics and melodies.
Waller continues to surprise with “Alpha State” and “Sugar Fix,” where he experiments with different sounds and moods. “Party Like a Rockstar” is a high-energy party anthem that’s bound to get crowds pumping their fists and singing along.
“Wilderness” and “Palace of Sand” provide a moment of respite in the album’s latter half, revealing Waller’s softer side. These tracks show a different dimension to his artistry, proving that he’s more than just a rock virtuoso.
With “The Best Days,” Waller leaves the listener with a sense of nostalgia and reflection. This song, with its warm acoustic tones and thoughtful lyrics, adds depth to a diverse and captivating album.
This offering showcases Waller’s musical versatility, his fiery guitar skills, and his knack for crafting memorable rock anthems filled with strong melodies. “More” is a testament to his enduring talent and his dedication to his craft. With a range of styles and emotions, this album is a really enjoyable listen for anyone who appreciates the power of the electric guitar and the raw energy of classic hard rock music, served with an updated sound.
With its blend of nostalgic nods to hard rock’s heyday and a contemporary edge, “More” solidifies Waller’s place as a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music. Randall Waller proves that he is more than just a guitarist for the stars; he’s a star in his own right. “More” is a rock album that leaves you wanting, well, more.
Highly Recommended
1. Left Behind
2. On The Brink
3. Love Goes On
4. The Hunger
5. God Complex
6. Alpha State
7. Sugar Fix
8. Party Like a Rockstar
9. Wilderness
10. Palace of Sand
11. The Best Days
12. Used To Know Everything
Randall Waller – vocals, guitars, bass, keys
Special guests:
Bass: Steve Dixon, Dario Bortolin
Keyboards: Sam McNally, Kurt Goebel
Drums: Pete Drummond
2nd solo on On The Brink: Richard Fortus
1st solo on Love Goes On: Irwin Thomas
End solos on The Best Days – left: Joel McDonald, right: Randall Waller
String arrangements on The Hunger: Kurt Goebel
Strings: The Budapest Scoring Orchestra
RANDALL WALLER (ex Avion) – More (2023)
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