AXEL RUDI PELL
- Theofani Georgitsi
- Jan 27, 2025
- 2 min read
Title: Diamonds Unlocked II
Artist/Band: AXEL RUDI PELL
Country: Germany
Release date: 30/07/2021
Company: Steamhammer/SPV
Style: Hard Rock
German guitar wizard Axel Rudi Pell had been flirting with the concept of “Diamonds Unlocked II” for two or three years, and he’s also aware of the vast number of cover versions currently floating on the Internet, which he sees as a challenge. Of course it depends on the selection and variety of the material, but first and foremost it is the transformation of each individual track that matters. The result is so outstanding that Axel Rudi Pell is justly proud of his latest offering. He state: “Without patting myself on the back too loudly – this is an album worth listening to from start to finish.” Instead of delivering every single note so that it sounds exactly like the original, a cover album should, above all, be fun. And entertain and inspire the listener, an audio algorithm which makes you get out the original versions or the whole back catalogue of the artists presented. In this respect, “Diamonds Unlocked II” is an offer that no self-respecting hard rock fan can refuse. Axel with Johnny Gioeli and the rest band, making interesting covers to names like Sammy Hagar, RAINBOW, Paul Anka, GEORDIE, Tony Carey, Chris Norman, THE SUBWAYS, THE ROLLING STONES, Chris Norman, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins and ABBA! I choose tracks: “There’s Only One Way To Rock” (Sammy Hagar), “Lady Of The Lake” (RAINBOW), “She’s A Lady” (Paul Anka but better known from Tom Jones recording), “Sarah (You Take My Breath Away)” (Chris Norman), “I Put A Spell On You” (Screamin’ Jay Hawkins) and “Eagle” (ABBA). Covers on Chris Norman (also SMOKIE’s singer) and Paul Anka really surprised me! Classic Axel’s style guitars deeply influenced by Ritchie Blackmore, also great vocals, as always, by one of my favorite singers Mr. Johnny Gioeli (HARDLINE, CRUSH 40). I listened to it with pleasure. Enjoy it too!
Songwriting: 9
Musicianship: 9
Production: 10
Album cover: 10
Total rating: 9,5
Media:
Reviewed by: Theofani Georgitsi
- ALBUM REVIEWZ -
