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By GREG MAKI
It may be a sacrilege to say it, but Damone’s version of Iron Maiden’s “Wasted Years” is one of the best covers I have heard in a long time. Twenty years after the song graced Maiden’s Somewhere in Time album, Damone has stripped the song down to acoustic guitar, orchestral accompaniment and the voice of singer/guitarist Noelle. A heavy metal anthem is now a mournful ballad. It works amazingly well and shows the songwriting prowess of Maiden’s Adrian Smith. And it’s great to see a band not so obviously influenced by Maiden throw some recognition their way.
“Wasted Years” is the finale of Damone’s second album, Out Here All Night, but you shouldn’t disregard the first 11 songs. There’s nothing truly exceptional here, just catchy rock songs influenced by bands who knew rock music is supposed to be about having gun. I’m talking about bands like Mötley Crüe and others who had their heyday in the ‘80s. The female lead also makes comparisons to The Runaways unavoidable. But there is enough of a modern twist to keep things fresh. The riff of the title track is reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age. Among the other highlights are the bouncy “What We Came Here For” with a chorus ready-made for concert sing-alongs and “Outta My Way,” which has the feel of a classic KISS tune.
The riffs are strong throughout the album. Throw in an occasional solo by lead guitarist Mike W., memorable hooks and an overall upbeat vibe, and you have the perfect disc for when you just want to rock out and have a good time.
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