Xtra Cherries
Cleopatra, 2025
9/10
The veteran rockers Enuff Z’nuff are back with their 21st album, and it’s 11 new tracks of their power-pop and melodic rock ways that recruits some well known guests.
“Heartbeat” opens the listen with frontman Chip Z’nuff’s gritty yet tuneful voice alongside warm piano, and “No Cold Feeling” follows with Daxx Nielsen’s pounding drums that suit the festive spirit and bouncy climate.
In the middle, “Magnificent” enlists Jason Camino and Luis Kalil’s dense guitar licks in a thick delivery, while “Back To The Wall” blends power and melody into an album highlight that swirls with an infectious energy.
Further yet, “Star Star” benefits from fuzzy guitars and rowdy piano which illuminates an upbeat mood that will get your body moving, and “Shine” exits with meticulous guitars, thumping drums, playful bass and sing-alongs for the anthemic finish.
Of all the ‘80s glam metal bands, I wouldn’t have put money on Enuff Z’nuff to be the ones still making top notch rock 35+ years later, but here we are with lush and hook fueled tunes plus cameos from Robin Zander (Cheap Trick), Robert Fleischman (Journey), Neal Schon (Journey), Steven Adler (GNR), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol) and Gunnar Nelson (Nelson).
Travels well with: L.A. Guns- Leopard Skin; Collective Soul- Here To Eternity