Torch Of Rock And Roll
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
Listen to Torch Of Rock And Roll
A hard hitting outfit from Vancouver, Canada that’s led by Tim Steinruck, The Mighty One is now home to drummer Gabriel Bob Wagner and bassist Gustavo Valderrama, too, and together the trio illuminate all the hallmarks of hard rock that we will never tire of.
“Coming On” starts the listen with some atmosphere and chanting before bursting into thick riffs and furious drumming as powerful singing enters the heavy, grungy climate, and the title track follows with swirling guitar work, calmer moments of beauty, and bouts of booming hard rock.
Entering the middle, the rhythmic “Disrupter” flows with a contagious energy that displays incredible drumming and plenty of grit, while “Burden” trims the pace back with a reflective tone in the soaring, even dreamy landscape. “Master Of Reality” then brings the intensity back with firm chugging amid light and dark textures that are so large, they could fill arenas.
Landing near the end, “Kickin’ Stones” leads with warm piano before building into an anthemic and giant fusion of sturdy, dynamic rock, and “When This Is Over” exits the listen with a swift buzzing version of alt-rock, metal and even subtle post-hardcore.
Steinruck’s musical career is a lengthy and esteemed one that even involves signing a record deal with Paul Stanley way back in 1989. He’s been refining his skills ever since, and, as evidenced by this exceptional album, is doing his best work yet.
Travels well with: Because Villains- Yes; The Guilty Lenses- Somewhat Romance, Somewhat Poetry