With the demise of a couple of big bands Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, Dio, Ozzy) and Rex Brown (Pantera, Down) have teamed up with a killer Vocalist Dew Bragg and guitarist Mark Savon, both of whom have some impressive CV’s, well Savon that is, little is known about vocalist Bragg who combines the sultry tones of Alice In Chains’ fallen vocalist Layne Staley with Zakk Wylde, has impressive pipes and the resultant sound that transpires is immense, although seeing a neo-Nazi Punk band Skrewdriver patch on his clothing in some promo shots really doesn’t fill me with any level of respect than that of a recognised vocal talent, clearly a confused guy with the said article residing next to a Discharge logo…

But moving onto the music of Kill Devil Hill, it starts out promising. ‘War Machine’ is a groovy number, a little like slower Dio era Sabbath (both stints including Heaven & Hell) playing second fiddle with say that of Union’s first release, the solo is tuneful, masterful, it builds consistently and has a guitar tone that is perfect for this style of metal. Further into the music, I am reminded of latter day Ozzy and a lot of BLS. There is a little southern charm, a laid back attitude, listening to the intro to ‘Gates of Hell’ sounds like you are underwater (a lot of delay), its rather soothing, the bass lines pick you up from time to time, but I feel this is this albums issue. It is a little too laid back and similar sounding in places. However, for all the arrangements bring a frequent level of tedium to the table, I am reminded of the excellent guitar work, this is the ace in the pack. Of course, Appice’s drumming is both competent and compelling, but I am surprised that this big name partnership is camped in this style of metal, but it is a part of Appice’s own musical heritage.

This album continues Appice’s musical journey, the music a groovy, slow and dreamy in some places, Bragg’s vocals are a great touch, there is a fresh piece of talent found there for sure, Brown’s bass is the backbone but I really have to raise a glass to the guitar work. Unfortunately I don’t find this album having much staying power; I don’t hear that many memorable tunes or any major uplifting levels of excitement to rave about. This mini super group mix a few tried and tested influences that unfortunately results in an album that is for the purists of the band members past glories and influences, it does not have enough of its own merit to attract a new audience.

(5/10 Paul Maddison) 

http://www.killdevilhillmusic.com/