Living Things
Ahead of the Lions

THE REVIEW

First of all, this is my first review, so if people judge it as low level, I can understand that. The CD I want to talk about, “Ahead Of The Lions,” is the second in the discography of the Living Things, even though the previous album, “Black Skies in Broad Daylight,” contains most of the songs present in this album.

It was released last year, but here in Italy, it has only recently come out. I must admit I bought this CD after seeing the video of “Bom Bom Bom,” the first single from the album, which immediately struck me for its musical energy but also for the beautiful visual accompaniment. Indeed, my initial impression, that of a band that knows how to do good hard rock, was confirmed in almost all 12 tracks of the album. I find it very useful and logical to talk about what I consider the most significant and representative songs of the band, although I keep repeating that all the songs hover around a more or less strong 3 stars.

The first song, “Bombs Below,” immediately conveys the idea of how much power these guys can unleash, hard guitar riffs, powerful drums, and a very peculiar voice from which one wouldn’t expect the throat of a young white guy, all skin and bones. “I Owe,” a beautiful song, bursts with energy from every pore and, with the following “Bom Bom Bom,” I consider them the two best. This last one, initially calm, with a somewhat vintage riff that will accompany us throughout the song, rises more and more until it explodes with the singer's voice accompanied by guitars/synth and drums. “New Year,” a very nice song with a beautiful chorus. “March in Daylight,” the ingredients remain the same, but the ability to create energy in every song, adopting very engaged lyrics, ensures they are never banal. “Keep It Till You Fold,” a needed pause for our ears, quite a calm song and a very pleasant listen. “Monster Of Man,” fantastic song, starts with only the drums and bass accompanying the pressing phrasing of singer Lillian Berlin, background sounds are added, until reaching the much-desired distorted guitar, bringing a familiar feel.

In my opinion, it's a really good CD that gives me hope for the future of this young band, all guitars and ultra-politicized lyrics.