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Brock, Robin: Monsters

Melodic/Alternative Rock

Rating: 3.5/5.0

Independent/Self-promotion
www.robinbrock.com
www.myspace.com/robinbrockrocks
Review: Craig Hartranft,  01.25.2010

Robin Brock, hailing from Canada, returns with her third independent release Monsters. With a vocal style that moderates somewhere between Ann Wilson and Pat Benatar, Brock's music is squarely in the melodic rock camp. Her emphasis has always been on a solid vocal performance presented over assertive rhythms, nimble guitar work, and well-crafted arrangements. In her own words, Ms. Brock attempts pursuing more modern rock stylings on Monsters. For the most part, she has succeeded. This disc, if anything, is both creative and eclectic moving between heavier melodic rock (New Addiction) to rock with some prog nuances (Monsters) to more demure and subtle movements (Solitary Girl). With all the different arrangements Brock still is able to cut a crafty melody and a catchy tune as Two Words, Master and Slave, and 7 Pieces prove. Sometimes she nearly rips it up like a true rocker as on Warrior or Fuel.

Unfortunately, creativity or ingenuity, even in its best form, sometimes does not translate into accessibility. While Monsters benefits from Ms. Brock's vocal stylings and songwriting, her greatest strengths, I found the entire album difficult to grasp, even after repeated listens. Fundamentally, the eclecticism translated into incongruity. Additionally, the lyrical content often seems like the mere PMS rants of a disgruntled girlfriend (or feminist). Nevertheless, despite these few misgivings, Robin Brock excels at what she does best putting her impressive vocal skills to some creative alternative melodic rock with equally clever twists. Her fans and curious newcomers should explore this vibrant and eclectic material.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

On Monsters Robin Brock excels at what she does best putting her impressive vocal skills to some creative alternative melodic rock with equally clever twists. Her fans and curious newcomers should explore this vibrant and eclectic material.

Alphabetical Index

eviewing my archives, I was pleased to find that I have had the privilege to review every Lionville since their self-titled debut in 2011. Formed by Stefano Lionetti, a songwriter, singer and guitarist based in ... [ Read More ]