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Tommy's Rocktrip: Beat Up By Rock N Roll
Tommy's Rocktrip - Beat Up By Rock N Roll Album Art

Tommy's Rocktrip: Beat Up By Rock N Roll

(Melodic) Heavy Rock
4.0/5.0

Internet (Label)
Frontiers Music
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 05.12.2021 | Released: 07.05.2021

When some think of drummers, particularly in this modern era, Tommy Clufetos may not be the first musician to come to mind. But you do know him, at least the acts that he's played with. Early in his career it was Alice Cooper, Ted Nugent, Rob Zombie, and guitar maverick John 5. Later he filled in for Bill Ward on Black Sabbath's reunion and farewell tour The End. Now the drummer turns to making his own music with his first solo album, Beat Up By Rock N Roll. The title may be psuedo-biographical considering Clufetos' resume. Also, the album features guitarist and vocalist Eric Dover from Jellyfish, Slash's Snakepit, and Alice Cooper.

Tommy's Rocktrip - Click For Larger Image

Tommy's Rocktrip

With a few spins of Beat Up By Rock N Roll, I can make a few observations. First, you can't expect anything akin to his work with those other aforementioned acts. Second, and somewhat conversely, Clufeto's songwriting veers more towards heavy rock which can feel dense, thick, and thumping. You'll find this with Do It Again, Make Me Smile, Welcome To The Show, and especially the aptly titled Heavy Load. Third, Eric Dover's vocals seem to be muted throughout or, to continue the metaphor, beat up by the rock n roll. Clufetos finds the microphone for Make Me Smile, Beat Up By Rock N’ Roll, and Power Of Three. Fourth, this album is definitely a drummer's album. Aspiring skin swatters should take a listen. Clufetos definitely knows how to put the rhythm and groove, and power, into his rock n roll. Take note of his technique and strength within Kid Blood, Got To Play Some Rock N’ Roll, and The Longevity.

For some final thoughts, in light of that previous observation, I was most impressed when that rock n roll groove came through as with You Got The Cash, I Got The Flash, Beat Up By Rock N’ Roll, or the fast and punkish Don't Be Afraid. Alternatively, within the rock of Power Of Three, I Thought I heard a rockabilly vibe; I did hear some great saxophone.

All things (mostly) considered, Tommy Clufetos' Rocktrip and Beat Up By Rock N’ Roll is an inspired and aspiring album of classic melodic heavy rock characterized by awesome groove, fine drumming, and soaring guitar work. Recommended.




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The Take Away

Tommy Clufetos' Rocktrip and Beat Up By Rock N’ Roll is an inspired and aspiring album of classic melodic heavy rock characterized by awesome groove, fine drumming, and soaring guitar work. Recommended.

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