Lemmy Kilmister isn't just a man. He isn't just a musician. He is the living, breathing, whiskey-necking, cigar-smoking embodiment of rock 'n' roll, and has been bulldozing his way through the music industry for over 40 years. But, after 20 previous studio albums, their iconic frontman’s recent health troubles and constant accusations of every album sounding exactly the same, have Motörhead actually got anything left to say?
With the belligerent opening noise of Heartbreaker, it seems that Motörhead do, infact, have a shitload of stuff left to say. Pulsing with energy that bands half their age would be envious of, the trio set about quashing any rumours that they've lost their edge.
Heartbreaker is a rollicking rock 'n' roll anthem, possibly one of the best that the band have put out this side of the millennium. Containing an infectious shout-along chorus, this one is guaranteed to be a winner at the band's legendary live performances.
'Aftershock' contains enough diversity throughout to dispel the idea that Motörhead are just trotting out the same old stuff. While Heartbreaker and Coup De Grace could be shoved in the 'Motörhead by numbers' drawer, there's a renewed level of energy and vigour that gives the songs a refreshing quality.
Tunes such as Lost Woman Blues and Dust And Glass give listeners a chance to rearrange their faces and breathe for a bit - they're the classic, bluesy ballads that Motörhead do so well but, again, they feel different. Dust And Glass contains one of Lemmy's most vulnerable vocal performances ever, stripping away the whiskey-fuelled grunt he paints the rest of the album with.
Honky tonk piano is used to great effect in the chorus of Crying Shame, but falls somewhat flat on the tired refrain of Keep Your Powder Dry. This song, along with the forgettable drawl of Knife, prove to be the only dud tracks on an otherwise fantastic outing.
There are so many tunes here that could be contenders for live highlights. Whether it’s the speed-metal thrashing of album closer Paralyzed, the catchy bassline of Queen Of The Damned or mid-album highlight Going To Mexico, 'Aftershock' gives fans even more reason to love them. Nobody else sounds like Motörhead, and nobody ever will. Lemmy is a genuine legend, and there will never be another like him. Long live Lemmy.
Thu February 13th 2014 - GLASGOW O2 Academy Glasgow
Fri February 14th 2014 - NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Newcastle City Hall
Sun February 16th 2014 - MANCHESTER Apollo
Mon February 17th 2014 - WOLVERHAMPTON Civic Hall
Wed February 19th 2014 - LONDON O2 Academy Brixton
Thu February 20th 2014 - NOTTINGHAM Royal Concert Hall
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