Review | The New Roses – Attracted To Danger

Napalm Records

To get right to the point, the latest [6th] album ‘Attracted To Danger’ of The New Roses is packed with wonderfully crafted radio friendly rock songs.

Meanwhile, this German band has managed to deliver a very American-sounding record. And that is meant as a very big compliment. Singer/Guitarist Timmy Rough seems to be getting a more lived-in voice by the year. That, combined with the new songs, makes this new disc simply delightful to listen to.

The New Roses have no intention of reinventing the rock and roll wheel, what they do strive for is to write and record tasty timeless songs. And they are more than successful at that. In terms of style, they continue to embroider on their previous 5 discs and that is absolutely fine, because they laid the foundation for this band. No nonsense, hard work and a lot of live playing.

BON JOVI MEETS BRYAN ADAMS

I would describe the music, if I had to pigeonhole it, to be a rougher version of Bon Jovi at the time of their ‘These Days’ album. Maybe even somewhat Bryan Adams. The up-tempo songs like ,,Attracted To Danger” or ,,Whiskey In The Backseat” are interspersed with slower songs like the duet ,,Hold Me Up” feat. Gill Montgomery, which could also have been on a country album.

The rhythm guitars are tasteful and in service of the songs. Great guitar solos and basically everything is about the songs and not about the ego of the individual musicians. And I love that and I think this is what makes this band so exceptional. The harmony vocals are also an asset this band has. The album is laced with them. Beautiful catchy polyphonic choruses, without exaggerating.

In addition, ‘Attracted To Danger’ is beautifully produced and captures what the band stands for live as well. And that is where they are at their best, popping on a stage in front of an enthusiastic audience.

THE NEW ROSES – THE CONCLUSION

The only downside I personally find is the Neil Young cover ,,Rockin’ In The Free World”. Although that song captures the essence of The New Roses it has already been covered by so many bands that I would have preferred to hear a The New Roses original instead of this cover rendition. But on the other hand, maybe there are still people who don’t know the song yet. But I doubt that personally.

This is an album that a rock lover can not avoid. Especially if you like radio friendly rock and roll.
Starting mid-October, The New Roses will be crisscrossing Europe to give the new disc a live boost. So check their website to see if they are playing near you. Because believe me, a performance by The New Roses is worth seeing, hearing and experiencing. CU on tour guys.

Release date: 4 October 2024