BlackMamba are a Classic Rock band from North West England. The band also label themselves as Hard Rock, which is somewhat questionable, although their inspirations include the likes of Aerosmith, Iron Maiden and Guns ‘n’ Roses. This, their very first EP, was released on the 28th of January last year.
The band have a very speedy, old school, 1980s-driven sound from the get go with ‘Give Me Poison’ which is anthemic despite it being amateur. Yet the track does not quite have the arena filling potential of their inspirations but is a very positive foundation for the future. ‘Refuse To Lose’ is not repetitive as such, but very cyclic and not quite as hard-hitting all the way through as it could be, as the band almost appear to literally lose momentum towards the end of the track. Black Mamba are almost like a good ‘80s tribute band, in the same effective style Jack Black utilises for his role in the 2003 film ‘School of Rock’. Despite this, the second song is composed of a more metal vibe, with speedy guitaring and great drumming via the symbol.
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| The album artwork for Black Mamba's Self Titled EP |
The band have a very speedy, old school, 1980s-driven sound from the get go with ‘Give Me Poison’ which is anthemic despite it being amateur. Yet the track does not quite have the arena filling potential of their inspirations but is a very positive foundation for the future. ‘Refuse To Lose’ is not repetitive as such, but very cyclic and not quite as hard-hitting all the way through as it could be, as the band almost appear to literally lose momentum towards the end of the track. Black Mamba are almost like a good ‘80s tribute band, in the same effective style Jack Black utilises for his role in the 2003 film ‘School of Rock’. Despite this, the second song is composed of a more metal vibe, with speedy guitaring and great drumming via the symbol.
However, lyrically, especially in ‘Losin’ My Mind’, BlackMamba should not be afraid to reach a deeper emotional level, as well as the 80s association with endless drinking and drug consumption; ‘this bottles your only friend.’ These somewhat limp and white-washed lyrics eradicate the potential the band may have for a wider fan base who truly appreciate them as a band in a sentimental sense. Although the guitar solo is nothing short of spectacular but one cannot help but think of the band as wannabe punks of an era well before their time or comprehension Steel Panther are mickey takers of the very genre and period they are performing through and are very sure of their sound and style. Even in final track ‘Tooth Ache’, however melodic the song appears, assisted by the gripping, intense bass, its lyrics of ‘What doesn’t kill me will make me stronger.’ let them down severely once more.
BlackMamba has a good foundation of great instrumentation and vocals, but their appearance and overall flair leave a lot to be desired.
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| BlackMamba have yet to nail their image... |
BlackMamba has a good foundation of great instrumentation and vocals, but their appearance and overall flair leave a lot to be desired.
2/5
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