LYNCH MOB – SMOKE AND MIRRORS (FRONTIERS)
Written by Stephen Wilkinson   
When the core of a good band (i.e. one of, if not THE principle songwriter(s) leaves) is fractured, there’s only so long one or the other members can drag the name around. Ex-Dokken guitarist George Lynch has been guilty of this for quite a while. Sure, everyone’s got to make a living. George has had other singers in the lead vocal slot after original vocalist Oni Logan departed nearly two decades ago after the debut of 1990’s ‘Wicked Sensation.’ But a name typically invokes what people expect, especially when it carved its own niche.

Here in 2009 Oni has reunited with George on record. There’s a new rhythm section in ex-Whitesnake bassist Marco Mendoza and drummer Scott Coogan. The big question on everyone’s mind is whether this incarnation is worthwhile - and do Oni and George do justice to the Lynch Mob name? The answer is quite simply Y-E-S. In many ways this album sounds as though it picks up where ‘Wicked’ left off, yet it’s also fresh and drips with mojo, soul and some of Lynch’s tastiest leads in many years. Album opener “21st Century Man” is a throwback of sorts to “River Of Love” from the band’s “heyday” if you will, yet it just lays it down and sets the tone for the record. The title track opens with an acoustic swampy vibe before the chorus kicks in with velvety, soulful vocals and a solid foundation.

This tune alone showcases what has been missing for so long: mojo and soul. Oni simply has it. Vocally, he is still on top of his game. “My Kind Of Healer” is a moody rocker that has a great groove. The tune has a lengthy trail out that showcases some almost Jeff Beck-like noodling from Lynch and a groovy bass line from Mendoza that is almost hypnotizing. “Where Do You Sleep At Night” is a groove-ladden rocker that is full of feel. There are so many good songs on this album, it’s hard to find anything “weak” although naturally some songs are better than others. The album certainly has a nice, consistent flow to it. Nice production and mix overall, this is a top notch effort. You would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t check this one out. No offense to any past members or vocalists, but THIS is Lynch Mob. Bottom line, if you are a fan of the Wicked Sensation album and what Oni and George created nearly 20 years ago, you’d have to be deaf to not appreciate what they’ve cooked up for 2009. This album simply smokes! – Stephen Wilkinson
 
Rockzone Records, 2155 E. University #104, Tempe, AZ 85281 / 480-964-6301 www.rockzonerecords.com /
www.myspace.com/rockonerecords
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