Kicking & Screaming (Special Edition)

Sebastian Bach proves that his style of hard rock and heavy metal isn’t dead as long as he’s still doing it. Bearing down, Bach creates a well-crafted collection of hard-edged tunes featuring his trademark yowl and underrated way with a melody. Guitarist Nick Sterling is an important ingredient here, adding his touch to “My Own Worst Enemy” and shaking the rafters for the title track. Legendary hard rock guitarist and former Marilyn Manson member John 5 assists with the impeccable “Tunnelvision,” a tune that strikes close to Bach’s own heart. There’s the Aerosmith-like boogie of “Dance on Your Grave,” convincing power ballads, full-out rockers like “As Long As I Got the Music,” and Sterling’s note-perfect “I’m Alive.” There are big riffs throughout the album. “Dirty Power” chews up the scenery, while “Live the Life” chases the scales up and down with ferocity while Bach settles into the driver’s seat with his usual assurance. It’s the great material that makes the difference here. The special edition includes the satisfyingly down-home bonus track “Ain’t There Yet.”