UNCLE TOM

Uncle Tom is a solid punk rock band that could get a crowd pumped up nicely in the right club, but there is far too little on this cd to attract people that are looking for something fresh and new. "I'm In Love With My Gun" starts off with a powerful heavy electric intro, then breaks off for a verse with acoustic guitar and vocals, coming back again with the powerful electric structure "Out a This World" has a punk/metal intensity that plays well with the vocal style. The rhythm section shines on "Small Man," accentuating the multiple changes that are an intricate part of the song's structure. When "Dancin' in a Minefield" kicks off one can't help but be reminded of the era when Ted Nugent's "Cat Scratch Fever" was the craze. The guitar phrases are what gives this tune that particular Ted Nugent styling, as well as the lead guitar solo. "That Woman Is Mine" is the best tune on the album because it is the most original piece. The tempo is neither fast or slow, just a middle of the road groove. It has a melody line that can be followed and the guitar adds some nuances that accentuate the vocals, which are very well done. "Confused" goes back to the punk rock groove, with a heavy kick drum and power chord guitar track. Musicians Uncle Tom have talent, but they need to cut the umbilical "chord" that links them to their mentors and cut to a unique style or remain another of the club circuit cover bands. In the late '70s and early '80s Uncle Tom would have had a sought after sound, but as music has moved into the new millennium very few are ready to relive that era so soon. For those who long for more of The Sex Pistols, Uncle Tom is behind the wheel to take you on that journey with the acquisition of their debut self-titled CD.