New Music Review: MOTÖRHEAD ‘Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC

MOTÖRHEAD ‘Bad Magic SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC - Cover Photo

Rating: 9.5 / 10 Stars

Artist: MOTÖRHEAD
Album: Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC (2023)
Album Personnel: Lemmy Kilmister (vocals, bass), Phil Campbell (guitars), and Mikkey Dee (drums)

Producer: Cameron Webb
Label: Silver Lining Music

REVIEW – Motörhead, the iconic British rock band known for their relentless energy and raw power, unleashed their 22nd studio album, “Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC,” in 2015. This record not only cemented their status as one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history but also showcased their unwavering commitment to their signature sound. “Bad Magic” exemplifies everything that made Motörhead legendary, delivering a collection of blistering tracks filled with aggression, gritty lyrics, and thunderous riffs. From its impactful opening track to its electrifying cover, the album serves as a fierce testament to the band’s enduring legacy.

Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC receives a bonus-packed update, including two previously unreleased tracks “Bullet in Your Brain” and “Greedy Bastards” from those ferocious sessions, as well as a snarling, fangs-out live performance from that subsequent tour at Japan’s massive Mt Fuji Festival in 2015.

The album kicks off with “Victory or Die,” a statement of intent that encapsulates the essence of Motörhead. The track bursts out of the gate with a high-energy assault, driven by Mikkey Dee’s pounding drums and Phil Campbell’s fierce guitar riffs. Lemmy Kilmister’s distinct vocals soar above the cacophony, delivering defiant lyrics that rally listeners to join the fight. “Victory or Die” sets the stage for the album’s unrelenting power and serves as a powerful opening track.

“Thunder & Lightning” follows suit, unleashing a barrage of relentless energy. The song races forward with breakneck speed, propelled by the thunderous rhythm section. Phil Campbell’s guitar work shines as he weaves intricate melodies into the sonic tapestry. Lemmy’s raspy vocals cut through the dense instrumentation, delivering punchy lyrics that demand attention. “Thunder & Lightning” is a prime example of Motörhead’s ability to create intense, high-octane rock ‘n’ roll.

Slowing down the tempo, “Fire Storm Hotel” provides a brief respite without sacrificing the album’s ferocity. The track showcases Motörhead’s versatility as they delve into bluesy undertones and groove-laden riffs. Lemmy’s vocals carry a sense of swagger and grit, effortlessly riding the wave of the infectious rhythm. “Fire Storm Hotel” adds depth to the album, demonstrating the band’s ability to create diverse and captivating compositions.

“Shoot Out All of Your Lights” catapults the album back into overdrive with its relentless pace and aggressive guitar riffs. The track is an unapologetic assault on the senses, fueled by the band’s signature power and attitude. Lemmy’s lyrics drip with rebellion and defiance, resonating with the band’s legions of fans. “Shoot Out All of Your Lights” captures the essence of Motörhead’s unyielding spirit and serves as a standout track on the album.

“The Devil” takes a darker turn, showcasing Motörhead’s ability to create a brooding atmosphere. The song is steeped in a menacing aura, driven by heavy guitar riffs and thunderous drums. Lemmy’s vocals exude a haunting quality as he delves into themes of temptation and personal demons. “The Devil” unveils a different side of Motörhead, one that explores introspection and adds depth to the album’s sonic palette.

“Electricity” jolts the listener back to life with its infectious energy and high-voltage intensity. The track crackles with raw power, propelled by a relentless rhythm section. Phil Campbell’s guitar work shines as he delivers scorching solos, while Lemmy’s commanding vocals provide an electrifying presence. “Electricity” captures the essence of Motörhead’s unbridled energy and exemplifies their ability to create anthemic rockers.

With its menacing guitar intro, “Evil Eye” plunges the listener into a maelstrom of aggression. The song’s distorted riffs and pummeling rhythm section create an atmosphere of pure chaos. Lemmy’s snarling vocals cut through the sonic assault, delivering lyrics that embody the band’s unrelenting spirit. “Evil Eye” is a testament to Motörhead’s ability to craft tracks that leave an indelible mark on the listener.

“Teach Them How to Bleed” serves as a confrontational anthem, tackling social issues head-on. The track combines ferocious guitar work with biting lyrics, delivering a powerful call to action. Lemmy’s vocals seethe with intensity as he urges listeners to stand up against injustice. The song’s instrumentation and lyrical content showcase Motörhead’s willingness to use their music as a platform for provocation and change.

“Till the End” slows the tempo down, offering a poignant and introspective ballad. Lemmy’s raspy vocals carry a sense of vulnerability and reflection, allowing listeners to connect with the band on a deeper level. The melodic guitar work adds an emotional dimension to the track, highlighting Motörhead’s ability to create poignant compositions amidst the album’s aggression.

Returning to their unapologetic intensity, “Tell Me Who to Kill” blazes through with ferocious energy. The track delivers a relentless assault of heavy riffs and thunderous drums, leaving no room for respite. Lemmy’s lyrics embody a defiant rebellion, underscoring the band’s fearless attitude. “Tell Me Who to Kill” serves as a testament to Motörhead’s mastery of crafting relentless, high-impact rock anthems.

“Choking on Your Screams” erupts with a thunderous drum intro, immediately grabbing the listener’s attention. The song charges forward with unbridled force, driven by blistering guitar riffs and Lemmy’s commanding vocals. The track’s relentless energy and aggressive delivery make it an unapologetic highlight of the album.

“When the Sky Comes Looking for You” serves as a fitting climax to the album. The track combines Motörhead’s trademark ferocity with intricate guitar work and thunderous drumming. Lemmy’s commanding presence and unwavering vocals embody the band’s unrelenting spirit, leaving no doubt that Motörhead’s legacy will endure. The song is a testament to their enduring mastery and serves as a potent reminder of their unrivaled impact in the realm of heavy metal.

Motörhead pays homage to a legendary rock band with their rendition of The Rolling Stones’ classic, while infusing their own fierce energy. The band’s unique sound breathes new life into the track, injecting it with their trademark aggression and power. Lemmy’s vocals lend a gritty edge to the iconic lyrics, making it a fitting conclusion to an album that showcases Motörhead’s unwavering spirit.

Motörhead opened their 2015 Mt. Fuji Rock Festival set with the anthemic “We Are Motörhead,” setting the tone for an electrifying live experience. The track bursts forth with unrelenting energy, driven by Mikkey Dee’s thunderous drumming and Phil Campbell’s fiery guitar work. Lemmy’s gravelly vocals command attention, capturing the essence of the band’s defiant spirit. “We Are Motörhead” serves as a powerful introduction to the album, instantly immersing listeners in the band’s signature sound.

“Damage Case” follows with its hard-hitting, high-energy onslaught. The track’s fierce guitar riffs and relentless rhythm section ignite the crowd, creating an atmosphere of pure chaos. Lemmy’s iconic vocals cut through the sonic assault, delivering the song’s biting lyrics with a sense of urgency. “Damage Case” is a prime example of Motörhead’s ability to create fierce and unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll anthems.

“Stay Clean” continues the relentless onslaught, propelled by its driving rhythm and infectious guitar hooks. The track showcases the band’s impeccable musicianship, with each instrument shining through in perfect harmony. Lemmy’s vocals exude power and authority, leaving no doubt that Motörhead means business. “Stay Clean” serves as a testament to the band’s unwavering commitment to their gritty and unapologetic sound.

“Metropolis” takes the listener on a wild ride with its infectious groove and pounding rhythm. The track encapsulates Motörhead’s ability to create headbanging, foot-stomping rock ‘n’ roll. Phil Campbell’s blistering guitar solos soar above the dense instrumentation, while Lemmy’s vocals inject the song with a raw and primal energy. “Metropolis” is a standout track that captivates with its infectious energy.

“Over the Top” charges forward with unyielding force, delivering a sonic assault that leaves no room for respite. The track is a showcase of Motörhead’s unapologetic intensity, with the band firing on all cylinders. The thunderous drumming, powerful guitar riffs, and Lemmy’s commanding vocals combine to create an irresistible surge of energy. “Over the Top” is a thrilling highlight that exemplifies the band’s raw power.

“String Theory” takes a slight departure from the relentless pace, offering a moment of respite and showcasing the band’s musical versatility. The track features a bluesy, melodic intro that gradually builds into a storm of heavy riffs and thunderous drums. Lemmy’s vocals carry a sense of emotion and vulnerability, adding depth to the song. “String Theory” is a dynamic and captivating interlude in the album’s high-octane journey.

“The Chase is Better Than the Catch” picks up the pace once again, delivering an adrenaline-fueled rush. The track’s infectious groove and relentless guitar riffs create an atmosphere of pure rock ‘n’ roll exhilaration. Lemmy’s vocals brim with attitude and swagger, perfectly complementing the driving rhythm section. “The Chase is Better Than the Catch” is a crowd-pleasing moment that showcases the band’s ability to captivate and energize an audience.

“Rock It” continues the onslaught with its high-energy assault. The track charges forward with blistering guitar work and powerful drumming, creating a frenetic pace that is impossible to resist. Lemmy’s vocals exude passion and intensity, commanding attention with every word. “Rock It” exemplifies Motörhead’s ability to create fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled rock anthems that leave a lasting impact.

“Lost Woman Blues” slows the tempo down, offering a moment of reflection amidst the album’s relentless energy. The track’s bluesy undertones and soulful guitar work create an atmosphere of introspection. Lemmy’s vocals carry a sense of longing and melancholy, revealing the band’s ability to evoke emotion. “Lost Woman Blues” adds depth and diversity to the live recording, showcasing Motörhead’s musical range.

“Doctor Rock” injects a dose of pure adrenaline back into the album with its ferocious energy and infectious hooks. The track charges forward with unrelenting power, driven by Lemmy’s commanding vocals and the band’s tight musicianship. The thunderous rhythm section and scorching guitar solos make “Doctor Rock” a standout moment that ignites the crowd.

“Just ‘Cos You Got the Power” delivers a punch with its relentless pace and fierce attitude. The track’s driving rhythm and aggressive guitar riffs create an aura of defiance, perfectly complementing Lemmy’s gritty vocals. The song’s lyrics carry a sense of rebellion, urging listeners to challenge authority. “Just ‘Cos You Got the Power” exemplifies Motörhead’s ability to create music that empowers and inspires.

“Going to Brazil” transports the listener to a frenzied atmosphere of excitement and high energy. The track’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Lemmy’s vocals exude a sense of joy and exhilaration, perfectly capturing the spirit of the live performance. “Going to Brazil” is a lively and uplifting track that showcases the band’s ability to create infectious party anthems.

“Ace of Spades” unleashes a juggernaut of rock ‘n’ roll power. The track’s iconic opening riff sends the crowd into a frenzy, setting the stage for a blistering performance. Lemmy’s distinctive vocals, combined with the thunderous rhythm section and searing guitar solos, elevate the song to an anthem of pure rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. “Ace of Spades” is the epitome of Motörhead’s iconic sound and stands as a testament to their timeless impact on the genre.

“Overkill” concludes the album with an explosive display of Motörhead’s energy and musicianship. The track’s relentless speed and aggression captivate the listener from start to finish. Mikkey Dee’s thunderous drumming provides a solid foundation, while Phil Campbell’s blistering guitar solos add a touch of virtuosity. Lemmy’s vocals resonate with power and urgency, making “Overkill” a fitting end to an electrifying live recording.

Motörhead’s “Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC” is a powerhouse of an album that showcases the band’s enduring spirit and their ability to consistently deliver hard-hitting, no-frills rock ‘n’ roll. From Lemmy’s iconic vocals to the blistering guitar work and thunderous drumming, the chemistry between the band members is undeniable. Each track on the album brims with energy, attitude, and a raw intensity that fans have come to expect from Motörhead. While some tracks may stand out more than others, the overall experience is a non-stop adrenaline rush that embodies the essence of the band. “Bad Magic: SERIOUSLY BAD MAGIC” is a testament to Motörhead’s legacy and a must-listen for fans of hard rock and heavy metal.