Rating: 9 / 10 Stars
BLACK SWAN is: Robin McAuley (vocals), Reb Beach (Guitar), Jeff Pilson (Bass), Matt Starr (Drums)
REVIEW – BLACK SWAN, comprised of vocalist Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group), guitarist Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), bassist Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, The End Machine, ex-Dokken), and drummer Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big), are back with a second album titled ‘Generation Mind’. Continuing where their impressive and well-received first album “Shake The World” left off, the quartet once again makes a forceful hard rock statement. With the whole album written and arranged by McAuley, Pilson, and Beach, and produced by Pilson, ‘Generation Mind’ reveals Black Swan to be a more coherent and concentrated band than on their debut.
Again recorded in Pilson’s home studio in Los Angeles, ‘Generation Mind’ is a remarkable display for the creative abilities of the band’s instrumentalists and McAuley’s age-defying voice. Black Swan has once again delivered something new, hard, and extremely melodic, as well as a record that is not a mash-up of the members’ past bands, but has its own distinct sound.
‘Generation Mind’ is a fantastic piece of melodic hard rock/metal from accomplished performers who surpassed all expectations on their debut by having sonically blended seamlessly and so effortlessly. Now, having created their sonic signature and becoming more in sync with one another’s compositions, they have taken the blueprint of “Shake The World” and expanded it on “Generation Mind.”
Allow your mind to wander into strange thoughts while listening to “Before the Light.” “She Hides Behind” should be blasting through your cars speakers while you cruise down the highway. “Generation Mind” is a really catchy song that will get everyone on their feet and roaring along with it. The rhythm of “Eagles Fly” captivates you with its incredible musicianship and exquisite vocals. “See You Cry” enables you to close your eyes and escape with your thoughts and emotions.
Grab your air guitars and blast off while fist pumping and headbanging to “Killer On the Loose.” “Miracle” will grab your focus with its intriguing musical journey. “How Do You Feel’s” emotional depths will have you dreaming. “Long Way Along” is a wonderful tune to enjoy when cruising down the road. The whole crowd will be moving and singing along to “Crown.” “Wicked The Day” has chugging riffs, blistering leads, thumping bass, and superb vocals. “I Will Follow” is a stunning musical trip.
‘Generation Mind’ is essential listening whether you are a fan of the members’ former bands from “back in the day” or you are totally new to the ’80s hard rock world.
