Dokken--Erase the Slate

Dokken--Erase the Slate (1999/CMC) Rating--8.3

Reb Beach replaces George Lynch on this offering, and the band attempts to bounce back from its last release, 'Shadowlife' -- and succeeds. The distortion is not tremendously deep or heavy, but is very slashing and fresh. Overall the pace of the songs is the swiftest the band has put forth since 'Back For the Attack'.
There are still great vocal harmonies, and while there really aren't too many true standout cuts, almost every song is solid. A good ride, and great to see that the band can still put out a quality product.
The swift title tracks starts things off, and is followed by the heavy open-handed groove intro of "Change the World," which eventually backs off and smooths out.
The cutting riff base and thick vocal chorus of "Maddest Hatter" is one of the top highlights, and the heavy and methodical "Drown" keeps the groove going. "Haunted Lullabye" is similar in stature, as it is paced and strong.
A bass-thick rhythm breaks into an energetic and heavy chorus in "Voice of the Soul," and the rowdy and raw "Crazy Mary Goes Round" features a bonus treat: drummer Mick Brown on vocals!
The cover-song "One" has a great buildup, and the ballady "Who Believes" could possibly be a minor hit if handled right - it still has a heavy base, and a vocally thick chorus.
A brief, ripping little guitar-and-bass solo instrumental lurks a few seconds after the last song expires, and is a nice topper. A successful return!
TRACK LIST: Erase the Slate/Change the World/Maddest Hatter/Drown/Shattered/One/Who Believes/Voice of the Soul/ Crazy Mary Goes Round/Haunted Lullabye/In Your Honor

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