Skid Row--Subhuman Race (1995)
Rating--8.9
My Enemy--RealAudio Iron Will--RealAudio
The Tesla syndrome. The band releases solid album after solid album, but because of its lack to go commercial or due to a heavier sound, it gets shunned by MTV and radio--resulting in a very shaky foundation. This is definitely Skid Row's heaviest album, and arguably their best, yet many people weren't even aware of it when it was released. Some bonecrushing tunes, as the band's sound gets more straight-forward and less anthemic. A definite heavy hitter, and the pop-ballad '80s sounds of their debut (though still good) are just a distant memory.
Highlights include "My Enemy", "Remains to be Seen", "Frozen", "Face Against My Soul", "Medicine Jar", and "Iron Will". "Eileen" is a dark, moody masterpiece, and "Breakin' Down" is an extremely powerful and emotional song. It's the one song that could have salvaged the album in the commercial mainstream, but the label didn't do their part.
HOT CHOPS--When "Eileen" kicks in it is extremely contagious and groovy. Also, the guitar run during the chorus of of "Face Against My Soul". Solid, solid work. Finally, the overall beat and guitar work of "Iron Will". Turned up loud, this is one of the most overlooked bonecrushers of the 90's. When it goes from bass to guitar during the verse, look out...
TRACK LIST: My Enemy/Firesign/Bonehead/Beat Yourself Blind/Eileen/Remains to be Seen/Subhuman Race/Frozen/Into Another/
Face Against My Soul/Medicine Jar/Breakin' Down/Iron Will
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