Tesla - Into the Now (2004/Sanctuary)
Rating - 8.7

Tesla returns to the studio after a 10 year hiatus, and features the same five man lineup as during their glory days (with Skeoch solidly back in the fold). The distortion, vocals, and overall sound are very consistent with 1994's 'Bust a Nut'; this disc could have been released in '95 or '96 and fit right in line. The songwriting is a mix between 'BAN' and 'Psychotic Supper,' as there are a good number of light/heavy blended tracks. There aren't many real fast-paced songs as was the case in the past (ala "Comin' at you Live," "Edison's Medicine," etc.), but 'Into the Now' is still a very "breathing" release -- Tesla's songwriting and catchiness remains at the top of the hard rock/metal world.
The opening title track is a very competent start, and the chugging "Look @ Me" has a strong pre-chorus. The light/heavy mix of "What a Shame" features a great chorus (one of the band's top talents), and has an intoxicating flow.
Some nasty grinding shows up in "Got No Glory," "Mighty Mouse" has a thick kick-in, "Miles Away" has some heavy sections, and "Recognize" is in the band's classic vein. Another of those excellent, melodic choruses shows up within "Words Can't Explain," and two semi-typical Tesla ballads are "Caught in a Dream" and "Come to Me," with the latter having a heavier chorus.
In all, this is a very strong release. While the band isn't as ripping and aggressive as on their first few releases, their trueness to both melody and distortion has remained intact. Their longtime fans won't be disappointed.

TRACK LIST:

  1. Into the Now
  2. Look @ Me
  3. What a Shame
  4. Heaven Nine Eleven
  5. Words Can't Explain
  6. Caught in a Dream
  7. Miles Away
  8. Mighty Mouse
  9. Got No Glory
  10. Come to Me
  11. Recognize
  12. Only You

Back to Discography