WIG WAM Non Stop Rock 'N' Roll

4,5
Wig Wam made a big hit thanks to representing Sweden at 2005's Eurovision Song Contest and they have been a hit with rock fans ever since. Looking like a bunch of glam rock clad builders, their past albums have been full of sing-a-long glam rock/metal bringing to mind the Sweet and 70's Kiss. Now the band - vocalist Åge Sten (Glam) Nilsen vocals, guitarist Trond (Teeny) Holter, bassist Bernt (Flash) Jansen and drummer Øystein (Sporty) Andersen - are back with a new album and their first for Frontiers. What a great way to start 2010!

This album sees the OTT glam rock sound toned down and a more melodic hard rock sound. But fear not, 'Don't Taste It' and the title track could easily have come of their previous albums. Hold onto your trousers as 'Still I am Burning' is a certifable hard rock anthem and one made for airplay or even Eurovision. The chorus is simply superb. 'C'mon Everybody' has riffs you could grate cheese on and is another fine hard rock tune, complete with a Sweet approved gang chorus.

They have also raised the game on their ballads as 'Man In The Moon' shows. The piano/string backing works well with the heartfelt vocal and harmony chourus. 'Chasing Rainbows' is another big production number and features a children's choir on the outro. Luckily they pull this off and don't get too twee.

If you've yet to try this band grab this album pronto. Existing fans may miss some of ther band's more blantant galm rock party anthems but give it a few spins and you can see that Wig Wam have simply upped their game. A very early contender many folks 'Best Of' 2010 lists.

****½

Review by Jason Ritchie, Get Ready To ROCK 23.12.2009
www.getreadytorock.com