Tesla - ‘Shock’ (Review)


Tesla - ‘Shock’
(UMC)

Out Now

Sacramento veterans Tesla release one of their finest albums, but only if you’re a fan of Def Leppard!

If you, dear reader, are sitting at home gagging for a new album from Def Leppard, may I make this suggestion? Take yourself down to your local music emporium or online store and throw your cash at the retailer with these words - “Please may i have a copy of “Shock” by Tesla?”

Ah, but does it REALLY sound like Def Leppard, or are you just saying that? Okay, if Tesla had delivered this album anonymously to Leppard’s management or record label, the Leppard boys would’ve received a call congratulating them on delivering yet another fine album!

The reason for the Tesla/Leppard love-in becomes crystal clear when you hear that “Shock” was co-written and produced by Def Leppard guitarist and six pack shaker Phil Collen. It’s not even just a wee bit like Def Leppard, right from the first track “You Won’t Take Me Alive” there’s that instantly recognisable Leppard guitar and drum sound with a slightly grittier Joe Elliot on vocals. I had to check my fruit based music player to make sure i hadn’t accidentally put on a Leppard demo - yes it’s THAT close!

I’m going to show my age here and let you know i have Tesla’s first album - the VERY good “Mechanical Resonance” which was released way back in 1986. They’ve always been a solid melodic rock band and it looks like they’ve sold their soul for commercial gain! “California Summer Song” is a light ballad that drags us back to the classic Tesla sound and  with “The Mission” and “Tied To The Tracks” we are firmly back on planet Tesla.



Overall, “Shock” is a WONDERFUL album, it’s as simple as that. Obviously its a bonus if you’re a Def Leppard fan as well as a Tesla fan, then you may never have to play another album again!

Rating: 8/10 (Robert Adams) 

‘Shock’ is available now on the following formats:CD, Digital, Black Vinyl, Limited Edition Translucent Blue Vinyl

Shock Track List:
You Won’t Take Me Alive
Taste Like
We Can Rule The World
Shock
Love Is A Fire
California Summer Song
Forever Loving You
Tied To The Tracks
Afterlife
I Want Everything
Comfort Zone

Tesla Are:
Brian Wheat - Bass, keys, piano, backing vocals
Frank Hannon - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Jeff Keith - Vocals
Troy Luccketta - drums
Dave Rude - Guitar

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