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LESSMANN / VOSS
Rock Is Our Religion

Atomic Fire (2022)
Rating: 8/10

German vocalists / multi-instrumentalists Claus Lessmann (ex-Bonfire) and Michael Voss (ex-Casanova / Mad Max) are no strangers to us rock fans. This talented twosome worked together in Phantom 5 and now they have returned to front this delicious hard rock opus.

Combining classic and modern rock aesthetics this is a record sure to appeal to anyone with a penchant for catchy, melodious rock tracks which are bright and breezy in their approach. A prime example of this being ‘Smoke Without A Fire’ which exudes a summery, AOR vibe without ever really crossing into anything too metallic. But it’s the chorus which digs in instantly as the rich vocals flow like golden rivers.

However, while the album is extremely upbeat and glossy there are some welcoming variances. ‘Look Around’ is anthemic and crisp, but through it runs a hardier riff and strut, and, dare I say it, a lash of funky, reggae-styled pulsating before leading to the lush, celebratory chorus. Meanwhile, ‘Slow Dance’ nods towards Queen’s mighty ‘Somebody To Love’ as it sways emotively up to its sugary chorus that drifts sweetly.

Yes, some may find the album a little too radio friendly, like a lightweight fantasy dragged from the latter part of the 80s, but if you like what is decidedly laid-back, simple and occasionally (although unintentionally) cheese-ridden lyrics then there are far worse places you could be.

Rock Is Our Religion is instantaneous and joyous. It brims with positive energy, flickers with exquisite solos and at times simmers nicely to maintain a balance of elegance, particularly with the fluffy ‘Take My Heart And Run’ with its simple bouncing piano.

‘Medicine Man’ is one of the heavier numbers with its thudding percussion and gritty vocal sneer. But despite its earthy feel, it’s a track that retains that level of ambience even when building towards its chorus, while ‘Runaway Days’ begins like a lost Donnie Vie bubblegum rock number as it swaggers pleasantly.

There is a veritable feast of tracks to consume here. ‘Stay’ features more fiery guitar work and boasts a killer melodious hook, ‘What Feels Right’ has a strong 80s sprawl, even with the piano behind the guitar work, ‘Fight For Our Love’ nods along nicely as a semi-ballad, and there’s even an excellent cover rendition of America’s ‘Sister Golden Hair’.

For me, personally, more tracks such as the steamy ‘Something Is Better Than Nothing’ with its grittier edge would have been welcomed, but the album remains a sophisticated and beneath it all, a reflective experience headed by two veterans of the melodic rock / metal scene that have produced a finely tuned collection of pleasing hard rock tunes that steer decidedly more towards the lighter end of the spectrum.

Neil Arnold

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