Adrian Vandenberg may not be a household name but hes contributions are very well known having led hes own band in the mid 80s with "Vandenberg" then joining "Whitesnake" during their most successful period. Vandenberg then went into hiatus after the grunge period after a long hiatus which then see him arising out of nowhere with a new band appropriately titled "Vandenberg's Moonkings". Their debut cd is a refreshing comeback mixing alot of hes blues influences and nostalgic approach.
Alongside the addition of lead vocalist Jan Hoving, Vandenberg keeps a close tie to the collaboration which most memorably established a name for himself as a musician by incorporating a compilation of evident elements from his nostalgic approach. Choice selections such as the solid opening track “Lust and Lies” and the blues-accented “Close to You” showcase a modern adaption of the classic ‘Slip of the Tongue’ sound.
“Good Thing” introduces the solid addition of gospel vocal harmonies which compliment the gritty overtones of Hoving’s performance, just as we reach the album’s leading robust power ballad. “Breathing” implements a proper use of melody and string arrangements, and shows Adrian alternating between a delicate acoustic guitar and complimentary distortion.
Later additions including the high energy “Steal Away” and the guitar oriented “Line of Fire” proudly display the chemistry between Adrian Vandenberg and Jan Hoving; neither musician can be found stepping over one another, however the duo set aside plenty of leg room for their own respective moments in the spotlight.
Following the lesser yet still enjoyable ballad “Out of Reach,” we reenter the album’s high octane atmosphere with “Feel It,” a selection which reintroduces the durable addition of vocal melodies paired with an admirable execution. While it’s fair to say each track here is standout, one of the more exemplary moments on the debut is “Leave This Town,” which emphasizes upon the veteran songwriting of the guitarist which provides this group’s namesake.
The weathered “One Step Behind” is a degree darker than the previous two ballads which found their way onto this debut, making for a refreshing change in attitude. This dynamic debut effort from Vandenberg’s MoonKings deserves a fitting conclusion, which arrives soon following the addition of the familiar sounding “Leeches” and the rock battle cry “Nothing Touches.”
Two acclaimed members from the golden era of Whitesnake once again join forces on a newly recorded take on “Sailing Ships,” which shows Adrian Vandenberg teaming up with pivotal lead vocalist David Coverdale for an athletic revisiting which closely rivals that of the original.
An authentic, modern take on classic rock is what listeners can expect find throughout the eponymous debut studio album from Vandenberg’s MoonKings. In addition to the hastily welcomed return of guitarist Adrian Vandenberg, the album is further fortified by palatable melody and superior musicianship which any established listener will be able to appreciate.
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