The psychedelic pop/rock band that started out in 1984 and is now fronted by founder member and bassist Chip Z’Nuff, have a new release entitled ‘Finer Than Sin’. I can’t believe this is the 17th studio album, as the debut self titled LP must still be a prized possession on everyone’s shelves. If you have been on the road these last few weeks, you may have caught Enuff Z Nuff with Skid Row, or on their current ‘EU/UK Glam Slam’ headline tour. They still produce that mix of Beatle inspired bubblegum and sultry rock, but with the equally flamboyant guitarists Tory Stoffregen and Birmingham born Tony Fennell on board, they hit you with deeper grooves and heavier jamming. Last year the album ‘Hardrock Nite’ was a dedication to the Fab Four, with some amazing covers, it’s no secret Chip is a massive fan, so during live shows we have heard ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ and ‘Eleanor Rigby’ among others. However, it’s time to head back to original blends for ‘Finer Than Sin’ and with only the teaser ‘Catastrophe’ being aired on tour so far, I couldn’t wait to hear the rest.
‘Soundcheck’ is a lot more than just that, it’s an inventive introduction to the album. Spiralling guitar and a punchy rhythm echo with vibrancy and although its life is short at 2.44 minutes, it has a superb, refined feel to it. The single ‘Catastrophe’ is a warm balance of Chip’s evocative vocals and harmonies from the rest of the band. It begins with billowy mellowness and then the chorus opens it up into a fully colourful classic. Sumptuous guitar and pristine overlying lyrics that are in true ‘Enuff’ fashion. ’Steal The Light’ is absolutely out of this world, I’ve been playing it over and over, it’s such an addictive song. There’s a velvety smoothness of yet another blinding chorus, with a phenomenal kick that tumbles and turns, leading you into submission, love it.
The increase in speed for ‘Lost And Out Of Control’ is on a different level. Demanding chords that move along the frets, with no time to lose and the rapid swell of drums from Dan Hill are unabating and intense throughout. Following on it’s a complete about-face for ‘Intoxicated’, a misty dream of a track with subtle tones and singalong lyrics. Floating on air harmonies and a gentle tempo are provided with effortless majesty. You can sense the darker skies and thudding raindrops on ‘Hurricane’ as the song manages to capture the aura of an approaching tempest. Although menacing and dramatic, it caresses and charms, offsetting any melancholy visions. ’Trampoline’ reminds me of those pop hits from the 70’s, it has that kind of jauntiness, although that’s quickly ironed away, with more of those tender and affectionate vocals. Rising with a guitar riff that launches it to the heavens, ’Temporarily Disconnected’ is another with a hook that sticks to your inner self. This is a top notch melody and so pleasing on the ear. Again, the band demonstrate their expertise, throwing out a composition, without any difficulty and naturally, it’s flawless. As the end of the album is in sight there’s time for some unadulterated fun and we hear a cover of the Sex Pistols ’God Save The Queen’. It’s a fine example and rolls off perfectly. Lastly a short ‘Reprise’ of the first track, with the guitars wailing, offers a suitable coda.
Photo credit – Alex Peace
‘Finer Than Sin’ it surely is, this album rocks so much, it’s hard not to jump around, distracting everyone in the near vicinity. Unquestionably, a contender for album of the year for me.
‘Finer Than Sin’ it surely is, this album rocks so much’
Highlights – Catastrophe, Steal The Light, Intoxicated, Temporarily Disconnected.
Tracklisting – Sound Check. Catastrophe. Steal The Light. Lost And Out Of Control. Intoxicated. Hurricane. Trampoline. Temporarily Disconnected. God Save The Queen. Reprise
LINE-UP: Chip Z’nuff – Bass. Tory Stoffregen – Guitars. Tony Fennell – Guitars. Dan Hill – Drums
Currently on their EU/UK Glam Slam Tour, there is still time to catch ‘Enuff Z Nuff’ live, see social pages below for details.
Buy or Stream ‘Finer Than Sin’ at https://orcd.co/finerthansin
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