New Metal Leader

I don't care what band he used to be in, calling himself Ross The Boss and the album New Metal Leader just comes off as egotistical. If this was a great album it would be forgivable, but the truth is this is merely adequate. Yes we all know Ross Friedman used to be in Manowar, but in my book that is something to overcome, not get credit for. After several years discovering there is no money in the blues/hard rock he apparently likes best, Ross is back with a supposed metal album to cash in on his name recognition.

Now, this is not a bad album, and songs like "Death And Glory" prove the guy has chops, but there is nothing here that other bands do not do better. Ross can play, and some of his leads are mouth-watering, but the production is not so hot, and the guitar sound is too smooth to be really heavy. Singer Pat Fuchs is not bad, but he doesn't have much character. I think this band would be better served by a rougher singer in the Rock'n Rolf vein, as this guy sounds lame when he tries to do tough.

There are some decent tunes on here. You won't hate this or turn it off, and there is some headbang fuel, but it's nothing to get really excited about — not as excited as Ross would like us to get anyway.