SILVER DIRT – Demo 2005

Swiss band Silver Dirt bets on raw and straight Rock ’n’ Roll as the formula for their music. Being formed by members of the Led Zeppelin tribute band Zoso, their sound has elements from Led Zeppelin, but also The Ramones, AC/DC, The Rolling Stones, Iggy Pop, and all of the Rock greats from 1965 to 1980.

This demo, although not being well-produced (and who said demos are supposed to sound good?) shows off the band’s potential, with 5 catchy, rocking songs recorded from their 8-song repertoire.

The first track, “City Prowler,” has a fast-paced rocking attitude. The song recalls influences from The Ramones, sounding somewhere in-between Bubble Gum Punk Rock and traditional 70’s Rock.

“Faded Star” has more of a Hard Rock feel, but still with that 70’s appeal. Not as fast as “City Prowler,” the song shows off the great rhythm section of Silver Dirt with Silver Gregg’s drums and Dirty Seb’s bass walking tightly together. The backing vocals, however, sound a little out of tune sometimes.

In almost a “road” mood, the next track, “Zero Gravity,” is one of those songs you would most likely want to hear while driving. It’s an invitation to adrenalin and made of pure Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Being a crossover between 70’s rock bands such as Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, “Angel With Silver Wings” is the longest track in the demo. Those familiar with earlier Judas Priest albums will find this one quite familiar. Silver Steff’s vocals in this one sounds almost Soundgarden-like, but with a nice touch of aggressiveness. This is the best song on the record.

“Go! She Said” is back to The Ramones / Hard Rock crossover, sounding a bit similar to Poison in both the vocal and guitar work.

With its roots more in the Rock ‘n’ Roll field than in Heavy Metal, Silver Dirt delivers a raw but good sound, with nicely written songs. More harmonic variety would be good, as the songs can get somewhat boring after too much time with the same guitar riff. Look forward, though, for their next release if you’re into real Rock ‘n’ Roll.