ELECTRIC MARY – The Definition Of Insanity

Every now and again you stumble across a band who you’ve never heard of sometimes it’s via a review in a magazine or online or from a word of mouth recommendation. During a recent Metal Express Radio interview with tennis legend Pat Cash, he waxed lyrical about this hot new act from Australia “that would blow yer balls off!!” How could you fail to follow up such a recommendation?

After getting in touch with the band it wasn’t long before a package arrived from Down Under in the form of the 5 track The Definition of Insanity E.P. Pat Cash certainly wasn’t wrong with this one. After a furious volley of drums “No One Does It Better Than Me” blasts forth from the speakers with some powerful riffing and rapid fire vocals from Rusty, a fine statement of intent to open their recording account.

Their name is based on former Electric Ladyland studio manager Mary Campbell, who helped inspire the band’s vision of Rock ‘n’ Roll greatness during a tour of the fabled studios and that influence has certainly rubbed off here.

With a sound hewn from the Classic Rock era of the 70s and brought bang up to date with a gritty, hard edged production, Electric Mary shares the same roots as the likes of The Black Crowes, Tesla, Silvertide and The Answer. This is honest, down to earth Rock ‘n’ Roll with attitude.

“Let Me Out” struts along with a memorable riff backed by a tight assed groove. Vocalist Rusty certainly possesses the pipes to suit this material, a strong Blues tinged, voice with a gravely cutting edge.

The groove quota cranks ever higher with “One In A Million”, another pile driver of a riff with swagger and some great screaming wah from lead guitarist Irwin. “Luv Me” again features a driving Led Zep-esq inspired groove-riff and an energetic Robert Plant like display from Rusty.

Bringing this excellent collection to a much too early end is “One Foot In The Grave” , a classic foot to the floor Rocker done as only our Aussie friends can – fast, heads-down, fist pumping kick ass Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Discovering new music can come from the unlikeliest places but it is always a pleasure when you stumble across a gem like Electric Mary. If this is their first E.P, just wait until their debut album hits the streets. Now that will be something worth waiting for and let’s hope it’s coming soon.