Thursday, April 21, 2022

Black Swan – Generation Mind (Frontiers)



This is a perfect melodic hard rock record.  Great listen, filled high energy performance and catchy songs.  Generation Mind is a second album from Black Swan.  A supergroup put together by vocalist, Robin McAuley, guitarist, Reb Beach, bassist, Jeff Pilson, and drummer, Matt Starr.  All of those players proved themselves repeatedly on the hard rock circuit, only to deliver another stunning record.

Black Swan seemed like another one-off project, but it’s not the case here.  They came back for another one, and their sophomore effort blows away the debut album.  One great track follows another, not a filler in sight.  You want to play this CD as soon as it finishes.  Strong and memorable melodies all over the place.

Vocalist, Robin McAuley, shines here.  The man is certainly getting better with age.  His voice was always strong and melodic, but he’s getting even more flexible with how he is applying himself.  McAuley is simply singing even better than he ever did before.  This was already noticeable during his time with Michael Schenker Fest, but here we get a larger dose of his vocals.

All twelve tracks on Generation Mind are extremely melodic and memorable.  The album does have that 80s cool vibe.  The band delivers an excellent instrumental performance, and the production is beautifully handled by Jeff Pilson.  Reb Beach is incredible.  His tone and riffing absolutely superb.  Strong effort from every possible angle.

Black Swan is a melodic heaven for the hard rock lovers.  Let’s hope they can take this album on the road, and properly promote it.  Considering that each member of this band has other commitments we may be asking for a lot, but hell, we deserve it!  Generation Mind is as perfect as it gets!

Mark Kadzielawa

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