This particular band needs no introduction since they are one of the founding fathers of American hard rock. I couldn’t tell about the stir they have caused over the European audiences, however as far as Greece fans are concerned it should prove below average. No matter what, at these times of globalization and real time information out of unlimited sources from every corner of the planet, if someone wants to get acquainted with the history and influence of Y&T during the years, it is easy to search about. Coming to the album, “Facemelter” is the claifornia based rockers first work after thirteen years and the good news is that it will make you happy if you are into tough but sentimental hard rock, just the way Dave Meniketti and his gang do it for so long.  

Reunions and re-activations for writing new material have rarely shown a convincing quality. It’s always good to have releases of hit collections or maybe add up a new song here and there, but most of the bands seemed to try releases of dubious intents and with controversial results, at best. Fortunately, Y&T, keep the badge up high, presenting an album that offers nice vibes, better than what even their die-hard fans would expect. Dave Meniketti leads this effort presenting his bluesy voice at its best, while still playing some inspiring guitars throughout, aided by a perfect lineup, between them the Y&T founding member Phil Kennemore (together since 1974!)

“Facemelter” contains all that you would wish for. Dynamic American Rock songs, perfect for a night out, more melodic 4/4 blues rock cuts, two ballads that avoid being cheesy and mellow and in total, over an hour of original music that only bands like Y&T can produce. Just to remind all of you that albums like “Meanstreak”, “Black Tiger” and “Earthshaker” made Y&T known all over the world during the early 80s and the new “Facemelter” being closer to those than the slightly more sleaze days of the band.

I am not sure whether “Facemelter” has the potential or the thermal power to melt your face, you need to be quite a die-hard fan to get this, however, even if during these difficult years for commercial music, some other releases seem more welcoming, if you keep a place in your heart for the Y&T riffs and Meniketti’s melodies, it will not disappoint. Henceforth, everything is possible…