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The Vibrators And Chris Spedding - Mars Casino Review by Gary Hill This new set from The Vibrators includes Chris Spedding on guitar. I bet you get that from the cover and title, right? This has a solid punk vibe with a real DIY element to it. There are plenty of good songs and a couple real exceptional cuts. It does have a bit of a tendency toward feeling monolithic, though. This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2021 Volume 1. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2021.

Track by Track Review

Mars Casino A cool punky edge drives this cut. It has some catchy hooks. It's energized and tastefully raw.

Jesus Stole My Little Dog This is a bit more metal. It's a stomper that's fun.

Garbage Can Another energized punk rock tune, this is classy and fun.

Turn the Pages Imagine Bob Dylan turned punk rock. Now you are in the right vicinity for this number. I love the guitar solo that seems as though it's back-tracked.

Big Black Sea Raw rock and roll with punk and even some country hints is the idea here.

Woman 3.2 I like the energy and drive of this stomper.

Follow Your Destiny The main riff on this is meaty.

Love Me Forever This is less of a punk tune and more of a melodic rocker with some punk edges. It's a nice change.

Made in Heaven More of a garage rock concept seems to be in the driver's seat on this tune.

Platinum Dress Now, this makes me think of Dire Straits to a large degree. The guitar fills have a real blues rock edge.

Passing of Days There is a driving intensity and drama to this piece. It's one of the real standouts of the set. The guitar work is on fire, and the vocals are among the best of the disc. The whole tune is just so cool.

Paper Tiger Melodic rock merges with a DIY presence on this cut. It has some catchy hooks and works pretty well.

This Is the Way Another potent punk rocker, this is a solid closer.

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