Album Review: The Neptune Power Federation - Mano A Satano

It's odd that Mano A Satano flew largely under 2012's radar, considering that The Neptune Power Federation features Jay Frenzal on bass and Nancy Vandal alumni Fox Trotsky and Dean Bakota on guitar and drums respectively. It's the alternative zeitgeist's loss really. This cheesy homage to '80s hair metal is fun from the opening monk chants of the album's title. Screeching guitar and Poison-reminiscent vocals will separate the lovers from the haters seconds into the record. By the time track two, Wizard Lovin', kicks off, you're likely sure whether or not you'll be enjoying the remainder of the album. Over the top lyrics about maidens being seduced by a forest man with wizard powers and magic hands? Yes please.

Skies Of Sound is one of the better things anyone attached to this band has penned in recent years: pulsing electro funk and screaming guitar work usher in comically epic lyrics about flight and the heavens. Curses too, delivers on the record's high concept idea of tongue in cheek, through brilliant, guitar shredding and demonic-sexual lyrical work. Something must be said of the production work too, which was handled in house by Trotksy (or 'Inverted Crucifox' as he is known here). The crisp, punchy and polished-but-not-too-polished sound suits the album to a T. The occasional electro flourishes by way of science fiction soundtracks appear intermittently to great effect.

If you buy into this high concept record then there'll be no stopping your enjoyment of this hard rocking hair metal homage. Love one track? Then you'll probably find it hard to pick a favourite.