LONDON, UK (Top40 Charts/ Bad Obsession Official Website) - There's a young band currently rocking the U.K south coast with its own blend of Aussie pub rock, ingrained with hints of sleaze, blues, punk and swagger - all played at a volume set to shake foundations. They're called BAD OBSESSION and consist of Nathan Ali (Vocals/Guitar), Tom Hewson (Bass), Harry Gamblin (Drums) and Aidan O'Farrell (Lead Guitar).
During a relatively short time together, they've won awards in England for being the 'Most Entertaining Band,' as well as 'Best New Band.'
'I try to add the piercing bends that Angus Young strikes along with the low melodic growl that Slash pumps through our ears, plus the perfectly executed guitar runs that Marty Friedman constantly feeds into his songs,' say's lead guitarist Aidan. This month, they release their debut E.P entitled 'Forget Love,' recently reviewed by US magazine Music Underground Entertainment News.
'It could easily be a cross between the beer soaked gritty riffage of Rose Tattoo, and Kiss's ruthless take on rock 'n' roll. However, Bad Obsession aren't tearing it up in downtown Detroit just yet. 'Forget Love' is infact the brainchild of four young teens from the coastal town of Hayling Island, England.
It's a common interpretation of rock induced frenzy, with the added warmth of that old vinyl collection - circa mid to late seventies. That said, it's not quite as straight laced as one might expect. Sure, there's no shortage of simple, yet cutting guitar chops, but it's got its highs too, which emerge in the form of some sophisticated lead breaks. Immensely mature, there's no mindless misplaced shred to be found here, and all played by Aidan O'Farrell who's only fifteen - was this dude born with a guitar in his hand begs the question.
If a KISS meets Guns 'n' Roses kind of flavor is constantly on the tip of your tongue, or remotely wets the appetite to lick up something stronger, then 'Rock 'n' Roll City' is the track for the i-player. 'Got My Pistol,' initially has an uncanny 'Sex Pistols' kind of feel to it in the raw sense, notched up a level with its diverse guitar solos - of which there are three. A clever take on musical form that's less typical than most.
Title track 'Forget Love' is a chugging and memorable anthem - a satisfying presentation of contrasting guitar rhythms, dynamics and textures. The fact it's home to one of the most exceptional and engaging guitar solos to be found on this record only enhances its appeal - a real show piece.
In summary it's fun and to the point. It also kicks ass. The relaxed cool style of Nathan Ali ensures the vocals are not over prominent, allowing the heavy and precise guitar chops to do the talking - and lets face it, that's precisely what this EP is all about. It's got balls.' Jus Forrest, 2010.
