Sixx A.M is the brainchild of former Motley Crue bassist, Nikki Sixx. Originally developed as a soundtrack band for his autobiography “The Heroin Diaries” in 2007, Sixx A.M. has taken on a life of its own. Made up of vocalist James Michael, bassist Nikki Sixx and guitarist DJ Ashba, Prayers of the Damned Vol 1 is the trio’s fourth album and first of two releases this year.
Stand out tracks include opening track and single Rise, it is reminiscent of the early days of Sixx A.M and sets the tone for the whole album. You Have Come to the Right Place is a catchy as hell song that you will be singing for days after. Prayers for the Damned, is a personal favourite. It is a song that many people can identify with, the lyrics will hit home for a lot of people.
Better Man and When We Were Gods both have a slight change in tempo, they are more power balled than other tracks. Can’t Stop is another full on rock song while Belly of the Beast and closing track Rise of the Melancholy Empire both show off Michael’s vocal range.
Sixx A.M. is a straight cut, rock band. Gone are the brassiness and sleeve of Sixx’s other endeavours and in its wake is a mix of raucous guitars, perfect harmonies and an outstandingly produced album. Prayers of the Damned Vol 1 is a breath of fresh air in a music world that is full of the same and if you are looking for a straight up rock album this is the place to start. Let’s hope that Vol 2 lives up to this standard when it is released later on in the year.
9/10