Unprecedented and uncertain times lying ahead, we're crying out for a dose of guilt-free enjoyment. With the release of debut album 'Rock & Roll Is My Religion' on January 22nd, Dirty Rose supplies that in abundance. Formed in 2018 after meeting at ACM Guildford, Sven Smith (vocals/keytar), Ben Draper (lead guitar), Rory Levell (drums), and Jack Price (bass), pour their love of good times and rock n' roll into 36 minutes of 80s hair metal inspired ecstasy. Packed with tongue in cheek lyrics, fiery licks, and drums as big as Sven Smith's hair, they're not about to apologise for it.
This unapologetic attitude comes straight out the gate as bragalicious 'Turn It Up' spits fire; 'If you don't like our fucking music, you know where to go.' A heavy and fast paced intro sets the tone for the rest of the record as from start to finish, Dirty Rose is in your face about their devotion to the genre, proclaiming 'Heavy metal is my addiction.'
Where Extreme was a little more tame in terms of their 'if you don't like what you see here's', Dirty Rose has no such pretence. Smith's assertion of 'fuck your views’ in 'Step Off' is brash and to the point. An anthem for heavy metal fans dreaming of being in a band and making it big, 'Step Off' is the band's chance to prove they have serious musical chops. Opening with a drum solo, Levell awakens the rhythm demon in us all. Smith's distinct vocals creating a surprisingly well met union of pop punk meets metal. While later on, Draper gets to exercise his own musical prowess with a guitar solo which sets the tune ablaze.
A highlight for the record comes with ‘Birthday’, a power-packed statement to the naysayers and non-believers of those who have a dream and aren't afraid to chase it. There is also a message of support here, not only for the band themselves, but for those dreamers who do what they need to do to 'make sure that my light never ever fades.' The reason 'Birthday' is a moment in and of itself comes in the form of the metal equivalent of the bass dropping. 'Birthday' morphs into aggression and delicious heaviness with death metal growls and bass laden guitar riffs. The surprise is short lived, but it is one which makes 'Birthday' a main stay in Dirty Rose's arsenal.
‘Rock & Roll Is My Religion’ isn't all chase your dreams and fuck people who don't believe in you. In true fashion of the 80s icons which came before, Dirty Rose is also fond of chasing skirt, partying, and just having a fucking good time. 'Saturday Night' serves as an aural "guide book" to those wanting to start out in a band. Draper hooks you in by the waist with groove guitar riffs that scream 'It's the weekend so it's my time to play.' Vocal hooks abound make up the chorus, vying for a slot on that all important pre-drinks play list.
'I'm not trying to flex, but what's wrong with one time sex?' Smith asks in Dirty Rose staple 'Boyfriend'. Chugging guitar riffs and scalding licks drive this powerhouse of a track. That being said, a slower, much softer breakdown of the chorus shows that maybe they're not all sex and no cuddle. Don't get too attached to that idea however, as ‘Don't Wake Your Parents Up’ is a mischief filled tune about the awkwardness of getting down and dirty in your parents' home. The originality of Dirty Rose comes into full focus with the duelling solos of guitar and keytar. The addition of a keytar solo may put some off, but the tones between both instruments compliment each other well, and begs the question as to why keytars aren't used more often.
Dirty Rose's sermon ends with ‘Air Guitar Hero’, a song dedicated to an instrument that everyone can play; the humble air guitar. If you're going to take advice on how to let loose and enjoy air guitar from anyone, it should be Sven Smith, seeing as he was 2018s UK Air Guitar Champion. Once again, Draper provides a delectable solo for you to practice both your dexterity and guitar faces as you slide around the floor doing your best School Of Rock era Jack Black impression. ‘Air Guitar Hero’ is a song to lose yourself in and one which is undeniably infectious.
Boiling over with catchy guitar riffs, high octane drums, and ear-worm choruses, 'Rock & Roll Is My Religion' is a slice of unadulterated enjoyment for fans of KISS, Bon Jovi, and Motley Crue among others. Listening to the record, the brotherhood of Dirty Rose is strong and chemistry between them is palpable. Their tag line of 'Your girlfriend's favourite band' may just be true, but you should also make room for them in your own playlist because 'Rock & Roll Is My Religion' is proof enough that these mischievous rockers should make a return to play Download Festival. 'Turn it up loud cause we're loud and proud'.
You can listen to 'Rock & Roll Is My Religion' now across all streaming platforms and the bands website, where you can also pick up their new range of merch.
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