Criminal Record

Review by Darren Kerr

The question isn't "is this album an anachronism?" because it is. April Wine, Nazareth, even Blue Oyster Cult are virtually obsolete; most of Canada's rock clubs are changing format; rock and roll heaven has become a labour of love, fist in the air purgatory. I applaud Rikers Island for sticking to their convictions even when their ilk are disappearing into the tar pits of styles gone by.

Criminal Record is well-produced, full of anthemic Canadian rock and roll with a sound that contains elements of Sweet, April Wine, Chilliwack, Triumph's Gil Moore, and a plethora of bands from my high school days, long since relegated to cloudy memory. "No I Don't" is the pick for commercial success, with its chunky riff and singalong chorus. "Love and Rage" has a main guitar line which is reminiscent of Sweet's "Sweet F.A." Elsewhere, songs range from acoustic power ballads to funkier workouts. It's good, but sadly, it's dated. Call the Kelowna radio stations, guys -- they're stuck in your time frame.

Artist Contact Info: #457 - 1027 Davie St., Vancouver, B.C., V6E 4L2, Canada