Review | Robin McAuley – Soulbound

Frontiers Music Srl

Robin McAuley, the iconic Irish rock vocalist releases his third solo album `Soulbound’. With a career spanning over four decades, McAuley has left a mark on the melodic hard rock scene, most notably as the frontman of the McAuley Schenker Group (MSG) alongside guitar virtuoso Michael Schenker. Their collaboration produced classic albums like `Perfect Timing’ and `Save Yourself’, all adding to the status McAuley as one of the premier voices in melodic hard rock. Unbelievable this is only his third solo effort, but it is a triumphant call to horns.

`Soulbound’ marks a significant evolution in McAuley’s sound as a songwriter, presenting a heavier and more guitar-driven edgier approach compared to his previous solo albums `Business as Usual’ and `Standing on the Edge’. Not counting his live album `Alive’, this also might have been a precursor to his current refound stride, as the new album boasts a genuine organic sound, capturing the prowess of his live performance. Produced by Frontiers knob twister Aldo Lonobile, it showcases McAuley’s desire to push his creative boundaries while staying true to his hard rock roots.

MELODIC GROOVE AND RAZOR-SHARP RIFFS

The title track, ,,Soulbound’’ sets the tone for the album with its melodic groove and razor-sharp riffs, perfectly complementing McAuley’s soaring vocals. Raspier and his range not narrowed nor degraded, his voice proven to have aged gracefully. Robin maintains his edge and injects a dominant note and sheer power in the tracks on the album. Blending songs into his range, the hard hitting ,,The Best of Me”, opening killer track ,,Till I Die”, and the melodic subtle ,,Crazy” demonstrate the new album’s blend of vulnerability and intensity, featuring infectious hooks and driving rhythms.

McAuley’s backing band, including guitarists Andrea Seveso and Alessandro Mammola, bassist Aldo Lonobile, and drummer Alfonso Mocerino, provides a solid foundation for his vocal firework. The songs go down with great pride. Tracks like the wonderful ,,Wonder of the World”, the raw and gritty ,,One Good Reason”, and ,,Paradise” prove the band’s admiration to McAuley’s vocal delivery, emphasizing his depth while firing on all engines.

HOMAGE TO MICHAEL SCHENKER

Frequently his collaboration with Schenker weaves into memory, like ,,Let it Go” and ,,Born to Die” with its scorching guitar melodies and solos. Almost like a homage to the master, these tracks add to the experience and press Robin’s legacy. His skills sky high, he taps the vein of the past and implements his melodic phrasing, like in his Grand Prix days, to make the songs shine melodically.

One of the standout tracks, ,,Bloody Bruised and Beautiful’’ exemplifies the raw power and emotional depth that McAuley brings to his performances. The wonderful groove and riff interaction propel the track, with Lonobile’s low growling bass at the foundation, paving the road for McAuley’s wonderful deep vocal delivery. He hits the highs like in his prime, while searing the notes. The instrumental section is simply astounding, and the sizzling guitar solo adds to the classic appeal of the track.

The album closes with the poignant riff-driven melodic hammer ,,There was a Man”, which serves as a testament to McAuley’s enduring vocal versatility. It makes the album go out with a bang.

ROBIN MCAULEY – THE CONCLUSION

`Soulbound’ is not just a return to form for Robin McAuley; it’s a powerful statement from an artist who continues to evolve while honouring his musical legacy. Uniting the best of all worlds, Robin crafted an album withstanding the test of time. The album successfully blends classic hard rock elements with a contemporary edge, appealing to long-time fans and new listeners alike. For those who fondly remember McAuley’s work with MSG or have followed his recent projects like Black Swan, `Soulbound’ offers a fresh and invigorating listening experience of Robin returning to his roots. McAuley’s enduring talent and his ability to create compelling, hard-hitting rock music that stands the test of time.

As Robin McAuley himself puts it, `Soulbound’ is “a much edgier, harder guitar-driven record” than his previous releases. This album not only showcases his iconic raw and raspy voice but also demonstrates his commitment to pushing the boundaries of his artistry. `Soulbound’ is a highlight in Robin McAuley’s illustrious career and classifies amidst his work recording with McAuley Schenker.

Release date: 28 February 2025