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THUNDHERSTRUCK -YOU'VE BEEN THUNDHERSTRUCK
INDEPENDENT
METAL TO INFINITY
Since years, a lot of labels release albums with bands from their roster that pay homage to their original heroes and archetypes. Each band records one or more songs, and willy-nilly adds a personal touch to the immortal classic tracks. Fans of the original bands buy these tribute albums to hear how other bands gave it a twist and fans of the participating groups buy the album as well, because they follow their heroes blindly. That's a good thing for the record label, but also for the major bands that get in the spotlights again, and last but not least for all bands that feature on such albums, because they get international attention and recognition. It's a win/win situation for everyone involved and sometimes you get funny things with these concepts. If you listen to the metal versions of e.g. Abba's greatest hits, a smile can’t be suppressed and it gives an alternation to everyday metal releases.
The next move was founding bands that copy the original bands and play the classic rock songs live on a stage in a small smoky pub or a big venue with an all stars tribute bill. This is probably a rage or impulse, but also great moments of joy and laughter. If you ever saw Kisstory play Kiss songs, Metal Gods playing Judas Priest or Axxept playing Accept, you will know that an evening of tribute metal has everything to become a successful evening.
From the USA, I received a package from the ultimate all-girl tribute to AC/DC band, and this is a must see and hear experience! Not only the fact that this is a female tribute band makes them original, but the way how they perform ''Sin City'', ''TNT'', ''For Those About To Rock'' etc… brings them to one of the best tribute bands I’ve ever heard! Dyna Shirasaki her voice has a lot of distinction of the male counterpart, but when she gets in the role of Bon Johnson, she becomes a wild animal with dangerous claws! Tina Wood plays the guitar and turns into Angus, Carin Toti is Malcolm on stage, Andrea Zermeno becomes Cliff and finally, Stephanie Leigh becomes The Rudd-ster. These girls combine the raw power of AC/DC with a hard hitting, heart pounding and electrifying performance!
ThunderHerStruck brings AC/DC in an original package and they proved being worth to play so many gigs in the US and abroad. For example: opening for Foreigner, Grand Funk Railroad, Toto, INXS, Journey, and a private event with Prince (!!) at the House Of Blues is quite impressive. Having toured all over the United States, and playing gigs in Germany, Afghanistan, The Balkans, Iraq and numerous T.V. Shows, it must be said: this band has the balls!
This year, the band will come over to Europe once again to attend the MusikMesse in Germany combined with gigs in some West European countries! Check their homepage for detailed information: www.ThundHerStruck.com and make sure not to miss a gig when they play in your area! Rating is difficult, because you can't top an original AC/DC song, but for their effort, looks and performance they deserve a big score! They Shook Me All Night Long!!! My rating: 90/100
Patrick de Sloover on behalf of Metal To Infinity Webzine