MAMMOTH WVH Mammoth II
( BMG )
The second full-length album from Wolfgang Van Halen under the moniker Mammoth WVH is an exercise in independence . While the first Mammoth album also featured Wolfgang playing every single instrument , similar to the first Foo Fighters album , those sessions had a certain priceless assistance . The oversight of Wolfgang ’ s father Eddie . Considered by most to be one of the greatest guitar players of all time , the sessions for the first Mammoth album were a bonding experience for the guys , especially since Eddie ’ s health was in rapid decline at the time . Without that secret ingredient , would Mammoth WVH be able to stand on its own ? The answer is a resounding yes . While this form of hard alternative rock saw its apex of popularity near the year 2001 , you can ’ t get around the fact that Wolfgang has chops in spades . His vocal ability is unexpected . When Eddie changed the world with his guitar prowess , he had the intuition to find the right vocalists to match his vision . Wolfgang need not look further than the man in the mirror . With a voice strong enough to pull off pop music , Wolfgang could ’ ve gone far on American Idol , and these songs all benefit from his nimble vocal attack . Of course , the guitars are crunchy and lyrical , but that was a given . Where the first album ’ s highlight was “ Distance ,” a beautiful tribute to his pops that should have been a huge hit , Mammoth II follows it up with another , more subtle tribute with “ Miles Above Me .” Tension-building verses lead to a chorus that is nothing short of an epiphany , with Wolfgang coming to terms with the difficulty of filling his father ’ s shoes . The lead track , “ Right ?” sets the mood with its strange time signature and off-kilter melody . Where his drumming is certainly technical and powerful , unfortunately , the compressed studio production leaves the mix a little toothless . While recording at the legendary 5150 Studios in Studio City , CA , is an awesome tip of the cap to the family legacy , maybe bringing in the right producer could be the missing link that pushes Mammoth WVH to the next level of notoriety . While there is something to be said about independence , there could also be something rewarding with finding the perfect collaborator . Either way , it is clear that Mammoth WVH has just begun their journey , and it is fun to be along for the ride from the beginning .
– Andy Derer
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