Forty-Five years and counting. Girlschool set the world alight with album number fourteen WTFfortyfive? Indeed, where does the time go? What we have here is twelve songs full of melody and hooks galore. A definite addition to all who love their music and no-nonsense Rock and Roll.
The album kicks off with “It Is What It Is”. Thundering bass, full of attitude, with every word sung from the heart. Next up is “Cold Dark Heart”, a classic with a haunting touch to the chorus. It’s one of my favourite songs on the album.
“Bump In The Night” is a rock-solid number, and I guarantee you’re going to tap away through this tune. Moving onto “Barmy Army” takes me back to an earlier feel of these rock royals with a party mood. It’s full of melody and another chorus to sing along and blast on repeat several times.
“Invisible Killer” follows with a classic rock feel and a superb hook. It’s another favourite that I’d like to hear live. Halfway through the album, we have “Believing in You” – an anthem for all things Rock n Roll if I ever heard one. It’s solid throughout. Classic rock with a chanting chorus. “It’s a Mess” is another notable favourite on the album. It’s one for a Sunday drive to the coast. Next up is “Into the Night” another classic, that is well-structured with a commercial vibe. Followed by the hard rocking “Are You Ready?” The first single from the album, as you’d expect a blistering rip of rock and roll featuring Joe Stump.
“Up To No Good” blasts out next with a fast-pace and a punky edge reminiscent of early Girlschool. The penultimate tune “Party” reminded me a little of the Beastie Boys’ “Fight For Your Right” but with more Rock and Roll turned up to 11 of course. We finish on a classic cover “Born To Raise Hell” featuring none other than Biff Byford (Saxon), Phil Campbell (Motörhead), and Duff McKagan (Guns N’ Roses). What else do you need for a good time? A perfect album for a good sing-along any day of the year.
Words by Russell Peake
