STEAMHAMMER/SPV ALBUM RELEASE: Moggs Motel- Self-Titled

 

Words by Anselm Anderson

Legendary Rock singer Phil Mogg returns like a phoenix from the flame. No less than two years ago, Mogg disbanded his iconic rock band UFO, following a heart attack. Fortunately, a chance meeting with Voodoo Six bassist Tony Newton at the American Embassy proved to be the turning point in ushering in the return of Mogg. The duo joined long-time producer Neil Carter in writing twelve rock tracks for his new band, Moggs Motel.

Phil Mogg has lost none of his charm and charismatic voice, as he is joined by drummer Joe Lazarus and guitarist Tommy Gentry to complete the lineup. The album is the polar opposite of the guitar-driven rock of UFO, as Mogg and co-deliver a personal collection of songs through a combination of blues, soul, gospel and hard rock.

Photo Credit: Charlie Smith

Adding the group's younger members gives the guitar a modern American rock sound full of flashy interplay and constructive riffs. This helps supplement Mogg's timeless vocals, as he croons over personal observations and life stories. Moggs Motel was recorded at Iron Maiden's Steve Harris' Essex studio in England, still capturing a 70's English rock edge.

The album opens with two recent singles, "Apple Pie" and "Sunny Side of Heaven," which are great choices for the opener. Mogg's enthusiastic soulful croons are joined by the thick rhythm play and timeless drumming for a tasty nod to 70s blues rock. The soulful rock of "Sunny Side of Heaven" is enhanced by the backing gospel band, making it an upbeat rock track.

Mogg's Motel steps back from the heavier rock of the opening tracks with the introspective blues of "Face Like An Angel" and "I Thought I Knew You". These lyrics showcase Mogg's deep reflection alongside the hyperbolic dual guitar play of Newton and Gentry. The guitar work in the album can be a bit of a sticking point, as there are times when it feels out of sync with Mogg. The album is a blend of ideas that Mogg had set aside from UFO, along with input from producer and guitarist Neil Carter. This becomes evident on the album as Mogg combines his gothic, soulful, and bluesy sound with Carter's aggressive, distorted guitar rock sound. "The Princess Bride" features prog elements, blending dark, atmospheric passages with a grungey guitar sound and a catchy gospel chorus.

The album continues with the ethereal ballad "Other People's Lives," which features the deathly sound of an orchestra, as well as the rousing rocker "Tinker Tailor," accompanied by an efficacious gospel that adds a 70s spark to the proceedings. The production effectively showcases the talents of each individual musician. It also reveals a different side of Mogg, demonstrating his skill in collaborating with musicians and shaping the music to his own taste. I feel like this is like an autobiography of Phil Mogg, as we experience an array of different dynamics and genres here.

"Wrong House" is a fun Rock and Roll track, whilst "Shane" and "Storyville" show a more sensitive and intimate side to the album. These two tributes wrap up this triumphant chapter in an iconic rock singer's life.

Mogg's Motel offers a refreshing change for classic rock fans, as it showcases a departure from Mogg's days with UFO. It's enjoyable to hear a singer explore his own style of music and have fun with it at this stage in his career, especially after a previous health scare.

Rating: 8.5/10

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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©