Formed in Oakland, California, Lionheart has been rocking since 2004. After bringing their run in the music industry to an end over a year ago, the group has realized retirement isn’t for them. After five albums, Lionheart is releasing ‘Welcome To The West Coast II,’ citing bands such as Blood For Blood, Hatebreed, and Ringworm as their musical influences. The returned lineup consists of Rob Watson (vocals), Evan Krejci / Rob McCarthy (guitar), Travis Pacheco (bass), and Jay Scott (drums).
Lionheart describes their upcoming album as “pissed, heavy, and straight-up.” The band did not lie, as one of their first new single, ‘Trial by Fire,’ grabs listeners by the throat and demands attention. With the music video flashing clips of energetic crowds, middle fingers, and performances by the band, Rob Watson screams, “Thank you for the long drives, the late nights, all the inside jokes, and the fights.” Embellished with excellent drumwork from Jay Scott, ‘Trial by Fire’ is a fast-paced rocker for sure.
Fast-forwarding to the second track of ‘Welcome To The West Coast II,’ ‘Still Bitter Than Cold’ embodies the headbanging spirit with Evan Krejci and Rob McCarthy’s commanding guitar riffs. One can only imagine how the pits will react. ‘Cursed’ raises the bar, with the same in-your-face and violent style the whole album continues to deliver. The track evokes some Gojira vibes, and is a fine addition to this collection of anthems.
Closing out the album with ‘LHHC ’17’, Lionheart delivers a no-holds-barred hardcore track worthy of being played on repeat. “We still won’t stop,” sings Watson. “You’re either with us or against us!”
‘Welcome To The West Coast II’ is a fitting return for Lionheart. Long time fans of the ensemble as well as newcomers will enjoy the break-neck pace feel of the album; ‘WTTWC II’ will definitely become a fine addition to anyone’s workout playlist. The anger-filled vocals and violent overtones are most definitely attempting to force everyone to move, and they will definitely succeed.
Lionheart – Upcoming Tour Dates
· Sunday 19 – November 2017 – Magasin 4, Brussels, Belgium
· Friday 01 – December 2017 – The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, UK
· Saturday 02 – December 2017 – The Underworld, Camden, UK
· Sunday 03 – December 2017 – O2 Academy Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
