The name Killer Bee might not roll off your tongue, but this band has been around 25 years, touring, making records and filming videos throughout the UK, Russia, Scandinavia and even in the U.S. Bassist/vocalist Anders “LA” Rönnblom and lead vocalist Brian “BEE” Frank have been writing and playing together even longer than the Bee has been buzzing. For their 2017 release, Eye In The Sky, the well-worn rockers manage once again to bring out all the bombast.
The rockin’ title track opens, complete with countdown sound effects, as the double guitar attack of Andre Hägglund and Chris Sjöström tops Denny DeMarchi’s organ (a mix of instruments we hear throughout this album). “Face The Night” makes use of DeMarchi’s organ and a specific guitar riff into a dark plod, while “Joystick Warrior” is a chunky rocker where drummer Shawn Duncan lays down a rolling beat for what may the album’s heaviest tune. Sans an overwrought l chorus, this is my favorite of these 10 songs.
“By My Side” features a descending piano line from DeMarchi and a very competent Axl Rose-like vocal from Frank. Once again, the full complement of the band’s harmony vocals slip in for a solid closer. It’s been two years since the previous Killer Bee album. Perhaps it was worth the wait because Eye In The Sky will not disappoint fans and rockers who dig this flavor of heaviness with a rich vocal mix.
~ Ralph Greco, Jr.
