FLAMING SIDEBURNS
Sky Pilots (Jetset)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

---

The second stateside album for these Finnish rock and rollers sees some changes in sound and direction. Less retro '60s garage than the album previous to this, there's Moog synth making appearances, psychedelic effects scattered about, and a more early '70s vibe throughout the whole thing. "Save Rock and Roll" kicks things off sounding like Exile-period Stones. "Pictures Far Behind" has psychedelia all over it, right down to the effects-laden backing vox. They tip their hats to original psychedelic legend Roky Erickson with a cover of his "The Interpreter." "Effecto-o Tequila" has a kind of '60s soul sound, some great Hammond organ playing, lyrics in English and Spanish, and guest duet vocals from Mari Microgirl! "Let me Take You Far" has that Stones thing going again, lots "who-hoo" backing vocals (courtesy of Nicke and Robert of the Hellacopters) and Richards/Taylor style fretwork. Hellacopters guitarist Robert Dalquist shows up again and adds some tasty lead to "Submarine Sensation." I like this, even though it's a little more restrained sounding than previous efforts. The album even ends off with a piano-based ballad called "Drive On." Yet the songs are really strong and it's cool to hear them expanding their horizons. Also cool is the Quicktime video for "Street Survivor," a great tune off their last album.

© 2003 - Alan Wright