Press play and a roaring riff will immediately make you pleased you picked up ‘Shocker’ from Cheltenham four piece Welcome Back Delta. They’ll throw you into the grips of their gritty rock sound from the word go with first track ‘Burning the Candle’. A fast drum beat, and continuation of amazing riffs sets off the tone for the rest of the album.

The characteristic riffs experienced in the first song continue to rip through the second track, ‘Concrete Donkey’. Raspy vocals are the stand out feature of this track alongside a chorus that will have you signing along after the first listen!

‘Deep Bone’ has very much a 70’s rock vibe about it. Outstanding guitar work and a catchy beat both make for great listening. The lyrics are catchy and sexy, all adding to the rocky edge the band emulate so well.

Drums prepare the listener for an uproar of guitars. Bass acts as a powerful undercurrent to the purely instrumental ‘Rise of the Shabu Shabu’. Although lyrics have featured heavily so far in the album, they are not missed in this track due to the dynamic composition. Showcasing just how good these guys are at what they do.

‘Dropping Like Flies’ welcomes the return of vocals in a heavier sounding display. Vocally, the track is seemingly more emotionally charged than seen previously. Change of tempos towards to end lean into a softer sound, leaving the listener reflecting on the alum so far, yet hungry for more!

‘Scimitar’ encompasses the skill Welcome Back Delta have for making catchy, solid rock songs. This track also includes one of the best solos on the whole album towards the end…definitely worthwhile listening!

A darker sound is again created in ‘Revelators’. Distorted guitar flows thought the track supported by smouldering vocals.

Much like the first track, ‘Cadillac Tank’ opens with a characteristic riff attack. A gritty sound is created providing an empowering anthem. Midway through the song and instrumental sections displays the band’s brilliant twist on classic rock ’n’ roll which makes listening an absolute pleasure.

‘Running Guns’ brings drums to the forefront once again. Administering a fast tempo, guitar soloing, raspy vocal led delight to the listener.

A sultry anecdote is provided In ‘Twist of Fate’. Bass and drums act as a support for stand-alone guitar work. Gravelly vocals only add to the atmosphere, before unleashing into a full frontal outbreak of fast tempo heavy riffs. This is the distinctive sound that you will come to know and love when listening to Welcome Back Delta.

‘Spinal Injury’ rounds off the album with another great array of song writing, production and composition. Welcome Back Delta display variety throughout the album, whilst staying true to themselves and a classic rock ‘n’ roll sound!

Grace Copley