| Beatallica - Sgt. Hetfield's Motorbreath Pub Band
If you just did a double take at the title of this album, you won't be the only one. When I put this album on in the house, it gradually dawned on the wife exactly what was coming out of the speakers, and I could almost feel the words "What. The. Fuck." scrolling across her brain.
It's exactly what it sounds like - Beatles songs, done in the style of Metallica. Some people will probably find the very idea hilarious, while others will instantly dismiss it as a gimmick. Truth be told, I dont really care - believe it or not, it actually works. Thats probably because it strikes a perfect balance - it isnt being taken too seriously (obviously), but Beatallica seem to care enough about both bands to put some real thought into what they've done.
You see, it isnt just Beatles songs played with heavy guitars. It isnt just Metallica songs with Beatles lyrics. It's a careful mixture of Metallica riffs, Beatles chords and tunes, and Hetfield's signature vocal style. For example, the high point of the album is a no-brainer as far as I'm concerned - The Beatles' Taxman is merged seamlessly with Metallica's Enter Sandman. The Sandman riff is unmistakable, but so is the Beatles song structure, yet they dont clash - they somehow complement each other. At times, the lyrics seem a bit forced, but thats a minor complaint considering how well they have managed to fuse the two styles.
That isnt to say it isnt funny - it is. Having only listened to it a few times, I still find it quite amusing. Whether I'll still be saying that in a few months time remains to be seen. I have the feeling that once the novelty wears off, I'll only be bringing this one out at parties to watch people's faces when they hear the Beatles Lady Madonna crossed with Leper Messiah. But there's nothing wrong with bringing a few bemused smiles to a good night in, if you ask me.
Sgt. Hetfield's Motorbreath Pub Band is available now.
PS: On a side note, with my last review much was made by the good citizenry of Alt Nation about the question of whether I considered the album as one of the top ten in the genre. I hadn't realised I held such influence, but to keep you guys happy, here you go: I reckon Sgt. Hetfield's Motorbreath Pub Band DOES deserve a place in the top ten humourous rock albums of all time, but then again, apart from Weird Al and Richard Cheese, there isnt all that much competition. |
