Search - Helix :: White Lace & Black Leather

Still Alive And Well

Sampson Simpson | Canada | 07/06/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Helix survived two member changes from their first album, Breaking Loose, to this one, their second. Mike Uzelac (bass) and Leo Niebudek (drums) came aboard, filling some difficult shoes. Previous drummer Brian Doener was considered one of Canada's finest, and original bassist Keith Zurbrigg had a much loved stage persona that included wearing a tux every night.



The music doesn't suffer much for it. The band still managed to come up with enough great material to fill an album that stands up to the first. Title track "Breaking Loose" was a typical Helix party rocker, a fast song, often used to open their sets. "It's Too Late" was mid-tempo, similar to many tracks on the debut, and is one of their best tunes. Helix get serious for a moment with "Time For A Change", and "Hangman's Tree" also brings a few issues to the table. "It's What I Wanted" lightens the mood, a mid-tempo rocker with a great melody. Brent Doener comes back with another lead vocal on the track "Mainline", and "Thoughts That Bleed" is a proggy, slow closer with lots of dynamics.



So, if the songs are this good, why only four stars? One reason is the similarity to the previous album, Breaking Loose. You get the feeling that some of these tunes are updated versions of ones you've heard before. Also, as good as these new members are, longtime fans really miss Brian Doener on drums.



Pick it up, it's an album Helix are justly proud of."