Scorpions are one of the longest running bands in metal, having formed way back in 1965. Their first album was in 1972, years before many of today's metalheads were even born. 40 years into their legendary career, they are still making good albums.
Even though they haven't had a major radio hit since 1990's "Wind Of Change," Scorpions still are able write really catchy, memorable songs, and
Humanity Hour 1
is no exception. This is a concept album about a world torn apart by a civil war between humans and robots.
There is a nice balance of harder edged rockers and monster ballads, and Klaus Meine still can belt it out. His distinctive voice doesn't seem to have lost much power or range over the years. In addition to Meine's vocals, there's also an appearance by Billy Corgan from Smashing Pumpkins on "The Cross."
Guitarists Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs are a strong duo with great interplay and technique, and their riffs and solos are flawless. The production on the album is excellent. Superproducer/songwriter Desmond Child co-produced with James Michael, who is a veteran producer and recently stepped out from behind the scenes as the vocalist for Sixx A.M.
Humanity Hour 1
proves that even though Scorpions have been around for a long time, their creative juices, excellent songwriting and musicianship are fully intact.