Originally published by L.S. Media. April 19th 2010.
Almost 40 years since his first foray into the music business, larger than life showman Meat Loaf has released his 11th studio album, bizarrely titled, Hang Cool Teddy Bear.
More importantly it the fourth studio album that the singer has had no collaboration with Jim Steinman, and in parts it shows that however much Meat Loaf is a talent in his own right, the one person who truly understands him and the best out of out of him is Steinman.
As ever Meat Loaf surrounds himself with a great set of musicians to perform the album including the wonderful Randy Flowers on guitar and vocals and John Miceli whose powerhouse drumming keeps you on the edge of your seat.
There are guest stars and legends galore throughout the album, all of them adding their own distinctive style to the songs. Justin Hawkins of The Darkness and Hot legs, Queen’s Brian May makes an appearance on Love Is Not Real alongside guitar legend Stevie Vai and television’s Hugh Laurie is a surprise bonus to hear as he plays piano on If I Can’t Have You.
Where he really excels is his choice of female vocalist to join him on certain tracks. In the past he was accompanied by the wonderful Ellen Foley, ageless Cher and Lorraine Crosby. On this album he is joined by long time session vocalist Patti Russo. Her voice blends well with Meat Loaf’s deep vocals.
The album itself is a roller coaster of songs, some will inspire you and make you believe that once more Meat Loaf is at the very top of his game, and then on some tracks you might find yourself wondering if at some point the band were watching the movies Flash Gordon or The Rocky Horror Picture Show, as it just has the feel of a group of people sitting in front of a cinema screen and trying to come up with a cheesy soundtrack.
That apart, it has to be said that the album is the best piece of work to come from Meat Loaf since 1993’s world-wide smash Bat out of Hell 2 and without doubt it is good to have the mighty Loaf back once more.
Ian D. Hall