Chrome
's first full-length release since the death of co-founder
Damon Edge
in 1995, 1997's
Retro Transmission
is a resounding return to form for a band who had lost their way after co-leader
Helios Creed
had left in the mid-'80s. (Ironically, this tribute album is worlds above any of the disappointing albums
Edge
released under the
name from 1986 to 1990.) Wisely keeping the lyrics to a minimum (and on songs like "Sirius System" and "More Space," processing the vocals so heavily that their content is beside the point),
Creed
and the new
lineup -- featuring the return of
John Stench
on drums and brother
Hilary Stench
on bass -- keep the focus entirely on hypnotic rhythms, pummeling drums, and
's guitar and keyboard treatments, which add a layer of atmosphere and mystery to what would otherwise be fairly routine grinding, metal-edged rock songs. The highlights are the two most extended tracks: the nearly 11-minute title track, which sounds like the Stooges' "L.A. Blues" transported a few centuries ahead, and the almost pretty, worldbeat-influenced closer "Mithras." [
was re-released with three bonus cover tracks in 2015.] ~ Stewart Mason