With the release of their fourth full-length album, “Star Spangled Fist Fight,” Kickin Valentina punches back into the rock scene with a collection that epitomizes the unapologetic spirit and vigor of old-school hard rock fused with sleaze rock. The band, which quickly gained prominence for their high-voltage performances and distinctive sound, continues to build on their robust discography with a release that is as confrontational as its title suggests.
From the very first riff of “Gettin Off,” it’s clear that Kickin Valentina isn’t just here to play music; they’re here to start a riot. The track sets a formidable pace with its gritty guitar lines and D.K. Revelle’s rasping, powerful vocals, which might just be his most potent delivery yet. The track’s aggressive sound encapsulates the album’s ethos perfectly: raw and raucous, designed to hit hard and leave a mark.
“Dirty Rhythm” and “Fire Back” follow suit, with the former offering an audacious, rhythmic assault complemented by a catchy mid-section that showcases Chris Taylor’s hypnotic bass play. “Fire Back,” on the other hand, serves as a sonic middle finger to the setbacks and backstabbers, propelled by Jimmy Berdine’s relentless drumming that ensures the track’s rebellious spirit is felt in full.
“Man On A Mission” and “Turn Me Loose” provide a slight deviation towards melody while maintaining the album’s gritty aesthetic. These tracks mesh the melodic sleaze of LA Guns with a modern rock sound that doesn’t just aim to replicate the past but rejuvenate it. “Takin A Ride,” the album’s anthem, encapsulates the essence of Kickin Valentina’s sound—catchy, dirty, and utterly irresistible.
However, the album isn’t without its pitfalls. While “Died Laughing” aims to blend humor with sonic aggression, it slightly misses the mark, feeling somewhat out of place with its tone that borders on the comical. Similarly, “The Hand of Creation” attempts a profound closing but meanders with a droning rhythm that struggles to encapsulate the album’s otherwise dynamic tempo.
Despite these minor stumbles, “Star Spangled Fist Fight” largely succeeds in delivering what it promises: a ferocious, uncompromising sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. The title track, “Star Spangled Fist Fight,” rounds out the album not just in name but as a summary of all its elements—brash, bold, and defiant.
“Star Spangled Fist Fight” shows Kickin Valentina’s ability to craft tracks that are as confrontational as they are catchy. The album’s production, led by Andy Reilly, ensures that each song is a polished riot, an organized chaos that old and new fans of rock ‘n’ roll will appreciate. Mastered with precision by Joel Wanasek, the album maintains a clarity that helps each track’s individuality shine while contributing to the album’s cohesive sound.
In a world of ever-evolving musical landscapes, Kickin Valentina reaffirms the place of sleazy hard rock with “Star Spangled Fist Fight.” It’s a raucous, celebratory declaration of the band’s identity, packed with all the hallmarks of a classic rock album—fiery vocals, compelling hooks, and riffs that stick with you long after the music stops.
Antoine’s Rating: 8/10
Kickin Valentina’s “Star Spangled Fist Fight” is a robust rock album that delivers high-energy, uncompromising tracks designed to resonate with the rebel in all of us. While it flirts with clichés at times, it does so with a confidence and swagger that is too genuine to dismiss. This album will not only satisfy long-time fans but also attract new listeners with its bold sound and rebellious spirit. Whether it’s the anthemic choruses, gritty riffs, or the sheer bravado of its production, “Star Spangled Fist Fight” is a fight you won’t want to miss.
Track-listing:
- Gettin Off
- Dirty Rhythm
- Fire Back
- Man On A Mission
- Turn Me Loose
- Die Laughing
- Takin’ A Ride
- Amsterdam
- Ride Or Die
- Star Spangled Fist Fight
Lineup:
D.K. Revelle – vocals
Heber Pampillon – guitar
Chris Taylor – bass
Jimmy Berdine – drums
Webshop:
Digital: https://kickin.lnk.to/fight
Further links:
Official site
Spotify
Tidal
Confirmed live dates:
27.04 – Dixie Tavern, Atlanta (US)
02.05 – Rock’N’Roll, Rho (IT)
03.05 – Met-Bar, Lenzburg (DE)
04.05 – Johnny’s Lion Cave, Trubbach (CH)
05.05 – Kulturfabrik, Wetzikon (CH)
11.05 – Nordic Noise Festival, Copenhagen (DK)
15.05 – Resonanzwerk, Oberhausen (DE)
16.05 – Asgaard, Ghent (BE)
07.09 – Hard Rock Hell Sleaze, Sheffield (UK)
13.09 – Sinner Rock Fest, Sinntal (DE)
