White, Doogie: As Yet Untitled

Coming to prominence as the (so far) final vocalist to partner Richie Blackmore in Rainbow, Scotsman Doogie White has, since his one and only album with "the man in black", proceeded to carve out an impressive resume of Classic Rock vocal performances. Others who have benefited from the his rich, booming tones are Yngwie Malmsteen, Cornerstone and Midnight Blue (among others), although As Yet Untitled – yes that is the name of the album – is surprisingly Doogie's first foray into solo territory.

With Hammerfall's multi-talented Pontus Norgren handling the production, as well as a large chunk of the guitars, bass and keyboards on the album, there was never any doubt that AYU would have a sound to die for, but the big question was would the songs be of the same standard? Put simply the answer is a resounding yes, with Doogie and his stellar cast of musicians belting out ten tracks fit to grace any Classic Rock album! Yes the album may have members, or ex-members of Whitesnake, Rainbow (not just Doogie), Royal Hunt, Eden's Curse, and Black Country Communion, but unlike some albums that guest list isn't there to disguise a flabby set of songs – not one bit. In fact it wouldn't matter who was behind these songs, as they are vibrant, energetic and authentic. Bursting into life with "Come Taste The Band", which does indeed sound like Hughes/Coverdale/Bolin era Deep Purple you are left picking your jaw up off the floor as the stunning guitar licks, powering bass and simply awesome vocals of Doogie and Patti Russo (Meatloaf/Cher) steamroll over you. As introductions to an album go, this is a mighty statement, but any worries of things falling flat after that are quickly tossed aside with the Saxon meets Rainbow of "Time Machine" being equally impressive. Actually, as pointed out by a good friend of mine, Doogie has a strong hint of Biff Byford about his voice on this album (something I hadn't previously picked up on), which offers an interesting change of focus from the Dio and Coverdale mannerisms that he is so adept at pulling off. Classic Rock this may be, but don't think that means a lack of variation, as a Bluesier approach is found on the excellently crafted standout track "Secret Jesus", while Bon Scott era AC/DC comes to the fore on "Catz Got Yer Tongue".

Undoubtedly one the best albums of this type of the year; As Yet Untitled has been far too long coming. Thankfully it illustrates perfectly that Doogie White is not only one of the best, most complete vocalists out there, but that he writes fantastic songs as well. Highly recommended.

Track Listing
1. Come Taste The Band
2. Time Machine
3. Lonely
4. Land Of The Deceiver
5. Secret Jesus
6. Sea Of Emotion
7. Catz Got Yer Tongue
8. Living On The Cheap
9. Times Like These

Added: December 15th 2011
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: The Official Doogie White Web Site
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Language: english

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