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SIGNAL 13
Destination Unknown
2020 Independent Release

SIGNAL 13 is a hard rock quintet based in Baltimore, Maryland, and is comprised of veterans from the local scene: lead singer Vicky Starr, lead guitarist Jonathan Lassiter, guitarist Chris Starr, bassist Patrick Jenkins and drummer Johnny Sexx. They have garnered acclaim sharing the stage with bands like GREAT WHITE and KIX, and have a blue collar work ethic that is evident on this new five song EP, Destination Unknown.

The first thing that comes to mind when lead track, “Dirty” blasts forth from the speakers is the good time, bluesy, hard rock n’ roll from the ‘80s that bands like KIX, JUNKYARD, TORA TORA, and SMASHED GLADYS were famous for. The chant-along chorus is very infectious, and the riffs are perfectly tailored for the track. The subject matter of this song has a number of different meanings for the band. (Video on KNAC.COM HERE). The second track, “Karma”, is a mid-tempo jam with heavy power chords and a big refrain. This song builds up to a nice payoff. Johnny plays a nice drum part, and Patrick lays down some sweet bass lines on the track.

“Make It Rain” is a boogie number that draws you in, and then invites you to sing along. Some nice noodling guitar work by Jonathan can be found on this song. “Stay With Me” throbs with energy and harmonica accents, which give this song an almost CINDERELLA’s Long Cold Winter-era feel. This feeling is expounded on even more with the final track, the shake-it-loose blues of “All Fired Up”, easily one of the best tracks here. The swagger of the song is undeniable, and Jonathan’s solo is a nice touch.

SIGNAL 13’s main draw is vocalist Vicky Starr. Her voice is powerful and sexy. Catchy hard rock is the name of the game, and with Destination Unknown, SIGNAL 13 show much promise. Every song on this EP has appeal and this is a nice beginning for the band. I look forward to hearing more from them in the future. You can purchase Destination Unknown digitally or directly from the band at: www.signal13band.com

4.0 Out Of 5.0