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TODD MICHAEL HALL
Sonic Healing
2021 Rat Pak Records

RIOT V frontman Todd Michael Hall received acclaim last year for appearing on the hit NBC TV show The Voice, where he embraced his classic rock roots, performing such hits as FOREIGNER’s “Juke Box Hero”. Using this huge break to record and release his debut solo album Sonic Healing was a smart move. Teaming up with METAL CHURCH guitarist and founder Kurdt Vanderhoof, Todd capitalized on his new success and kept the momentum going. Sonic Healing is a refreshing throwback to the glory days of classic rock. You'll hear references to bands like BOSTON, FOREIGNER, RUSH, TRIUMPH, and STYX on this album, and several more bands. (There is even a nod to METAL CHURCH in here, I’ll let you figure out which song that is). To be clear, Sonic Healing is not intended to be the power metal of RIOT. This is classic rock style songcraft, with more straightforward, yet catchy riffs. This is Todd’s tribute to the classic rock bands of his youth. As he says, “There’s a hunger for this music, and there aren’t many artists trying to scratch the itch. We’re here to scratch the itch and bring the energy.” And this album definitely does both. Make no mistake, Todd is a phenomenal singer whose voice fits these songs well.

Album opener “Overdrive” (Video on KNAC.COM HERE) barrels down the highway straight away. Songs about driving fast are always welcome to these ears. “Let Loose Tonight” spells out Todd’s love for having a good time and rocking. (Video also on KNAC.COM HERE) “All On The Line” was an early choice for me as a favorite on the album. Infectious riffs and confident lyrics are sure signs of a winning track. This song has it all to become a successful single. “Running After You” became one of my most listened-to tracks; this song has the youthful days of summer fun in mind. “Love Rain Down” has one of the strongest grooves on the album, while title track “Sonic Healing” features one of Kurdt’s catchiest riffs. “Like No Other” may just be the best song on the album, with more of an early RIOT edge than any other song here. Todd’s vocals are excellent and Kurdt’s riffs and solo are tasty. “Somebody’s Fool” and “To The Bone” are strong deep cuts; both are infectious and demand you to sing along. Album closer “Long Lost Rock & Rollers” enforces the acknowledgement of classic rock influence with lyrics about growing up with the artists that ruled the radio.

Sonic Healing is ten solid rocking tracks, all in the three to five minute range. None of the songs overstay their welcome or drone on endlessly. To aim for a target and hit it so easily, is quite impressive, and Sonic Healing is a solid slab of classic rock. The album features two bonus tracks, “The Other Side” and “Not With A Sword”, which you will get with the purchase of the album. Rat Pak Records will release Sonic Healing on May 7th in a variety of formats, including CD, vinyl and cassette.

4.25 Out Of 5.0