Introduction
"Angel Down" is the third solo studio album by the Canadian heavy metal vocalist Sebastian Bach, launched on November 20, 2007. Understood for his time as the frontman of the band Skid Row, Bach provides an effective and energetic album that showcases his skills as a singer and songwriter. The album features 14 tracks, supplying a mix of heavy metal, hard rock, and even ballads. Bach collaborated with several gifted artists for "Angel Down", including Axl Rose from Guns N' Roses, who contributed visitor vocals on 3 songs. The album received blended to favorable reviews from critics and marked a notable comeback for Bach after a significant space from his previous solo album, "Bring 'Em Bach Alive!" (1999).
Background and Production
Following his departure from Skid Row in the late 1990s, Sebastian Bach concentrated on numerous tasks such as his solo profession, acting, and working together with other musicians. After the release of his first solo studio album, "Bring 'Em Bach Alive!" in 1999, he went through an extended period where he did not launch any solo material, although he continued performing and exploring with other bands.
The production of "Angel Down" began in 2005. The album was produced by Roy Z, who has dealt with significant heavy metal artists such as Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford. Bach mentioned that he wanted to create an album that was musically heavy and aggressive while still including his signature high-pitched vocals.
Visitor Appearances and Collaborations
Among the most significant aspects of "Angel Down" is the visitor appearance by Axl Rose, the prima donna of Guns N' Roses. Rose provides his distinctive voice to 3 songs on the album, specifically "Back in the Saddle", which is a cover of Aerosmith's traditional track, "Stuck Inside", and "(Love is) A Bitchslap". Bach and Rose's relationship and mutual regard for each other's skills resulted in this partnership, which wound up becoming a distinct selling point for the album.
Music and Lyrics
"Angel Down" displays different musical impacts ranging from traditional heavy metal to modern-day hard rock. The album starts with the relentless title track, which is a high-energy, guitar-driven tune that showcases Bach's effective vocals. Other significant tracks include "You Don't Understand", a heavy yet melodic tune that goes over stretched relationships, and "Falling into You", a sincere ballad that reveals raw emotions.
Thematically, Bach tackles topics such as love, betrayal, loss, and individual battles in the album's lyrics. He presents a sincere reflection of his experiences, producing a psychological connection with the listener.
The album also includes a cover of the 1976 tune "American Metalhead" by the band Tuff, which is a nod to Bach's love for the genre.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Angel Down" received combined to favorable reviews from critics. Lots of praised Bach's singing efficiency and the album's heavy sound, while some slammed its absence of creativity and cohesion. In spite of the mixed reaction, the album debuted at number 190 on the Billboard 200 chart and has because gotten a cult following amongst heavy metal enthusiasts.
"Angel Down" marked a strong return for Sebastian Bach into the heavy metal scene after nearly a decade without a solo studio album. The existence of Axl Rose and the powerful performances showcased in the album assisted solidify Bach's credibility as a talented and influential musician within the category.
Artist: Sebastian Bach
Sebastian Bach's life & musical journey, from Kid Wikkid to Skid Row & beyond. Delve into his biography, Canadian roots, and memorable quotes.
More about Sebastian Bach