CD REVIEW: RUBY VOODOO by Tonk

RUBY VOODOO by Tonk
(Melodic Rock Records)

Hailing from Canberra, Australia, Tonk release their highly anticipated sophomore album, 'Ruby Voodoo'. The album was produced by Nick Didia (Velvet Revolver, Stone Temple Pilots, RATM, Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen). This album rocks, plain and simple. Tonk wear the influences on their sleeve, for all to rock out to. Riff upon riff, Tonk build upon their Aussie hard rock heritage and bring it screaming and stomping into 21st century. Tonk are fueled and powered by Jinks (vocals), Steve Gray (guitar), Ben Roberts (guitar, harmonica), Michael Rosser (bass) and Matt Tennant (drums) Immediately upon listening, three good traits jump out; crisp production, talented musicianship, and strong performance. Guitarists Steve Gray and Ben Roberts are proficient and rarely derivative in delivery: take note of "9 Lives" or "Over the Edge". Jinks' vocal delivery can be best described as full volume brash and explosive. Musically, arrangements can sound modern like the opener "Pleasure and Pain" to straight up groove-laden melodic heavy rock as on "Snake Eyes" or "Voodoo" . The bottom line, this is good stuff, people. These boys come at you like a freight train. Pure hard rock fury! Period. ATTITUDE, POWER & PASSION, Tonk are the genuine article. Be warned: the songs will stick in your head long after you shut off the stereo. 'Ruby Voodoo' rocks from start to finish. Best if played loud. I highly recommend this album to anyone who wants to be blown away by balls to the wall in your face rock and roll!  - Highly Recommended
Tony @ The Dedicated Rocker Society