The band formerly known as The Shitheadz is back with a pretty terrific release. Deathrider is full of driving hard rock that is like a heavier Nickelback, energetic and pounding rock whipped into little melodic nuggets.

Under their former name, the German band released one full length and several EPs before that which were apparently more hardcore than the music on Deathrider. The band currently includes group founders Guido Reuss (guitar), March Neschen (bass) and Oliver Black (drums), along with vocalist Christoph Birx (who looks a bit similar to Tim “Ripper” Owens) and lead guitarist Andreas Peters.

Almost every cut on this record crackles with an urgency that is appreciated by these who ears that have heard a lot of filler lately. The first cut “Legion of Rock” is probably the highlight of the record with the compelling vocals of Birx really holding your attention.
It’s followed up by an adrenaline rush of a cut, “Destroyer” which is one of the best on the record.

A lot of the cuts fall into the same territory, so it was nice to come across “The Undertaken” which starts off a bit more modestly than the rest, highlighting Birx’s vocals once again.

MotorJesus has a great sound and you can imagine that they would be a great live act. In fact, without little trouble, you could see them opening for the likes of KISS and Motley and fitting right in.

Deathrider is a solid record and if you’re into the hard rock end of things with great vocals and snarly guitars, this one’s for you.