It’s not fair. America gets overblown and overrated bands like Nickleback and the rest of the world gets interesting music like the Poodles. Formed in 2005, these guys are far too manly looking to be called the Poodles but such is life. The band’s latest album is a mix of modern rock with a strong nod to the hard rock’s past. There are a lot of guitars, strong melodies, keyboards and songs that range from hot and heavy to cold and lonely.

“I Want It” will interest old school rockers while “Cuts Like a Knife” and “Your Time is Now” will appeal to the younger rockers out there. The band are talented and creative and write well-crafted songs. At times, it is a tad redundant but when they are spot on, as they are on “As Time is Passing” and “Father to Son” then one realizes the Poodles are a damn fine band.

Although they have been together six years, this is a band that may have their best days ahead of them. All cylinders appear to be firing and now all they need is to dig deep and trust their instincts. I predict this is only the beginning for this band.

By Jeb Wright