It’s been nine years since Winger have released a new album. For a while there, they were churning out some great material post reunion. Proving that they’re truly a cut above the rest of their peers. Some of which can barely keep a live act together. Much less release quality, if any, material. But in the past near decade, Winger went silent. But now they’re back in a big way. With some of their strongest ever material delivered in the aptly titled ‘Seven.’
The album opens with ‘Proud Desperado.’ The first single to be released. It’s a strong opener. But not nearly as great as the rest of the offerings. ‘Heaven’s Falling’ is everything that’s right about 80′ hard rock. It’s pure pop metal perfection. And oh so Winger. ‘Tears of Blood’ has a bit of a 90’s vibe. Proving that Winger transcend more than just what they’re labeled as. But there is this speak/song interlude that’s very unnecessary. It doesn’t ruin the song or anything. Just a little silly. ‘Resurrect Me’ is one of the stronger tracks on the album. A sick nasty low end riff perks the ears up during the verses. While Reb Beach offers up one of his signature shredding guitar solos.
‘Voodoo Fire’ is the first of three phat ass groove tracks. And it hits hard and catchy. With those classic progressive, bluesy metal riff interludes. Another Winger signature sound. And they still got it. They still sound fresh and inspired. ‘Broken Glass’ is a typical ballad for the most part. But it does do an excellent job of building up to a climax. One that Kip Winger steps up to vocally. ‘It’s Okay’ is the most unique track on the album. And one of the most stand out songs in Winger’s discography. The main reason? For the first time Kip doesn’t sing all of the lead vocals. Reb Beach lends his talents in as well. Also, the talk box riff is stellar. ‘Stick the Knife in and Twist’ is the heaviest song out of the twelve. Proving that Winger can keep up with all those who’ve mocked them over the years. Yeah, the new Metallica album is really good. But is it as bitchin’ as the new Winger album? In 2023, the answer is no.
And further proof of that is ‘One Light to Burn.’ The second of the phat ass groove metal trilogy on the album. And it maybe the best. It’s hard to say honestly. But the opening and main riff is one of massive addictive stature. The offbeat jam is also another golden moment. ‘Do or Die’ is the most progressive song of the bunch. A killer breakdown drops after a freshly original, melodic introduction. With time changes and original vocal melodies. It’s yet another notch on the albums belt of excellence. ‘Time Bomb’ concludes the epic, phat ass groove trilogy. Another phenomenal moment in a great album. ‘Seven’ closes with the second single. The neo-monster ballad ‘It All Comes Back Around.’ In all honesty, it’s not an album ruiner. But maybe Kip and co got a little carried away with ambience.
However, the overall result of ‘Seven’ is that it’s a total banger. The best post reunion album. And maybe top three best Winger albums overall. Everything is on point. With the exception of very few moments. Kip and co. sound rejuvenated and energized. Four out of five stars on this one. Here’s to hoping that they won’t make us wait another nine years before a new album. Crank it, live it, love it.
