As this CD was reprinted and presented free at the recent tribute gig to the late Martin Ward we thought we’d give it a review.
Formed back in the 90’s, Burning Eyes had issues finding a guitarist that fitted in, Martin Ward was chosen to fill that space. A decision that proved to be the right one. Martin instinctively knew what the band was all about, with his rasping guitar work and intelligent musical mind, he was the final piece in the jigsaw. Martin with his “mad” hair, and sense of fun gave the outfit what it craved, which was freedom to invent. Martin’s guitar work was near perfect, never missing a note, even with the distractions of vocalist John’s usual stage madness. Eventually, their one and only CD was recorded. Burning Eyes “Greatest Hits”, and sadly only hits.
Not having heard this band before, I was somewhat intrigued as to its content. As soon as the first track starts, ya just know it’s gonna be good, very fucking good. For those who know Martin’s work, and certainly John’s, it’s easy to instantly be hear the lyrics and say ‘wtf is that all about’ and ‘what, why, where. Quite simply, it’s an observation of life, putting words together to express, some might say, the obvious. Make ya own mind up, no doubt 10 different people will give 10 different accounts of what it’s all about. And quite rightly so.
‘Feels so Good’ is a pleasant little ditty (!) outlining the not so pleasurable aspects of what I can only describe as having cholera! In some detail, John tells us about a girl who is suffering from weeping sores, internal bleeding and bowel issues, related to having a tropical disease. How quaint. Death is upon her and the Doctor, clearly without bedside manners informs her of such. John’s rasping, almost sleazy vocals rings out through some amazing guitar work, Martins talent clearly heard throughout, smashing the strings to give this tune a rich and whole aspect.
The opening riffs to ‘Hand in my Pants’ are faintly reminiscent of Billy Idols “dancing with myself” then quickly goes on to searing almost buzzsaw string work from Martin. Again, the vocals, this time with what can only be described as disdain to those who walk around in “gangsta” mode, with their fucking hands in their crotch. An obvious literation of our youth of today with nothing better to do that try and look like sommat they are not. Lyrically to the point and succinctly put. Get the message kids, ya look daft! Incidentally, loving the use of cymbals to coincide with the guitar. Something I think sadly lacks in bands these days. ‘(I Wanna) Trash You’ is an Interesting take on an anti-love song! Simple guitar chords and words to get a point across that you may not actually be wanted. No holds barred here, John being totally honest in his thoughts. Yet again the guitar of Martin complimenting John’s vocals perfectly, no over complicated riffs, in ya face drum work and simple lyrics to give a simple message “leave me alone”.
I Got Dirt and Andy Rowan opens this brilliant, and a favourite of mine, epic (6 and a half minutes) of a track, with a blistering bass line. Sparse of lyric, rich in instrumentals. Dynamically covering five decades of musical influence from MC5 to The Stooges, and dare I say it, prog rocky riffs in the style of Deep Purple. This collision of genres delicately works with each other, to make a stunning array of noise. Fascinating use of pedals to give some parts a “trippy” feel. John, Martin, Andy and Carl, in my humble opinion have nailed this track. Fucking love it.
All in all, this 4-track disc shows what can be done by 4 great musicians. If I could commemorate Martin over his music, it would be this. Thoroughly enjoyable and just a pity we will never see this line up again. Cheers!
Words: Johnny
I Got Dirt on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQMikizVZgc