Australian instrumental guitarist Hayden Birmingham delivers an unapologetic storm of blues-metal swagger, high-octane hard rock, and technical shredding. Fusing blistering lead work and intricate solos with heavy, riff-driven grooves, Birmingham’s sound channels classic rock heavyweights with sheer guitar virtuosity and satirical glory.
After releasing a couple of singles like “Getcha Pull” and “A Day Late, And A Dollar Short”it's time now for his debut album. Rude Mood comprises of 12 songs for 36 minutes of music.
The album opens with a relaxed, Western feel on "If I didn't have Bad Luck, I had no luck at all," setting up a great entry point for the two energetic and punchy singles that follow, which recall Ritchie Sambora in both mood and guitar style. "Spilt Milk Under The Bridge" brings Joe Satriani to mind and will instantly get your foot tapping, while "Chilli Bomb" delivers a similar vibe paired with very cool basslines and riffs reminiscent of Use Your Illusion-era Slash. Bringing a distinct change of mood, "Miura & Manolete" introduces stunning Spanish-inspired guitar work.
Among the other standout tracks, "Act in Haste, Repent at Leisure" features incredible solos, "Angry Mama" hits with a bluesy groove, "Barracudalou" shines through its tight rhythm section, and the atmospheric "Lullabies for A Broken Fretboard" closes the record in much the same mood as it began.
Overall, Rude Mood is a eclectic album with a top-tier performance and an amazing production quality as well. Every song has something genuine to say while staying straight to the point, a rare and welcome quality in an instrumental record.