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Treats From The Underground Belowolf Productions
DAVID NEIL CLINE BAND - FLYING IN A CLOUD OF CONTROVERSY
(14 track CD) GAZOCHTAHAGEN RECORDS
David Neil Cline has been performing music in some form for over 3 decades now. "FLYING IN A CLOUD OF CONTROVERSY" is his 5th album release. David plays a mixture of Hard Rock, Modern Rock & Classic Rock with some strong influences of Blues & Jazz tossed in. On this new release he has mostly everything including vocals, rhythm, lead & acoustic guitars, bass, Hammond organ & assorted percussion parts. He also produced and engineered the album as well. His music is very well written & structured. I am always amazed when I hear someone with this much talent. This 5th release is by far David's best all around release to date. Amazing talent!
rockmetalbands.com mag/TV/promo agency
Veteran of the Hard rock/Heavy metal scene, David Neil Cline leads to his fourth full-length, embellished by a perfect, clean, powerful and loud production.
The first thing you will notice even if you don't have previous knowledge of his past works is that every song, either melodic, or tight and crushing or simply an up-tempo is that he spread lots of sweat in order to offer great refrains to double the impact of the groovy riffs.
In his long career, the Michiganian artist has improved his vocal skills as well as his lead/solo guitar masterdom, and that's why he can boast an excellent rendering of an acoustic Spanish-based track such as "Tamale Fever", which would make Santana's liver burst with envy.
As if it weren't enough, the 14-track Cd also includes songs that can only be the product of a genius. Not many might have a fervid imagination so as to compose a track like "Aggravated", heavy, weird, classic, and rich in diverse styles all masterfully matched. Definitely a potential heir of Frank Zappa.
Like said before the CD contains a great deal of tracks, as well as influences, and that's why mentioning one song instead of another appears to be a crime; therefore I'll just limit myself in informing you can for example find an interesting mix of Deep Purple and Motley Crue in "Fuck the Jones'", and immediately after "Alien Fetus", resembling Iron Maiden in some structures and sounds. In the end, what matters is that the rather long CD smoothely arrives at the end, also thanks to instrumental tracks that make the blend even more multiform.
David basically does everything but the drums and only in a few moments does he need the guest assistance of 3 guest musicians. He even took the recording and engineering duties in his arms, and this is a confirmation of his value and the blindness of labels after 3 decades of aworthy and respectful career.
Some lyrics are angry and politicized, but unluckily I can't tell you more as I'm devoid of the full copy of the record, but the titles and the lines I dug seemed smart.
After all, a pretty good album in all aspects, destined to appease you during room or car listening sessions. If you like this genre but for any reason have missed the opportunity of grabbing his old works, now get-at-able only at high prices due to the few copies of vinyls printed, do yourself a favor and give him a chance this time. This time you have myspace and the clip of "Road Rage", so you have no excuses!
MARKUS GANZHERRLICH - May 20th, 2010
METAL INTEGRAL Magazine FRANCE
The DAVID NEIL CLINE Band &endash; A Piece of History The BEST OF &endash; 2007 ROCK IT UP &endash; 14 Tracks
rockitup@arcor.de http://home.arcor.de/rockitup/
Here is the great oportunity for you to discover a brillant « Son of the 80's » musician! You will find the Best of the first album "A Fit of Rage" from 1987, "Malefic Influence" from 1989 and "Thorough Scrutiny" from 2001! All these albums exist on CD version of course (you will find details on David Website)! I am in contact with DAVID NEIL CLINE for long years as we review "A Fit of Rage" and "Malefic Influence" on METAL INTEGRAL print zine n° 11 back in June 2001! Then later we also reviewed "Thorough Scrutiny" that DAVID kindly sent us too! So no need to say I really like the Hard Rock/ Heavy Metal propose this band (cause YES it's for me a band and not a boring solo project, sometimes offer us some musicians!)… You will find four songs from the first album, four from the second and four from the last period, plus two bonuses. This is really a BEST OF! Only melodic and powerful Hard Rock or Heavy Metal, a place where the "Riff" is king! David's voice is wonderful and the songs will enjoy all the 80's Metal fans for sure! Sometimes you will find NWOBHM influences (DARKSTAR, WHITE SPIRIT for example), US HARD ROCK (early DOKKEN) or even real 80's US HEAVY METAL with raw guitars! On some songs you will find some musical parts that sound like "Mr HENDRIX" and that marry perfectly with 80's like Hard Rock! I really can't give you some songs better than the others! So if you like Traditional Metal and excellent guitarist don't lose any second and contact FRANKO at ROCK IT UP to buy this awesome CD! Congratulations for your career "Mr DAVID NEIL CLINE" you're not the most supported (and that's a shame) but you're surely one of the most honest with your music!
Style : Hard Rock / Heavy Metal
Artistic part (cover/booklet…): 2/5 (A presentation of the other CDs would have been great)
Interest for 80's Heavy Metal Fans: 5/5
Interest for Traditional Metal fans in general: 5/5
Future "collector" ? : No
RASKAL "The French Warrior" gives : 18/20
RASKAL "The Objective" gives : 19/20
TREATS FROM THE UNDERGROUND Magazine
PHOENIXVILLE, PA
(9 track CD) GAZOCHTAHAGEN RECORDS
This is the 20th year anniversary release for DAVID NEIL CLINE. He plays some really good old school Metal music. He blends together many elements of Power Metal, Thrash Metal, Traditional Metal & Progressive Metal music too. The music definately has an old school feel to it all through out. The vocals are also done in an old school Traditional & Heavy Metal style. There are some more aggressive ones mixed with some more melodic Power Metal ones. All old Metal heads would really enjoy this disc, which reminded me of older Metal; bands like SCORPIONS, JUDAS PRIEST, VAN HALEN & HELLOWEEN.
Malefic Influence
Like on 'Through Scrutiny' David Neil Cline brings Detroit Rock City. The vibe I got from listening to 'Malefic Influence' was 80's rock. No, I do not mean glam rock, but rock music the kind that makes the girls scream and go wild. David Neil Cline gives it to you and makes you listen. This album, which orginally was on vinyl was remastered a released is a must have if you don't have it. With songs like 'Picking Up The Pieces' and 'Suzy Homewrecker' you'd be sure to start screaming like a blonde chick from the 80's going wild. Overall: I don't what to say...I'll let David Neil Cline speak for itself.
Thorough Scrutiny
If I had to pick an album of the year for Freakz of Rock. I would have to say David Neil Cline. Why? For one, the simple fact that the band is brining back Detroit Rock City. Not to mention, this band kicks so much ass that not even Kid Rock can keep up. (Okay, so I'm overly exaggerationg a little bit), but David Neil Cline does kickass. When you listen to 'Through Scrutiny' your getting all the hard, heavy melodic rock music like the good ol' days. With songs like 'Snortin Whiskey Live', 'Follow Me' and 'Take It or Leave It' (a personal favorite). You'd be sure to piss of the old neigbhors with this one. Overall: A kickass album to ahve a keg party too. (Okay, maybe not a keg party, but damn it...its an album to have a good ol' time with the boys).
Reviews by Ashley
The best way I can think to describe David Neil Cline is very heavy rock with an obvious nod to his 70s and 80s music influences. This guy forges ahead with the fearless abandon of such great as Nugent, Deep Purple, Nazereth, and the Scorpions, coupled with technical excellence that reminds me of Yngwie Malmsteen Michael Schenker, and Rush. Without a doubt, David Neil Cline ROCKS.
Since the late 1980s, David has produced three releases - "Fit of Rage", "Malefic Influence", and the new "Thorough Scrutiny" - all available on his own record label, Gazochtagen Records. "Fit of Rage" has gone through several incarnations (the original, the re-mix, and the re-re-mix) and "Scrutiny" is receiving rave reviews around the world. Check out Cline's web-site (www.davidneilcline.com) or his IUMA site (URL available from David's "music" page on his web-site) to get more info and hear full-length MP3s of songs like "Malefic Influence", "First Reaction", and "Enforcer". The band is off the road and in the studio working on a 4th release, and plans to tour the US and Europe as soon as the new CD is out.
With their ball's-to-the-wall style and David's phenominal guitar playing, they are poised to make a huge splash on the music scene. The Skinny Devil's prediction? 2003 will be Cline's year! With heavy rock and the guitar solo making a comeback in popular music, David Neil Cline and his band may easily find themselves on the cutting edge if they play their cards right.
David Neil Cline - Thorough Scrutiny
"Thorough Scrutiny" is already the third self-financed release of US-Heavy
rocker David Neil Cline. On this cd David is again very much influenced by
Hard Rock from around 1980 with the spirit of the New Wave Of British Heavy
Metal. The songs also contain a little end seventies touch that comes from
the hammond organ. Sure - "Thorough Scrutiny" doesn't have only killer songs
but convinces the listener with a totally untrendy and self-confidential
style. But there's also an excellent earcatcher with "Queen Of The Skyways"
(a song about the fall of the Hindenburg) on the 53 minutes longplayer. The
ones who like the old stuff like Schenker, Gillan or Tygers Of Pan Tang
should definately listen to David Neil Cline. Contact: ....... (Hansy)
David Neil Cline - Thorough Scrutiny
It's almost never that you hear a record with this much depth into rock and roll/metal...the first second you hear it you know it's gotta be some old school veteran of metal...without a doubt. This album goes places that newer CD's don't- Its heavy classic rock influenced with traces of metal greats like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden...a strange brew indeed. This guy is a great guitar player too- blazing through leads--improv metal/blues...simply blazing. If you can make it past the first couple of songs you will hear the different variations...still within the basic roots, but taken different places. One song reminds me of COC- while another will just burst un-abruptly into an Maiden gallop double beat rhythm. The guitar work is amazing- touching into hints of doom lead riffs and dual overdubbed guitar harmonies...very tastefully done. Reminds me of the guitar player from late 80's era Candlemass Lars Johanassen crossed with the best of the 70's greats...hints of metal all the way through. This guy loves hard rock and is well saturated in the knowledge of its roots...all the way back I am guessing. Highway rock to say the least…It reminds me of the best parts of early Def Leppard too…it's all in there! I just can't believe that I haven't heard about this guy, he must have some sort of regional success… It is a great record, but many might consider it a guitar record...it is that, but also retribution for bad relationships...the lyrics are as important I think. Who really knows about what the artist is really thinking...in this case it makes it that much better. Get it if you want some simple classic old school rocker stuff. Really more than anything reminds me musically of old Judas Priest...oh hell, just get it if you really truly care about rock.
Review by: Rob Wrong
Living in Florida, I have had the opportunity to meet people from all over the U.S. at one time or another. Being from the Philadelphia area, I have also been very bias towards that area when it comes to the styles of rock and metal I listen to. I was therefore, pretty much not paying any attention when someone, who turned out to be a great buddy of mine, tried to tell me how cool the Detroit music scene was. He was always more of a dance and grunge dude and while I always will be a friend of his, what I was really thinking at the time is, "What the hell does this guy know about rock?" I guess he really was not lying to me though, because this indie I received from the Detroit area is smokin' through and through and it made me think twice about what my bud was always bragging on. David Neil Cline is packing a ton of talent. While a part of me thinks that his stuff is a little too dated for today's markets, I also hope that it helps to bring back this style of no computer oriented, kick-ass sound that makes rock the great thing that it is. I can honestly say that this one isn't for the computer\grunge crowd, but who cares…..I like it! I can also say that if you are not a fan of 80's sounding hard rock, this one isn't for you, but who cares…..I like it!
Cline completely bares his soul when it comes to his influences in rock, as I pretty much picked up on what he digs by listening to his CD. Just to name a few, I heard sounds that resembled everything from Boston to Deep Purple to Iron Maiden. If this kind of hard rock isn't exactly your thing or you think you're too cool for this kind of rock, too bad….I like it! Cline knows what he is about on the guitar and his vocals are not too bad either. I was pretty cool with most of the tunes on the disc and I was really taken with a smokin' (I mean really smokin") version of "Snortin' Whiskey" that was done live. The CD sounds crisp and tight, but still manages to keep the raw rock sound that I love so much marching through every tune. I guess I really need to reassess my opinion of the Detroit area when it comes to hard rock and I also think that one of these days I need to take up my buddy's repeated invitations to the motor city. I will just have to adjust that trip to coincide with a David Neil Cline show, as I would like to catch his act live one of these days. Who knows though, if guys like Cline continue to keep the guitar rock sounds alive, perhaps this great style will come back to the forefront where it belongs. Dave's tour could even show up in Florida where the tunes may be not as happening as the tunes in the motor city, but the weather is way better. If you want to check out more about this artist, be sure to visit his website, located at www.davidneilcline.com. I wish the best of luck to David and I hope to see his name in the big time soon. I also want to thank him for sending me a copy of his CD that won't be collecting any dust in my collection!
DAVID NEIL CLINE " Thorough scrutiny" ( Self released )
I have never heard anything about David Neil Cline until I received this album in my mailbox. "Thorough scrutiny" is the third David's record and this time the music got a bigger heavy metal spectrum than most of the records i reviewed through Zoopa loop. Bands that come to my mind when i listen to this record : Judas priest, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath with melodies and a bluesy touch. The first three tracks "Take it or leave it", "The fate of pain" and " Life under glass" are the kind of songs that 80's heavy metal freaks should dig. " The fate of pain" reminds me Judas Priest's Painkiller album with its razor riffs but David got a deeper voice than Rob Halford. David plays all the guitars, sometimes keyboards and do all the vocals only assisted by Mike Combs on backing vocals on "Take it or leave it". After the interlude 'Morpheus", the music becomes darker and heavier as the late Black Sabbath ( Tony Martin era ). " Miss Minority" is the best example of the mix between the melodies and the heavy riffs. I think that this mix is one of the forces of David's music, like if Yngwie Malmsteen would meet Zakk Wylde. The bluesy / rock touch is present on "Kassie Lane", " good for nothing", the Rory Gallagher's "Follow me" and the live track "Snortin' whiskey" a song written by Pat Travers and Pat Thrall. These tracks are for me the best of this album, because i like more rock than metal itself. "Thorough scrutiny" is in first a record dedicated to metal fans but the rock fans can find with the second half of the record some really cool stuff.
DAVID NEIL CLINE "Malefic influence"
"Malefic influence" is the second album from David's band. It was originally released on cassette and vinyl few years ago. Now it has been remastered to CD, so it's also a new chance to discover what David has recorded before "Thorough Scrutiny" his third and latest album. Now he is currently remixing his first record and working hard with its friends on their fourth record. The best way to describe David's music is to tell that it takes its roots with bands as Black Sabbath or Deep purple but with a very metallic approach in the sound ( close to Judas Priest ). Several times on the album, David plays Hammond organ so it increases the Deep purple color of some tracks ( " Governmental brainwash", "We just don't care", "A matter of time" ) but not really the 70's Purple era but more the "Perfect strangers" album. Sometimes the voice of David reminds me Dave Mustaine from Megadeth specially on "Suzy Homewreeker" the fastest song with "We just don't care". This album will appeal fans of bands i previously named, they surely like this well played metal rock. Songs as "Governmental brainwash", "Suzy homewreeker or "A matter of time" are bloody good ones. It gives to us a clear idea from where David's music comes from. But don't forget to listen to "Thorough Scrutiny" his last record that is actually his best album.
David Neil Cline - Through Scrutiny (Gazochtahagen Records)
Musician, David Neil Cline is back with a new CD entitled "Through Scrutiny." Aftehearing some of his previous music, I can say that this might be his best work to date. It is always good to see musicians improve themselves. David's music changes styles from song to song, but stays in an eighties style pretty much the whole album. From the acoustic to the heavy riffing, this disk screams 80's. It reminds me a little when I was growing up. Cline has taken a little different approach to this CD, adding weird sound effects, interesting keyboards, and some humor. I don't know if that adds anything to the disk, but it does kind of tie the CD together. The fourteen tracks and fifty-three minutes plus of music shows what this man can do. Track eleven, "50 Foot Woman," has an amazing solo, and if you want to find out if he can play, you need to check it out. "Morpheus" is a great acoustic guitar instrumental, which seems to be the albums only true break from the faster paced songs. Mr. Cline has brought forth the talent that should catch attention of some people. "Through Scrutiny" is a journey through the strange, yet up tempo. Will you be the next to take the journey?
David Neil Cline/ Thorough Scrutiny
David Neil Cline is apparently from Michigan, and as you can tell from his two first names, and the priceless portrait of him on the back cover (where he appears in a bandanna, sunglasses, and a tie-dyed tank top, lighting a cigarette with one hand holding a beer in the other), he's got a pretty down-home, laid-back style. No bullet belts, no corpse paint, no swords &endash; but on the whole I think metal fans will enjoy his stuff. Mr. Cline is a talented guitarist, and he's cut this album mainly to show off his prowess and to crank out a few downtuned, feel-good jigs. Is this metal? I think so. It is heavy. "Fate Of Pain," "Life Under Glass," "Kassie Lane" (one of the standout tracks) and several others on this 14-track album seem to scrape into metal territory. Don't get me wrong &endash; you will not see Mr. Cline wearing bullets, swinging a sword or screeching about butchered bodies anytime soon. But what he can deliver are catchy jams, excellent riffs, and a refreshing voyage into territory that a lot of metal fans don't visit very often. There's a hint of the Kyuss/Fu Manchu "stoner" or "desert metal" sound here, but I don't want to stretch the comparison to those bands too far. This is the kind of album where you don't really have to categorize it or say it sounds like Band X or Band Y. You just put it on, enjoy it, and that's pretty much it. David's vocals are a little grating at times. The production quality on THOROUGH SCRUTINY is sometimes uneven and disappointing. So it's not a perfect album. I don't think these drawbacks seriously detract from the listening experience. If you like listening to good guitar work (and what metal fan doesn't?), you will find at least something endearing about this album. I was very glad to receive this album (thanks Rick!) and happy to review something a little different for a change. The album certainly withstands my THOROUGH SCRUTINY and emerges with high marks. David Neil Cline may be more of a "fellow traveler" than a true dyed-in-the-wool metalhead, but he's welcome to come jam in my CD player anytime &endash; but he has to smoke outside on the balcony.
| Rating: 3/5 | Reviewer: Michael De Los Muertos
David Neil Cline/ Thorough Scrutiny
Very cool, guitar driven old school inspired heavy metal/hard rock. Bands such as DEEP PURPLE, UFO, SCORPIONS, MONTROSE, and even VAN HALEN come to mind, but these are blended with a taste of QUEENSRYCHE, MEGADETH and the mighty YNGWIE. Tracks I'm drawn to the most are "Queen Of The Skyways" and "Miss Minority." There's even a live cover of the Pat Travers classic "SnortinWhiskey." You just gotta love Jack and coke. On that note, all I can say is this disc ia keeper.
DAVID NEIL CLINE "Thorough Scrutiny" (Gazochtahagen Records) Rating: 80/100
Third album for singer/guitarist David Neil Cline who release a hot new dish with a greater focus on his artistic skills thru' 12 songs (more intro and outro) all worth of being listened to for the fans of powerful melodic hard rock.
Opener "Take it or leave it", introduced by a riff coming from Van Halen songbook, has several changes of atmospere and an anthemic refrain similar to Silent Rage, while the solo portion is clearly influenced by Iron Maiden era "Piece of mind". "The fate of pain" is an heavy metal track that will drive headbanging when played live, "Life under glass" moves towards the US hard rock of the '80s and is a song quiter than following and burning "Queen of the skyways".
The changeful "Miss Minority" is filled with the guitar virtuosisms of David who doesn't abuse of his dominant position and know how to serve the needs of a song.
In fact, he cuts two only tracks for his guitar in first ground, that are "Morpheus" (a short acoustic moment) and the shredding "50 foot Amazon".
There are also the ass kicking versions of "Follow me" (Rory Gallagher) and "Snortin' Whiskey live" (Pat Travers), delicious episodes that completes a good album with only one weak song, "First reaction".
DAVID NEIL CLINE THOROUGH SCRUTINY
Detroit rocker David Neil Cline has released his third CD, Thorough Scrutiny and it is a sure success. With 53 minutes of original heavy rock, Cline delivers his music in a professional manner, and he seems to do everything right. Thorough Scrutiny has all it takes to please every heavy rock fan: great guitar work, excellent vocals, mellow interludes and frenzied drive.
Although David Neil Cline has plenty of outstanding help on the CD, he is responsible for the vast majority of the music. He plays all guitars, including some clever harmonies. Ditto for the vocals where he sings lead and harmony. On several cuts he also plays keyboards and bass. Cline penned all songs with the exception of two of the CD's 14 cuts. The supporting cast primarily consists of J.D. Donnelly and Tom McConnell on bass with Dexter Arney and Jeff Giovannangeli on drums.
Thorough Scrutiny has a definite 1980s heavy rock flavor with allusions to Van Halen and Led Zeppelin. The Van Halen influence is not only evident in the music style but also in Cline's guitar style where most of his solos are in the form of short manic bursts. Cline does it all quite well and has delivered an enjoyable, stirring CD.
David Neil Cline distinguishes this CD from most others by using strange keyboard effects and offbeat comments between cuts. Although the entire CD is excellent, my two favorites are a long, rocking Miss Minority containing a guitar solo in harmony and a live cover of the Pat Travers hit, Snortin' Whiskey also with some outstanding guitar work.
With one caveat for an occasional four-letter-word, I recommend this strongly for fans of heavy rock. Thorough Scrutiny is available for $13 (U.S.A.) through the David Neil Cline web site where it and Cline's two previous releases
DAVID NEIL CLINE Thorough Scrutiny
Some say that the days of hard rock are over. Well, then why is DAVID NEIL CLINE still putting out CDs? Well? No, he's not in a time warp, and no, he's not reliving his past. People want to hear this. Why do you think half the radio stations in America play AC/DC three-hundred times a day? DNC does not sound antiquated at all, and the hard rock is mixed with an excellent melodic metal attack reminiscent of Iron Maiden. The three songs that make this CD for me are "Life Under Glass," "Miss Minority," and especially "The Fate of Pain." In these songs, there are things that remind me of IRON MAIDEN, KISS, KING'S X, DOKKEN, Y&T, and BLACK SABBATH, but all with the DNC twist to them. The only irritating thing about the disc is the varying production values of the songs. They were recorded piece by piece at different places and different times, and although the attempt was made to make them all sound similar, it fell short a little bit. Otherwise, this CD is excellent, but I usually only play it when I'm in the mood for something lighter with an edge.
Andrew
DAVID NEIL CLINE, Thorough Scrutiny
David Neil Cline is a name you will one day never forget and this Disc is a must have for all fans of solo artists with true talent. DNC is quickly becoming the next big thing as some might say, "Thorough Scrutiny" released on his own label Gazochtahagen Records is his finest work to date. The Tracks "The Fate of Pain" "Life Under Glass" and "Kassie Lane" Groove with total satisfaction as DNC's 70's sound fits perfectly for those who are looking for something truly different, an Alternative to the Alternative. Hats off to David as he will not conform to any rules put forth by Corporate America, by doing his own thing he knows his time will come as hard work always gets you where you want to be if you put your mind to it. For a taste of what else DNC can do check out his cover of Pat Travers "Snortin Shiskey" a true classic tribute by Mr. Cline himself. So keep your eyes and ears open for a Solo Guitarist who deserves a chance to shine. David Neil Cline's time is here.
Metal Mike.........................................8.5/10
David Neil Cline (U.S.)- "Thorough Scrutiny" (2001 self)
From the state of Michigan that brought Ted Nugent and Daniel Wentworth and quite a few other notables in the guitar industry is this unheard of wielder. Even though this CD is vocalized, the main meat in the platter is David's utilage of acoustics, "rockers" and a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. The 13 tracks provided is his 3rd release altogether and sport what I call "feel-good rock" and is easy to get into. Caught in the 80's realm, these tracks still support some great beefy riffs and charming leads to catch anyone's ear for the most part. Vocals are done by David as well and could be compared to Bad Company or .38 Special with music of that of another Michigan band Harder! Faster! with the Celtic Frost "Cold Lake" style. The guitar stuff ranges from Gillis to Lynch,Tipton and Sykes to give you an overall idea. i haven't heard any of the older material but DNC is defiately a seasoned player that grabs the listener quickly.
A veteran of the Detroit Metal scene, David has been forging his career since the 80's, with recent re-releases of EP's and albums that were previously only available on vinyl and cassette. 'Through Scrutiny' may have been released in the year 2001 but the material was written quite some time ago I believe, with some touch ups and re-recordings being made, resulting in this release. No holds barred, in your face heavy rock hits you from the outset of David Neil Cline's 'Through Scrutiny'. Apart from a couple of short interludes, the pace is pretty frenetic throughout, with the tracks veering from Van Halen, to Riot, to Black Sabbath drenched rockers. Not only does David give a sterling effort on guitar, he puts in a pretty good performance vocally as well. The material on a whole is good, but there are a couple of tracks that take centre stage. 'Take It Or Leave It' begins in very recognisable Van Halen fashion then switches effortlessly to a thumping Riot-esque mid section and finale. 'Queen of the Skyways' is a true metal anthem with more Riot references and David's soaring vocals fit in perfectly. I would have liked to hear David sing in this manner a bit more often, as I think it was his most accomplished vocal performance on the album. When David isn't singing he's usually showing why he is regarded as a guitar-hero with many searing lead breaks - listen to his rendition of Pat Travers 'Snortin Whiskey' for a perfect example. Production on the whole album is impressive for an independent release. Considering the age of the material on 'Through Scrutiny', it will be interesting to see if the new album David is working on will still have that distinct 80's hard rock feel, or if there will be any modern influences seeping through. I'm hoping for the former. - Luigi Cisaria
Rating: 8
The Northamerican guitarrist David Neil Cline is not a beginner in the field of music. At the age of fifteen he played the guitar in small local clubs and now in the 21st century is the owner of his own recording studio and label. "Malefic Influence", his second work published only in cassette and vinyl, has been rescued and remastered in CD to be quickly promoted and widen the market which was confined to the States before. His style, that was compared in his first album with Iron Maiden and Black Sabbath, has suffered a few small changes. Nowadays he has resembled the sound of the swedish Metal God Yngwie Malmsteen and the typical American Hard Rock bands such as Deep Purple, due to the major use of the Hammond. Besides we can find on this CD very heavy moments such as the blunt "We Just Don't Care", some others harder, almost glammies, such as "Crazy Dream". Solos at a lighting speed, deep rock feeling such as "I've been told" and wonderful mid-tempos such as "A Matter Of Time" at the end of the album. All of them are led by the versatile voice and guitar of David which also dares to play the bassguitar and the keyboards (incredible!). In short, if you are looking for huge diversity in the world of good Metal, of course this may be a good discovery for you.
David Neil Cline - Thorough Scrutiny
Gazochtahagen, 2001
"David Neil Cline continues to struggle against the commercial forces that decides what people should listen to or not. Just like before this album is full of classic 80's metal / hard rock riffs and this is why I like this guy so much. The music is playful but still very well performed and it makes you wish that you were living the 80's again because these were the golden days for all kinds of music, not just metal. Even though I and many others love the music on this album I feel a little sorry for David Neil Cline because he is heading against the wind of change these days. Don't let yourself be fooled by the real ugly cd cover of this album because the music is a thousand times better as you may already have guessed. David Neil Cline is a very talented musician and it would be a shame if people didn't realize this. "Thorough Scrutiny" is a great album for a hot summer day or a party any time during the year. If you want to get away from boring monotony and depressive noise this is an album for you. Just listen to a few of the songs and you know what I am talking about." (7.5/10)
David Neil Cline :'Thorough Scrutiny ' (azochtahagen) 'first reaction' First of all, check out the album's weird cover art depicting an egg cracked from out which pours an eyeball. Sick of The White Stripes already? This Casco, Michigan-based rocker is ready to go. After all, Nugent is too busy to talk anyway. On 'The Fate of Pain' DNC sends an soft acoustic guitar to greet us at the door, but then pushes us down into a smoky basement to hear a grinding axe attack along with classic rock chants like 'And then there's you!' On 'Life Under Glass' the powerful 6-stringer grabs the listener in the stranglehold for some arena-ready sound which is the whole tone with the exception of the neo-classical 'Morpheus.' On a serious side, DNC visits a horrible plane crash on 'Queen of the Skyways' but 'Miss Minority' once again pummels the ears with some wicked heavy lyrics like 'There ain't many girls like you' and rock requiems continue with 'Kassie Lane' and 'Follow Me,' which all creates crystal clear riff resolution. The solos in '50 Foot Amazon' are rapid fire rinforzando while 'First Reaction' leans on bar stools designed for speed metal. The finale is a live version of 'Snortin Whiskey Live,' which gives out some middle age naughty when a hot chick walks by. (JLH 7 `01)
David Neil Cline-"Thorough Scrutiny"-2001
DAMN! Didn`t anyone tell David Neil Cline that high precision axemanship is, according to the current media taste makers, "OUT"? It`s doubtful that DNC would listen anyway; Detroit Rock City`s finest has made a career of doing things his way, no matter what the trend of the day was! But David [notice how most of the cool people have that name? Not counting David Berkowitz, David Koresh....] is HARDLY one of those twinkle-toed, boring-as-hell shred heads; he likes his Rock HARD and his Metal HEAVY! And he has a sense of humor, something all those GIT clowns lacked in spades. On "Thorough Scrutiny" [his third release], I hear a lot of Deep Purple/Rainbow in many of his tunes; that`s right, these are songs, not excuses for 6-string masturbation! No sir, this guy has dirt under his nails, as well as a guitar tone that can kill small animals at 500 yards. From the Power Metal leanings of "Miss Miority" to the kick ASS cover of the Pat Travers classic "Snortin` Whiskey" [recorded live at the I Rock Nightclub in Detroit], and all points in betwen, David ROCKS with an intensity that few can match! [there`s also a great rendition of the late, great Rory Gallagher`s "Follow Me"] Why the HELL isn`t this guy famous? You can change this sad state of affairs by going to the link below and picking up this album, so do it NOW! [HUGE thanks to David Neil Cline for sending me the disc; first round's on me, `bro!]
David Neil Cline- Thorough Scrutiny
David Neil Cline is the epitone of the hard working, trying to make a living, not getting a break musician that the industry loves to snub.
And like a glutton he's back for more. This is D.C's third release which was actually recorded a year after the Malific Influence CD back in '92. However due to lack of finances the project was never released which afforded D.C the time and opportunity to go back and re-record some of the vocals, leads and hammond organ parts. So now to the music.. take a little Deep Purple, Iron Maiden, Michael Schenker and throw in Davids songwriting with their subtle influences and you've got Through Scrutiny. Queen Of The Skyways show case David's vocal talents and is one of the better songs on here. With 12 tracks including a cover of Snortin Whiskey from Pat Travers and another fave, Miss Minority, there's a little something to please the hard rock fan in all of us.
DAVID NEIL CLINE - "Thorough Scutiny" 3rd Album CD 2001
The great American guitar wizzard David Neil Cline finally released their 3rd solo effort on his own label Gazochtahagen Records, contain 14 tracks that combined between hard rock styles and heavy metal passages with his own blend comedy, strange synth effect also rock 'n roll guitar riffs, including intro and outro. Really makes this CD more interesting and less typical compared to the average hard rock album ever released, especially that have a pause between tracks. Very cool guitar riffs mixture hammond organ harmony also great vocals by himself, David's lead guitar works also fast, furious and wickedly brilliant even nicely done with accoustic guitar. Just imagine Frank Zappa approach mixture Van Hallen's & Kirk Hammet's styles and you'll know what to expect here. Go get it for 53 min 23 sec of total listen pleasure now!!!.
DAVID NEIL CLINE A Fit of Rage - Remixed plus two / Malefic Influence
Gazochtahagen Records
Originally released only on vinyl, A Fit of Rage has been remastered along with the addition of two new songs - which is definitely good news of course, granted that independent David's debut album has become somewhat of a collector's item. Malefic Influence, David's second album, is also enjoying a new lease of life with it being remastered and released in CD format as well. Musically, nothing these days quite compares to what David has to offer. Both CDs deliver a potent potion of powerful riffs, harmony and very serious music, ala 80s metal style of course! What really strikes me about the music though, is how it sounded on the recording. No, it didn't sound perfect and that's the point. It was very raw and the untamed crunch of the distortion was simply irresistible. Very nostalgic and very good for the soul. Analog fans understand this all too well. Personally, I prefer Malefic Influence to A Fit of Rage, though the latter does have some really good tracks to offer as well. Malefic Influence starts off with a very grand guitar intro that's not unlike music in the vein of Yngwie Malmsteen - which is probably why this album has been compared to the likes of the neo-classical guitar virtuoso. The similarity does however end abruptly though with most of the album flowing somewhere between the realms of hard rock and heavy metal. David is currently working on a brand new album which should be ready early this year (2001). Until then, I do suggest strongly to check out either of his re-releases since they really do bring to life, the excitement, the enchantment and the glory of the rebellious days gone past.
Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Chart Rating: 7.75 Review by Jason Goh
DAVID NEIL CLINE - Thorough Scrutiny (Gazochtahagen Records)
Hot on the heels of, um, the last one, the unfortunately initialled DNC is back for another go. And it's good to report that it's business as usual, but better. It's still fairly balls to the walls, seventies guitar rock, but with an added dose of Devins and Dweezils thrown in for good measure. In fact, the more I think of it, which is in itself unusual, the Devin comparisons seem ever stronger. Which is good. To vary the rawk onslaught DNC chucks in a couple of covers, Rory Gallaghers "Follow Me", and bravely or foolishly, the untouchable rock and roll classic that is Pat Travers "Snortin Whiskey". I tested it against my original 12" single, and DNC puts up a fair fight. Bonus points go to the extra work DNC has put in on the vocals, and you're left with a cracking album which rock purists should clutch to their chests with glee.
TEMPLES OF ETERNITY 'ZINE/METAL INVADER MAG/MUSICAL SUICIDES RADIOSHOW
DAVID NEIL CLINE-Thorough Scrutiny CD
(Independent Release)
In T.O.E. #6, there was featured a promo CD, including David's sample tracks from "Thorough Scrutiny" and I must admit that I expect his new album with great anticipation. Once again, David made a good job and, if you overpass the production problems (I expected a better sound on this album), then you will be able to meet fine Hard 'n' Heavy tracks with an intense 70's feeling (it is also the use of the hammond which "help" for comparisons like the one I mentioned). David's playing is aggressive and melodic at the same time, something that proves that has truly has the spirit of an authentic Hard Rocker! "Take it or leave it" sets the start, while "The Fate of Pain", Life Under Glass" (with a starting guitar riff ala Y&T-Meanstreak era!), the instrumental "50 foot Amazon", "First reaction" and more are really enjoyable tracks to listen to! But, once again I would choose "Queen of the skyways" as my favorite from "Thorough Scrutiny, since this particular song is really a master hit! I shall also not forget to mention the RORY GALLAGHER cover on "Follow Me", that reveals once again David's pure Hard Rock musical roots!
by Dimitris Starakis
DAVID NEIL CLINE - Through Scrutiny
David Neil Cline has over a decade of cult status as a passionate metal axe with a quirky edge. The long awaited Through Scrutiny continues the "formula" he visited on his last release Malefic Influence, with Jon Lord-esque keyboards brimming with steamy balls of heat, accommodating the energetic yet sophisticated melodic hard rock. This bares little resemblance to his first release, A Fit of Rage, which was more of a straight ahead wide-eyed metal battle cry.
One thing about Cline is his ability to achieve that bigger than life, timeless production that has far less of a technical sound, but one that breathes effortlessly. "Take It or Leave It" floats about stormclouds of analog wonder while "The Fate of Pain" follows up with an urgent razor sharp pummeling. Still, the early Nugent/Thin Lizzy vocal sound is thankfully presence. Very 70s in sound. That means it rocks righteously! Other standout tracks include metallic strut of "Kassie Lane" and the adrenalizing riff of "Follow Me."
Only a few tracks suffer from a slightly lopsided mix that favors the vocals a too much. With 14 tracks, there's bound to be some that do not live up to others, but all in all a very satisfying experience.- Brian Coles
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