Artist: Robin Brock CD Title: "Hidden Power" Reviewed by: Nick Martinelli Reviewed: 2/05/03

    Well folks we here at The Shred Zone aren't gender biased. We are happy to have another female rocker submit a CD for review. Canadian rock queen Robin Brock is an amazing song writer that knows how to compose total radio friendly rock tunes. She has an all star back up band including heavy metal bass monster Jeff Pilson from Dokken, Randy Bachman, and Tim Pierce. In addition, song writers and producers John Capek and Keith Olsen join in on the project. So without further delay lets dive into the chick rock world of Robin Brock.

    "I'm Doin' Fine" brings the album to a fierce start with a very powerful vocal performance from Ms. Brock. She belts out some soulful vocals and even more interesting lyrics. Something about a cheating boyfriend. I liked her song writing from the very first note. The team put together a super radio friendly rock song that you can sing and dance to. The guitar playing is excellent and defiantly carries the vibe of the song along. Don't forget the walking bass lines of Mr. Jeff Pilson either!

    "These Walls" is the hard hitting song on the record with its overly melodic musical tones and heartfelt vocals. The song is mainly a clean guitar driven piece, that is lead by Robins searing vocal performance. She has a true gift, and uses it to its fullest potential. If your looking to check out something fresh and surprising at every turn, please pick up an album from Robin. She sings with the emotion of angels. My favorite part of the song is the chorus line. The vocal melody is very catchy and it builds up the song's tension. The main lead really cranked. Its a short one, but doesn't forget the cup of soul.

    Song three "I Surrender" is an upbeat hard rock ready radio anthem. Robin's vocal performance is priceless. The chorus line, just rocks! I could just imagine being at a stadium concert singing along with the crowd. The guitar playing is superb as well, using clean chords and then more distorted riffing at the end of the chorus lines. Check out the main lead line for some inspiring lickin'!

    "In This Skin" is a slower tune with a peaceful melody line and a soothing guitar section. The lyrics are very well written and discuss what's really inside a woman. I know that's not much coming from a guy, and that's why you'll be reading a follow up interview with Robin Brock very soon! Overall the song is an just amazing piece of music. The main guitar lead is a soulful pentatonic jam, that is worth listening to a few times over. Robin's vocals are always the highlight of the song, she has great range and ungodly amounts of control. She can go from soft to powerful in a drop of a dime.

    Song five "After the Storm" is defiantly the MTV ready pop rock number we've been wanting for years! Robin's vocals are powerful and she pounds out her competition in a single note! The song was very well written, all guitar and bass parts lock together seamlessly. This band is really a super rock band. It just blows my mind what high caliber musicians can crank out together. Jeff Pilson's walking bass lines allow the song to groove along with a head bopping infectiousness. I also liked the lead breaks throughout the song. They really added some flavor the track's feel.

    So if your looking for a female artist that pushes the boundaries of modern rock music then Robin Brock is the woman for the job! In my opinion Robin is a mix Vixen, Lita Ford and the Bangels. I couldn't think of anyone else to compare her to. She beats the hell out of Alanis Morriset and Jewel that's for sure! Robin comes from the hard rock school of playing. She's no wussy! This chick knows how to rock and Roll! Robin, I give your the metal horn salute for, your amazing vocal performance and flare. This woman has range, soul, feel, control and a vocal presence that not all female artists have. I'm so glad we finally had an opportunity to review an artist at the caliber professionalism.