Fucking love it. I just got it today. I was really afraid that this was going to be a light poppy VH. But this collection of new songs picked up where Fair Warning left off.
In my opinion this is all Eddie. ‘Tattoo’ is not representative of the rest of the songs here. DLR’s vocals on the remaining songs are mostly just another background instrument - which is a good thing.
I’ve only listened through once so far but I’m liking it. The DVD bonus is way too short but still it’s cool to see EVH play ‘Panama’ on an acoustic guitar.
I agree. “Tattoo” is one of the weakest songs on the album. My favorites so far are “She’s the Woman,” “Chinatown” and “Beats Workin’.”
Eddie’s playing is on fire and it’s clear the album is all about him, although Alex shows his drum chops on a number of tracks. Eddie dances close to the wanking line but pulls it back just in time. It’s obvious the brothers were inspired on this album. Too bad Roth is singing. Don’t get me wrong, Roth’s singing is pretty good here, but for me Van Halen was never about the singer.
Overall, if you’re a fan of early Van Halen you’ll like this album.