Wanted – Cutting Edge

Wanted
Cutting Edge
Label: Eönian Records
Out: June 27^th, 2025
Playing time: 41:08

Formed in 2021, WANTED is driven by a singular mission: to reignite the fire of the loud, melodic hard rock, and classic metal that once dominated arenas and airwaves. 

I always have to smile when I read such strong words. The musicians are obviously influenced by legends like Van Halen, Ratt and Dokken. That’s quite a statement. The band from Michigan has already released three albums. Most recently ‘Cutting Edge’ in June of this year. So, they are highly productive. Let’s find out whether the advance praise is correct.

Fast and riff driven. The album starts with the title track ‘Cutting Edge’. It is accompanied by Metal screams and high-pitched vocals. A doomy intro reminiscent of Black Sabbath introduces ‘Override’. This is followed by a rhythm that is simply thrilling with a sing-along refrain. ‘Power’ starts quietly before the riffing and powerful drumming kick in. The tempo is slowed down a little on the vocals. A catchy song with polyphonic choruses. The catchy, almost mainstream-rooted “Wasted Heart” is just crying out to be played on heavy rotation on Rock radio stations. A calm and contemplative ballad follows with ‘Chained To Your Love’. Guitars can be heard discreetly, some of which are already singing. There is also a really strong guitar solo. The song ends with a short fade out. Also absolutely suitable for airplay. With “Armed For Action”, the contemplation is over. The guitars are roaring; the drums are booming. The guitar solo is fast and loud. ‘Take Me Away’ is a real Metal stomper. Once again, it’s riff-heavy and has a driving rhythm. ‘Feel Your Rhythm’ first has to develop after the drum and bass introduction. The song is calmer than the previous bangers. Wanted show that they can write very varied songs. In contrast, “Knock It Down” swings into Speed Metal realms. Double bass attacks, chorus vocals and a huge guitar solo characterise this song. Quiet, clean guitars introduce ‘Prowl Alive’. But then we hear a small increase in tempo. Until a ticking mid-tempo rhythm becomes dominant.

The footsteps of the bands mentioned at the beginning are almost huge. But Wanted fill them brilliantly. These are a little more than forty minutes of the finest Hard Rock and Metal with an eighties flair. ‘Cutting Edge’ should be a must for all fans of this glorious era.

WANTED – Armed For Action: https://youtu.be/TYHPAy1m57I?si=0bG1e7uydOqTj0TY

Lineup:

Sterling Primeau – Lead Vocals
Alan Mares – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Christian Shonts – Rhythm Guitar
Paul Slezak – Bass
Chris Rajt – Drums

Track list:

• Cutting Edge
• Override
• Power
• Wasted Heart
• Chained To Your Love
• Armed for Action
• Take Me Away
• Feel Your Rhythm
• Knock It Down
• Prowl Alive