Dirty Dynamite

Switzerland's Krokus was once considered a metal band, but as the definition of metal constantly leans harder, Krokus is perhaps best classified as a hard rock band in the AC/DC vein. The group began its journey in 1974 and has weathered the fashions ever since, hitting a commercial high point in the '80s when hard rock bands with metal accents were all the rage. Album No. 17—Dirty Dynamite—sticks to what Krokus does best: power chords, drum patterns that keep it simple, and howling vocals. The opening one-two punch of "Hallelujah Rock n' Roll" and "Go Baby Go" would fit comfortably on any of its albums (or AC/DC's), and despite the song titles' generic quality, the playing is inspired enough to make the tracks car-worthy. "Rattlesnake Rumble" captures the vaguely boogie-blues end of Krokus' sound, while the title track is a strong barroom rocker. A power ballad rendition of The Beatles' "Help!"—complete with arpeggiated opening guitars—is a bit much. Best that Krokus sticks with its own tunes, where the band better understands what's classic about its kind of rock.