The Answer: New Horizon

Like many hard-rock Irish bands, The Answer are prophets not much recognised in their own country. Their heavy blues shtick with a strong tinge of Americana and echoes of Led Zeppelin has built up a respectable following, mostly outside Ireland. Their first album (Rise) had a huge push off the back of a support slot for AC/DC. New Horizon, their fourth album, finds them in familiar territory. The twin axis of lead singer Cormac Neeson and guitarist Paul Mahon remain the mainstay of a group that refuses to bend with the whims of contemporary music. The title track opener showcases The Answer's strengths, as a menacing guitar intro finds Neeson reaching successfully for the high notes. Sticking rigidly to the blues milieu has its weaknesses, however, and there's not enough variety in their sound to engage casual listeners, though Call Yourself a Friend has a beautiful acoustic intro that presages a song of bitterness and regret. New Horizon won't lose The Answer any fans, but it's unlikely to win them many new ones either.theanswer.ie