After a far too long absence (once again), Z Rock Records return to the (melodic) hard rock market with this here debut album from Watchmen. This band hails from Argentina (of all places) and has been described as a mix of Badlands, Burning Rain and Whitesnake. Although the ten tracks on offer don’t sound as bluesy as the material from these bands, I can easily understand where the comparisons come from.

Lead vocalist Ivan Sencion can/must probably be ‘accused’ for that. He’s in possession of a strong voice not that far away from Ray Gillen, Keith St. John and/or David Coverdale and performs the melodic hard rock songs in a way all of his own.
Albums that are hyped too much are always carefully listened to by yours truly, but in the case of Watchmen I have to admit that they have come up with an interesting – though not essential – debut. A pity not all the songs are of an equally high quality as “Safe” (which is almost AOR!) and “Man In A Hole” (straightforward rocker), but there are plenty enough other tunes that can ‘steal’ your interest. Watch out for Watchmen!