Rock of Ages
If you find yourself singing along with songs like Every Rose Has Its Thorns and Can’t Fight This Feeling, you’re probably a Generation X-er, just like me.
And you may like this album.
Rock of Ages is the original motion picture soundtrack of the movie of the same title. Directed by Adam Shankman who gave you Hairspray, New Line Cinema’s Rock of Ages is a film adaptation of a five-time Tony nominated Broadway musical.
The album kicks off with Paradise City, a number that was popularised by Guns and Roses in the 80s’. But if you’re expecting something as edgy as the original, you’d probably be a tad disappointed. Sung by Tom Cruise – the man better known as Maverick in Top Gun and slick as a whistle in his Ray Bans – this cover was like pop soda without its fizz, honestly quite flat.
And still remember when you got inspired to pick up the acoustic guit? It’s probably cos of bands like Extreme with More than Words. Getting actress Julianne Hough to cover this gives this a different feel, but she does have a good voice.
The saving grace may’ve been Catherine Zeta Jones with Hit Me with Your Best Shot. Originally done by Pat Benatar in 1979, this cover was not too bad.
So overall, something’s missing from these covers. If you’re after an electrifying high, you may not quite get it on this album. What you may get is fairly decent music and a lot of good memories. So, catch the movie but you may wanna pass on the album.
I’m giving Rock of Ages 1 outta 5.
Watch my review of Rock of Ages on AM Live! Channel NewsAsia