Album Review — Red Dragon Cartel

Red Dragon Cartel — Patina

Jake E. Lee is back with the second release from his band Red Dragon Cartel. “Patina” was released earlier this month and includes new members Anthony Esposito on bass and Phil Varone on drums as well as returning vocalist Darren James Smith.

The first thing that sticks out on this record is Lee’s guitar playing. It is both innovative and inspired and stands out on just about every track. The record is a combination of bluesy hard rock and old school Van Halen. The album has nice flow and there’s not a bad song on the record.

Highlights for me include “Havana” which sounds like it could be off one of the first two Van Halen records. Lee’s guitar sounds very EVH and Smith channels his inner David Lee Roth. “Bitter” is one of the first songs I heard off the record and features more strong guitar from Lee with more of a Stevie Ray Vaughn opening riff. Strong bluesy song with a catchy chorus. “Punchclown” features more fantastic work from Lee with a more melodic chorus.

The rest of the album is really good and Lee is out front without taking over. The first RDC album to me sounded a little more like Lee from his Ozzy days. I’d say this one is closer to the Badlands records. A little more bluesy but definitely rock.

Overall, another great end of the year surprise. A very good record that keeps getting better every time I hear it.

85 out of 100

Track Listing

1. Speedbag
2. Havana *
3. Crooked Man
4. The Luxury of Breathing
5. Bitter *
6. Chasing Ghosts
7. A Painted Heart
8. Punchclown *
9. My Beautiful Mess
10. Ink & Water

*Best Songs