There is a great story with SWEET CYANIDE that all started back in high school with Sal Scoca and drummer Peter Santagada who were big fans of SAIGON KICK. The band started as a SAIGON KICK rip-off band and recorded twenty tracks never imagining that one day SWEET CYANIDE would become a reality. Scoca went onto to CRASHBOX and had a thriving career. Eventually thoughts came from Scoca of resurrecting SWEET CYANIDE with CRASHBOX bassist Angelo Fariello and two members of MOMENT THEORY (drummer Mike Bambace and guitarist Joe Salvatore) and adding additional vocals of the sweet nature, with female vocalist Lindsay Benjamin rounding out the band.

Their self-titled debut release has just hit the stores with a hard-hitting alternative rock sound. In the vein of bands like HINDER yet bringing a style of power pop of the early eighties. The first track that stands out is “Suicide Love Machine” that has a flare of the great early 80’s music with kickin’ harmonies and strong lead vocals by Scoca. What really excites me is second vocalist Lindsay Benjamin that brings a soulful style into the mix. .

“Black & White” brings another style to SWEET CYANIDE with hints of T. REX yet moving with an updated band named THE VINCENT BLACK SHADOW. The music feels like I’m on the carousel at a flashback carnival.

“Certain Shadow On The Wall” is just an amazing tune with strong harmonies ala MAMA’S AND THE PAPA’S yet the dynamic vocals of Scoca bringing back memories of Cabaret even kicking it up a notch with the Kazoo.

Another pounding tune is “Heart Breaker” where the guitar by Scoca and Joe Salvatore turn up the volume with some great solos; definitely a great radio tune that has the new wave sound of the CLASH. Song after song by will amaze you. Check out “I Wish U Would” a song in the spirit of THE BEATLES meets THE HOLLIES. Love the track!!!

Ending in fine style; “When We Were Young” brings out the acoustics for a mellow ballad that is reminiscent of vintage vinyl with crackling and all, even bringing back memories of old town Italy with the guitar.

What a great CD, pick this one up!

Also, be sure to check out our interview with singer/guitarist Sal Scoca from back in 2006.