ALBUM REVIEW: Mr Big - Ten

Mention Mr Big in my circles and talk will inevitably focus on their storming performance at Bloodstock Open Air Festival in 2018. Usually dismissed by those into the more extreme styles of music, it’s undeniable that the band holds legendary status amongst many whose tastes may veer towards the hard rock style. 

There’s plenty of history to the band, but in summary, they formed in 1988 with a line-up that comprised Eric Martin, Billy Sheehan, Paul Gilbert and the late Pat Torpey. Four names that should be recognised by anyone who claims to like hard rock and metal. An initial break-up in 1997, was followed by the departure of Gilbert (replaced by Richie Kotzen before the band ceased due to internal conflict in 2002. Reforming in 2009 the band then released a couple more albums before Torpey passed in 2018. 

Although the band have played many shows since then, this is the first album since 2017’s Defying Gravity. With respected drummer Nick D'Virgilio (Tears for Fears, Sheryl Crow, Kevin Gilbert, Peter Gabriel, Genesis, Spock’s Beard and Big Big Train to name just a few), Ten is the band’s tribute to their late drummer, and is released as they are in the middle of their final tour, dubbed 'The BIG Finish’. Eric Martin’s view on Ten is clear. “This new album doesn't copy anything from the nine previous studio records it’s all new stuff from scratch. this is raw, unadulterated riff rock and blues with all the Mr. Big trimmings”, whilst Gilbert provides the meaning behind some of the lyrics. “Overall, it’s about being overwhelmed with life, and realizing that you won’t win many of the battles, but still fighting to the end. And keeping a sense of humour about it by saying to anyone nearby, 'Wish me good luck trying!'" 

Recorded live in the studio and apparently on the tour bus as they traversed the globe, Ten comprises ten highly crafted songs that highlight the proficiency of these talented and respected musicians, with an extra European bonus track for good measure. There’s no doubt that Mr Big has a sound that works. The songs have hooks aplenty, Martin’s vocals play to his strengths given the impact that age has on singers vocal cords these days, whilst Gilbert, Sheehan and DiVirgilio exude that confidence that comes with years of experience. Sheehan’s little bass flourish at the end of As Good as It Gets is just one example. There’s a decent amount of variation included in the album. Opener Good Luck Trying draws from the Blues Rock of the 70s, whilst What Were You Thinking has a punchy, irresistible groove that gets the foot taping and allows Gilbert opportunity to show why he’s so highly regarded on the six-strings. 

Whilst the band excel when the tempo is high, there’s plenty to enjoy when they switch it around a bit. Courageous has a sleazy swagger that carries over into Up on You, and it’s at this moment that you know that come their special guest slot at Steelhouse Festival at the end of this month, you’ll be fighting to control your hips from grinding along to the infectious vibes that these guys produce. Throw in the bonus track 8 Days on the Road, which does sound like a classy demo salvaged from the cutting room floor, and you’ve got an album that provides a fine finale to a band who are much loved by many.

Ten is out on 12th July via Frontiers Music

Review by Hutch