It is not often that an American band breaks over here in the UK before it does so in the USA.

Jesse Evans and The Crash are not an ordinary band though. Initial promo copies have found their way onto the turntables at Total Rock and have established them as a firm favourite very quickly.

This gritty debut offering will become a very important album this year and will lead them to a major record deal in record time.

It is a mixture of brash blues ballads and driving guitar rock.

The first thing that you notice is just how real and well balanced the set is. Each song has been well crafted and it is obvious that they benefit from having a proper producer who has stamped the bands trademark all over the album. Even down to the mastering at Sterling sound, they prove that they take their music very seriously indeed.

Opening with 'To Be Loved', a good a basic rock and roller, they ease into 'My World is Changing' which showcases great harmonies and backing singers. The sudden change of pace into 'Coldheart' is welcomed and the strains of what could so easily be Paul Rodgers and early Free are soothing and emotive.

This track has already been singled out a radio play favourite and the lyrics come into their own.

As you progress through this excellent album it is 'Coldheart' that is responsible for drawing and keeping the listeners attention on the words.

Evans sings songs which are sooo Nooo Yooork, songs drenched in lost love, a non too healthy lifestyle (fortunately in Jesses' past now) and just getting out there and making the most of life.

The anthem that is 'Bad Love' sums up the sadness contained within the album.

Just when you think you've got the album and the band worked out they kick into 'Gasoline' - an awesome rocker. Perhaps 'Gasoline' is the cleansing agent they need to burn away the blues, it almost signifies a new start for the band.

If the follow up release is half as good as this debut,then Jesse Evans, Brian T. Coady (bass) and the irrepressible Steve 'Budgie' Werner on drums will have no worries anymore about the rising price of gasoline.

Released byTrigger Happy Music Co.

Review by Paul Newcomb