Hard Roxx, England (8/10 points):
Hotwire are a new band from Germany who seem to have been taken under the wing of ex-Bonfiire men Claus Lessmann and Hans Ziller who not only produced the album but provided backing accompaniment in the vocals, keyboard and guitar department. Not surprising then that there is more than a hint of Bonfire in the Hotwire sound, with a slighty softer touch. "Hotwire" is a smashing collection of ten disposable yet highly melodic lightweigth rockers that go easy on the ear, though at times Hotwire can be found guilty of bein a touch too polite. Each song has been lovely crafted into pop-kissed bouncy rockers or dreamy acoustic ballads. Werner Stadi's super smooth vocals are lavishly poured over the sharp punchy riffs and breezy rhythms that litter the album. Try "Crying in the night" on for site, with its highly infectious riff that echoes classic Bonfire, or the melodic overkill of "Heart of the young", each one a surefire winner. The big ballads are represented by "Lovin' kind", "Sometimes she cries" and "Listen to me", a trio of emotion drenched heartbreakers if ever I heard some, but it's classy wimp-hem rockers like "Talk To Me" and "Take Me To Your Heart" that really shine through to make "Hotwire" a most enjoyable album. So, a big tip of the to Messrs Lessmann and Ziller for the excellent involvement and for pointing Hotwire in the right direction. If this is anything to go by then the forthcoming Lessmann/ Ziller album will be an absolute stormer. Nice album cover too!!
Gordon Speirs

Right Between The Eyes, Canada:
This is without a doubt the hottest (no pun intended!) European release that I have received to date! Hailing from Germany, Hotwire have delivered an album that is rich in classic hard rock stylings which range anywhere from laterday Thin Lizzy, to Dokken and Warrant. For a European band, they have a very strong American sound to their music. Killer production, outstanding arrangements, and phenomenanl songwriting abilites are cleary evident throughout this exceptionally strong recording. Standout tracks include "Crying in the night", "Heart of the young", and "Listen to me". I'm very impressed. Expect Hotwire to be leading the pack of hard rock's resurgence! Mark St. John