Machine-gun drumming kicks off “Lobotomy,” an adrenaline-fueled hard rock assault reminiscent of Adrenaline Mob (fittingly, that band’s guitarist, Mike Orlando, produces here). But this mob is heavy, man. They know how to deliver crushing riffs while keeping melody at the forefront, and frontman Coosh proves himself adept at shifting between the two.
A proudly independent band, Who On Earth takes aim at corporations on “DAWGZ.” You can’t hear this track without getting lost in its glorious solo, nor can you ignore the riffs of Bruce Greenwood. Tragically, Greenwood passed away after recording this album, but “Smoke and Mirrors” serves as a powerful epitaph to his talent.
“Voodoo” leans further into metal territory, but there’s a gang-like unity to this band—like if you take one on, you’re taking them all. Then there’s “Trash Talker,” a track written by guys who aren’t just bringing a knife to a gunfight—they’re bringing a full arsenal. If you’re the subject of these lyrics, you might want to skip town.
That metal edge rises to the surface even more on the superb “Yesterday’s Future.” If it sounds like Iron Maiden, it’s probably intentional—and they pull it off convincingly.
The album closes with a mighty cover of “Hold the Line,” and even here, you can’t ignore the raw aggression pulsing through their sound.
Who On Earth is only getting started for 2025, with plans to release new music throughout the year. With their debut album and now this, they’ve proven themselves a match for any hard rock band across the pond. New Jersey has produced some great rock acts—though none immediately come to mind (ahem!)—but if it has, Who On Earth belongs in the conversation.
Rating: 8.5/10
