Van Halen - "Tattoo"

Let's take a little break from the 2011 countdown and talk about Van Halen

The music world is abuzz about the return of the (kinda) classic line up of Van Halen, and their new song "Tattoo". Check it out here:



Overall, this song is pretty disappointing. The thing that made Van Halen interesting was they were dangerous. Rock and roll, especially the beer-fueled, testosterone laden arena rock that Van Halen espoused, should be menacing. The band was burly, theatric and, more importantly, listenable. And, their appeal went beyond the casual rock fan. Eddie Van Halen was legitimately one of the best guitarists in the world at one time, and appreciated by both serious and casual music fans. Alex Van Halen was a decent drummer. David Lee Roth's theatrical stage persona was perfect for drawing in a casual listener. But, where has this band gone?

This new version of Van Halen is the first time that Roth has recorded with the Van Halen brothers in more than 25 years. Given the volatile nature of their relationship over the years, there was potential for something dramatic to happen, something to spark the creative juices and make their music dangerous again. Something far from the radio-friendly rock that Sammy Hagar's years as singer brought to the band. But that hasn't happened. "Tattoo" is just limp.

First, Eddie's guitar playing is pedestrian. There's no virtuouso style solos, no burning, driving guitar punch. His playing here is merely competent. he sounds like very other rock guitarist around. Same with Alex, his drumming lacks flair and he seems just to be keeping a beat. David Lee Roth's singing is on par with his early work with the band, but the theatrics are gone. No high kicks, just jazz shuffles. It's sad really.

Rumour has it that the rest of the coming album is more gritty, but I can't see it from this early single. You're supposed to lead with your strengths. If this is the strongest song on the album, the rest should be very underwhelming