Samantha 7 is Poison Lead Guitarist's C.C. DeVille's new project, and with it C.C. serves up an array of catchy, melodic, Punk-rockers. To C.C.'s credit, Samantha 7 is quite different than Poison. If anything, it's actually similar to The Offspring, only with better guitars. As a big Rock star, C.C.'s been to Hell and back and this record proves that he still doesn't take himself too seriously, as this is a fun record with somewhat ironic lyrics. Just check out the catchy "I Wanna Be Famous," "Slave Girl," and the Beatlesque "Bad Day" to sample the irony.

C.C.'s always been a good songwriter, having penned most of Poison's big hits. That trend continues here as most the songs on this CD are well written and hook-filled; check out "Framed," "Hanging Onto Jane," and "Hollywood & Vine." This CD should definitely be getting some Rock radio airplay as it touches the "modern rock" genre while still remaining guitar-oriented. And C.C.'s guitar playing is still sounding good, as proven in the solos for "Cover Girl" and "Golden Days and Rain."

Joining C.C. are Krys Baratto on bass/vocals and Francis Ruiz on the drums, and they do a solid but uneventful job. C.C.'s vocals are OK, nothing to write home about, but not bad either. The production is well handled by one Jack Blades of Night Ranger fame.

So with Samantha 7 you'll get melodic guitar hooks, rippin' leads, and a good dose of catchy Punk Rock. Oh, and plenty of C.C. DeVille - what else can anyone ask for?

Shred Pick - "I Wanna Be Famous" (2:49)

Reviewed by Henry Bocanegra

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