Graham Bonnet Band – Lost In Hollywood Again
(Frontiers S.R.L - 2025)
(Genre: Rock)
Never the obvious choice for Rainbow, his short hair and Hawaiian Shirts made it look as though Mr Blackmore had lost his marbles! 'Down To Earth', Bonnet’s sole Rainbow album was the launchpad for a very successful Rock career.
His vocal range made him a much sort after frontman. After his exit from Rainbow many would have expected him to come down to earth with a bang but instead Bonnet released the successful 'Line-Up' album which kept his profile high. He was joined on this by many guests most notably Jon Lord and Cozy Powell.
With him remaining in the spotlight, another mad axeman wanted his talents for his band, the less said about that the better, but suffice to say Bonnet’s outing for MSG’s 'Assault Attack', was another excellent album, but once again it was all over in a flash!
Alcatrazz followed with another crazy ego charged guitarist in the shape of Malmsteen, there would however be no quick escape this time, as Malmsteen quit to be replaced by Steve Vai, who himself lasted for just the 'Disturbing The Peace' album before the lure of Dave Lee Roth proved too much.
In came Danny Johnson who appeared on 'Dangerous Games', only to see the band go on a lengthy hiatus before reforming in 2020 for 'Born Innocent', this time Joe Stump brought the six-string sting. Another bizarre twist would follow as Bonnet quit what was basically his own band.
In the intervening years Bonnet was busy with other projects, most notably Impellitteri and Blackthorne. Bonnet is now 77 and remains active, his voice still able to thrill fans. This live album sees him play songs from across his career and demonstrates just what an outstanding frontman he is.
Just give it a listen, not only will you be impressed you will be amazed at just how many of the songs you know. ‘Since You’ve Been Gone’, All Night Long’ and ‘Night Games’ are obvious choices but far less so is the inclusion of Deep Purple’s ‘Lazy’ that has some tasty keyboards and gives the rest of the band a chance to shine. I can only think that the song appears as a tribute to the late great Jon Lord, whatever the reason it is one the albums highlights.
Graham Bonnet could not escape from Alcatrazz but he did escape from Skegness to become a vocal icon. He got ‘Lost In Hollywood’ but on him fell ‘The Eyes Of The World’. This live album is a celebration of the vocalist’s career. The fluid guitar work of Conrado Pesinato, the driving bass of Beth-Ami Heavenstone, the epic keyboards of Alessandro Bertoni and the precision and energetic drumming of Francis Cassol make this a memorable listen and showcases a band on fire. It was recorded and filmed at the world-famous Whisky a Go- Go in Los Angeles and captures the intensity of the night.
By Paul Mace