REVIEW: HAZZARD – Hazzard

 

HAZZARD – Hazzard

Mausoleum Records

I imagine everyone from my generation is familiar with the Dukes of Hazzard, but I’m not quite sure how many of you know the band Hazzard led by Herman Frank—yes, that Herman Frank from the heavy metal gods, Accept. This short-lived project existed between 1982 and 1985, leaving behind only one self-titled album released in 1984 under the legendary Mausoleum Records. So, while most of the world was out flying kites yesterday for Clean Monday, I decided to stay grounded and give this record a spin.

If you’re expecting to hear something identical to Accept, you aren’t exactly wrong, but you aren't 100% right either. Naturally, a musician’s core style doesn't just disappear, but here Herman had the freedom to experiment with different sounds. I’d describe it as more melodic hard rock that never quite strays from its heavy metal roots. There are definitely more "Americanized" moments on the record, like "Nothing at All," which shows a clear affection for Van Halen—go ahead and Jump for joy, pun absolutely intended. Yet, the album still finds time for its high-speed moments, retaining that signature Teutonic bite in tracks like "Satisfied."

To bring this vision to life, Herman assembled a solid crew of musicians. He tapped British vocalist Malcolm McNulty, who had a background in the NWOBHM band Weapon and later joined Sweet, alongside Wolfgang Hettmer on bass, Günter Sander on guitars, and Dieter Schmier on drums. The result is a record that is very easy to listen to and well-written, featuring standout compositions such as "Moonlight," "Just a Dream," and "Killer." It is also worth noting the production value of the era; for a 1984 Mausoleum release, it carries that specific raw but punchy European charm that modern digital remasters often lose, perfectly capturing a moment when heavy metal was deciding whether to stay in the garage or move into the arena.

Ultimately, if you go in expecting the top-tier quality of Accept, you might leave a bit disappointed, as it doesn't quite hit those legendary heights. However, it remains a very strong example of melodic, slightly American-influenced hard ’n’ heavy. It is a hidden gem that deserves a spot in the collection of any fan who appreciates the evolution of the 80s metal scene.

Nick Parastatidis