Nothing Lasts Forever
This follow-up EP to Tribe of Gypsies' wonderful debut is an interesting collection that almost lives up to its predecessor. On Nothing Lasts Forever, the group sticks to its established formula of instrumentally aggressive (if perhaps somewhat '80s-sounding) hard rock, spiked with a healthy dose of Latin rhythm. As is true throughout the group's catalog, the finer moments always arrive when the band -- led by guitarist Roy Z -- takes off on long uninterrupted instrumental excursions. Z always leads the way during these musical highlights with his aggressive soloing and warm tone, but everyone contributes. Edward Casillas (bass), Mario Aquilar (timbales and percussion), Dave Ingraham (drums), Elvis Balladares (percussion), and Dean Ortega (vocals) do excellent jobs with their respective instruments. Although Z's technically daring guitar work always takes center stage, every bandmember plays with obvious attention not only to the music but also to each other, which makes for a warm, organic listening experience. The three original English-language cuts on Nothing Lasts Forever seem rushed lyrically, which is only a slight drawback considering the musical focus of the band. The sentiments do seem heartfelt, but a few less obvious lyrical images and rhymes would have done better justice to this otherwise impressive recording.
Vincent Jeffries, All Music Guide
The Atomic Chaser
Proving that their smashing debut release was no fluke, Los Angeles based band, Tribe Of Gypsies release, "Nothing Lasts Forever", a six song E.P. that, even though short, it still packs enough power to make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. The band features guitarist Roy Z. and a group of musicians that provide the band with a solid foundation. Vocalist, Dean Ortega is the man that brings the songs to life with his smooth and soothing voice, but without a doubt the driving force behind the band is Roy Z. His guitar style is one that combines tantalizing solos with rhythmic chops that will simply hypnotize you. On songs like the power driven rocker, "Gangland" and groove laden mover, "I'm A Man". The band delivers their version of the Peter Green song, "Oh Well", in grand fashion. One listen to Roy Z.'s guitar work on this song will send chills up and down your spine. The band delivers a latin influence brand of rock music in the tradition of bands like, MALO and SANTANA with a present day sound. One thing that is obvious when you listen to Tribe Of Gypsies, this is a band that has musicians that are simply awesome and they know how to deliver. Tribe Of Gypsies, definitely a band that any rock fan would love to hear.
The Atomic Chaser
Hard Roxx magazine
For those of you who remember my review of TOG's debut last year, you are well familiar with the band, or at least you should be. For those of you new to them, they are a latin-fused band from L.A. featuring the massively talented Roy Z (ex Driver, Bruce Dickinson) on guitar and the equally talented Dean Ortega (ex Neverland) on vocals. This, their newie, is a Jap only six track EP serving up more Santana tinged tunes. The title track "Nothing Lasts Forever" is loaded with latin percussion and conga drums and builds into a beautiful tune giving Dean Ortega a chance to really strut his vocal chops. "Gangland" nods appreciation to Stevie Salas in its approach and gives the listener the opportunity to see musically, just how tight these guys are as a band. I personally would love to see these guys. I know the Japs were lucky enough to see them open for Bruce Dickinson. What a treat! "Turn Around" is the front and centre point of this record. Tons of swirling Carlos licks from Roy Z, loads and loads of those awesome latin percussions and those killer Dean Ortega vocals. The rest of the EP finishes out with some superb covers in the form of Stevie Winwood's "I'm A Man" and Peter Green's "Oh Well" which is particularly moving.
This band is not to be taken lightly. Buy.
Rating : 8.5/10 - Tom Coyne, Hard Roxx #27, November 1997.
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