THE DUKE - My Kung Fu Is Good

The lead release off the re-launched Spitfire Records (Eagle Rock Entertainment) label is by Rich "The Duke" Ward of Stuck Mojo and Chris Jericho's Fozzy. "My Kung Fu Is Good" stunned me with a melodic modern rock approach that is actually refreshing and enjoyable to listen to.

Musically, Ward has taken a detour from the heavier bands he plays with. The songs are of a modern rock vein and are definitely radio friendly. Vocally, Ward tends to call to mind Anthony Kedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers sans the funky intonations. Lead track "I Give To You" is very hook-laiden and would fit it in any active rock stations' play list. "Immune" is also a catchy track that would need to clean up a verse in the middle of the song for airplay. "Used To Be" is another modern rocker that has a feel good vibe while "Summer" is a very breezy track with hints of the Beatles.

"Running" is another very crafted rock song that has a very 70's feel to it, ala Jay Ferguson's solo material. "Breathe" is a piano ballad with very hushed tones. "At This Moment" also has a 70's vibe to go along with a chorus that sounds like it came out from "Infinity" era Journey. It is an excellent track to close out the CD.

The songs are very personal in nature to Ward and it definitely shows throughout the disc in the honest feel and delivery. Another fact to point out is that Ward's vocals are very good. Typically, I avoid most modern rock releases at all cost but Ward doesn't go for the typical modern rock vocal mumblings, remembers that riffs and guitar are allowed and most importantly writes songs with excellent hooks. The Duke has come through with a quality rock release.