UDR Records has released a tribute album in honor of the late guitarist Randy Rhoads titled Immortal Randy Rhoads: The Ultimate Tribute. Tracks contained on this release feature songs that Rhoads co-wrote either with Ozzy Osbourne or Quiet Riot.
Musicians contributing to the album include Rhoads’ brother Kelle, current Ozzy guitarist Gus G., Testament’s Chuck Billy, Dweezil Zappa, former Dokken guitarist George Lynch, Children of Bodom’s Alexi Laiho, and former Judas Priest singer Tim “Ripper” Owens. Listen to the album above via YouTube.
Musician Rudy Sarzo handled the bass duties as per producer Bob Kulick's direction. Sarzo performed with Rhoads during his time in Quiet Riot and with Ozzy. In speaking with Billboard, Sarzo shares what makes this album so special to him:
I had a wonderful time going down memory lane and revisiting all those wonderful songs. But what I find most special about this record is that not only are we celebrating Randy's Ozzy era legacy, but also his Quiet Riot legacy.
Highlights include "Crazy Train," "Mr. Crowley," and "Suicide Solution." While all the musicians do a fine job on this tribute album, Randy Rhoads' one-of-a-kind energy is clearly missing. Lackluster vocal performances and a lack of creativity hold this record back from being anything more than a solid tribute. After you've listened, you may gain a greater appreciation for the original recordings that made Randy Rhoads a legend in his day.
Immortal Randy Rhoads - The Ultimate Tribute is available on Amazon (Vinyl, CD).
Source: UDRmusic YouTube