Strap in for a blistering rock experience from Dutch trio, Millstöne!

Their debut album, ‘Down and Dirty’ makes a strong first experience. Forged in fiery grit, personality and style, their music features powerful riffs, thunderous drums and hell-raising vocals, they are staking their claim to be the heaviest to do it since legends like AC/DC, Motörhead, and Rose Tattoo.

The opening track, ‘Wild and Untamed’ is exactly as that. Thrilling riffs, pulsating basslines and crashing drums make for a fantastic intro that’s bound to get your juices flowing. The vocals, nonchalant and passionate in equal measures, croon about that head-turner of a woman who’s got his heart in a twist. The intensity of the riffs is relentless, building tension and holding it fantastically. At over 6 mins, ‘Wild and Untamed’ is a stunning opening testament to the group’s endurance. They don’t let up the heaviness at all; in fact, what we enjoyed is how they patiently build anticipation with power-packed instrumental passages, driven on those epic riffs. What a start!

Next up, we have the title draw, ‘Down and Dirty’ that switches the tempo to more measured classic rock riffs. The intensity is very much simmering just underneath the surface, just with a lot more personality and groove now. The basslines are more pronounced and the lyrics are particularly suggestive and continue the theme of infatuation, lust and untamed desire. A fun, raunchy rock track that’s amplified by wild ecstatic guitar solo and vocals that evoke a sexual euphoria like no other.

‘Man of Sin’ dials up the intensity and evokes a wild, unrestrained energy. What stands out here is the excellent musicianship and sync between the performers. This track has a noticeably upbeat and liberated vibe, like a man who’s wholly come to terms with his wild sinful ways and wouldn’t change a thing about it!

‘She’s a Fulltime Job’ swerves into slower, blues-tinged riffs. The tone is one of whimsy, impatiance and a bit of humor. Bouncy basslines create a sense of intrigue as the lyrics seem to unfold an uncertainty and a bit of worry of dealing with a lady who’s driving him crazy around the clock. Its like the stage of a relationship where the fiery passion is waning and the weight of the other’s baggage begins to tell.

‘I’m No Good’ sees Millstöne return to force with determination and resolve in their eyes. A bare-it all expression of individuality as the vocals croon, ‘I’m No Good, but im good at it!’

An attempt to set things straight in the messy situation, ‘Save My Soul’ evokes a despairing energy. Grasping at straws to escape a crushing pressure of living beyond one’s means.

‘All In (All Night Long)’ feels like a comeback. A comeback to those wild, untamed nights. Punchy riffs, upbeat rhythms and uplifting harmonies that have you singing along to ‘All Night Long’!

The final track, ‘My Kind of Woman’ has an unmistakably love rock ballad feel. The vocals highlight every little thing about her that drives him to wild lengths. A relatively laid-back, relaxed, passion-packed ode to that special lady whom the vocals proudly claim to have everything he’s ever desired.

Millstöne is a raw, loud, unapologetic rock and roll power trio—straight out of the Netherlands. No pretentious concept albums. No avant-garde artsy nonsense. This album amply backs this statement. Plug in for a pulsating, evocative classic rock experrience!

Stream Down and Dirty on Spotify: