Violent Storm was started by Mick Cervino (Ritchie Blackmore, Yngwie Malmsteen), who wrote most of the music and lyrics for the band's debut album and also plays guitar and bass. Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing executive produced the album and contributed some guitar solos. Guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen also guests on a couple songs.
Storm Warning is traditional metal with a lot of melody and a bit of a retro vibe. The guitars are front and center, and the guest solos by legends such as Downing and Malmsteen give the band a little more gravitas. Cervino is one of the best bass players in the business, and although his playing here is excellent, it would have been nice to showcase it a little more.
Violent Storm's vocalist is Matt Reardon, who has a mid-range voice with a little edge to it. He has a nice tone and fits in well with the band's style. This is a solid album that wraps up with a cover of the Blackmore's Night song "Storm."
