Fu Manchu

Fu Manchu took a bit of a break from albums, not counting the Return to Earth singles compilation, before fully firing up again with King of the Road.

This album doesn't so much follow on from The Action Is Go as flat out continue it. Hill's vocals have a touch more bite this time around, but otherwise, there's little to differentiate the two records -- and that's meant as a compliment.

With plenty of touring and other experiences under their belts, the lineup has fully jelled and sounds it. Bjork's bad-ass drumming and occasional cowbells, along with Balch's insane lead guitar crunch, are possibly even better than ever. Together, it's all one megariff and nasty, slamming rhythm after another.