With such song titles as "Baddest Ones Around," "We Are Loud," and "Rock Will Never Stop," it's easy to hypothesize that Fussion plays all-out, Motörhead-style high-volume metal. However, this trio prefers a midpace, relatively low-key sound that favors solos over ventures into double-time. Highlights include the Sabbath-style sludge of "What I'm Looking For," which features compliments such as baby, you're so fine and lady, you're so hot, and the menacing yet melodic "Bitch," which features much ruder lines, such as you bitch/that's not too smart. Steve Conley moves from mesmerizing classical guitar to slow, chugging riffs and back on "Runaway" and showcases his ability to solo Van Halen-style on "We Are Loud." Both Conley and bassist/singer Mike Kroos avoid the soprano vocals that plagued '80s metal, finding a comfortable middle ground instead of delving into the guttural groans favored by many of today's underground groups. Fussion is definitely a group designed for the avid guitarist, as novices might shrug at the same solos that would cause Guitar Player magazine subscribers to nod knowingly. But even if some will get much more out of Fussion than others, the album is accessible enough to appeal to even casual classic-rock-radio listeners.
