Enuff Z’Nuff – ‘Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite’ [Album Review]

Propelled by all things poppy and punchy, catchy and crunchy, Enuff Z’Nuff has been a bona fide, authentic rock and roll treasure since first blowing in from the Windy City with their brilliant self-titled debut back in ’89. Unfortunate victims of their breakout timing, Enuff Z’Nuff never had much in common stylistically with aerosol-sprayed ’80s-era hair metal poster boys. However, they did (and still do) have everything in common with psychedelic-tinged ’60s-era power pop kingpins. In fact, they’ve been known for nailing Beatles classics for decades. Hence, their latest record should come as no surprise to longtime enthusiasts.

A heartfelt tribute to the Fab Four, Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite is a raw, live-sounding 10-track collection featuring a fistful of timeless Beatles classics, as well as a few iconic solo tunes from Paul McCartney and John Lennon. Leading the charge—band patriarch, frontman/bassist Chip Z’nuff, along with his current cast of co-conspirators; guitarists Tony Fennell and Tory Stoffregen, and drummer Daniel Hill. The result is a hit-and-miss affair.

“Magical Mystery Tour” has been covered tragically over the years by Cheap Trick, Styx and now Enuff Z’Nuff. A seemingly happy soundtrack to a sad trip, this one wants to sprint, but can’t move quicker than a THC-inspired chug.

Reflective of a lot of recent EZ studio work, John Lennon’s 1969 heroine-injected “Cold Turkey” works extremely well here, as does the 1966 Beatles staple, “Eleanor Rigby.” The 1973 Paul McCartney standard, “Live And Let Die” oozes signature-style EZ charm. More lo-fi, yet less pretentious than the famed 1991 Guns N’ Roses rendition, it delivers some blistering lead guitar work.

Enuff Z’Nuff

Additionally noteworthy, “Dear Prudence” is an honest remake that could have been a nice bonus track on 10 back in 2000. However, another White Album offering, “Helter Skelter” sounds sadly uninspired. The McCartney gem, “Jet” is a super-snug-fitting highlight, while “Revolution” feels a bit phoned-in. Conversely, “Back in the U.S.S.R.” is an extra-crisp, high-energy keeper.

Then there’s the record-closing pick of the litter — “With a Little Help from My Friends.” A soaring, epic-length success, this Sgt. Pepper standout not only is a record highlight, but also arguably an Enuff Z’Nuff career highlight—pop/rock-meets-gospel/soul at a George Martin love-in. Bravo!

In sum, Chip and the fellas “hit” more than they “miss” with this feel-good set—making for a worthy addition to the exhaustive EZ catalogue.

Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite Track Listing:

1. Magical Mystery Tour (5:07)
2. Cold Turkey (4:07)
3. Eleanor Rigby (4:19)
4. Live and Let Die (3:52)
5. Dear Prudence (6:16)
6. Helter Skelter (4:25)
7. Jet (3:50)
8. Revolution (3:42)
9. Back in the U.S.S.R. (3:14)
10. With a Little Help from My Friends (7:15)

Run Time: 46:01
Release Date: 11.12.21 (CD) / 12.10.21 (Vinyl)
Record Label: Frontiers Music s.r.l.