U.D.O.
Thunderball

December 2004
Released: 2004, AFM
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: JP

Year-end wrap-up: Each of the last few years to wrap up the year I have picked a theme for my reviews for December. This year due to the overwhelming number of CD’s that deserve exposure, recognition and commentary I am going to resort to quantity over quality. I usually try to give as much attention to each CD with extensive commentary however this month’s reviews (perhaps unfortunately) will be short and sweet and much more in the style of traditional magazine reviews where space restrictions are an important factor. (ie. Less detail) I apologize in advance to readers who expect much more detailed reviews. Please check the reviews archives as many of my colleagues have written excellent detailed commentary of many of these CD’s. I hope the large number of quick comments will help guide you making some of those important year-end CD purchase decisions. Happy Holidays and see you in January. JP



This is the 9th studio CD from the big, little man. Once again UDO delivers the metallic goods. His stable lineup gives the tone, tempo and style a feel very similar to Man And Machine. The production is good and the songs are a usual mix of up-tempo grinders and slower ballad styles. The standout track is ‘Trainride to Russia’ which is a humorous account of the bands now semi-legendary tour of Russia a few years back. Thunderball is nothing new but for longtime fans it is another welcome addition into a long and virtually flawless catalogue.