Review: Gone Savage

Gone Savage – Retrograde

UK rockers Gone Savage return with their second album Retrograde and it’s everything you want from a modern rock record - anthemic, confident, emotional and dripping with attitude. Blending classic 80s influences with a fresh, inventive approach, this is an album that proves true rock ’n’ roll never really went away - it just evolved. Gone Savage are that evolution.

Opening with “Ram Me Down,” the band come out swinging. It’s a slice of pure 80s metal with a modern twist - searing guitars, a heartfelt vocal and a middle 8 that drifts into a dreamlike haze before an emotion-driven solo worthy of Slash himself. This is a statement opener - bold, passionate and impossible to ignore.

“Shameless” follows and the swagger is off the charts. The soaring guitars and deep, punchy rhythm section transport you straight to the Sunset Strip circa ’85, but with the depth and maturity of 2025. The song balances retro energy with modern atmosphere, the synth flourishes and pacing giving it real cinematic depth. The solo is lightning-fast but melodic - technical without ever losing its soul.

“Money Power Love” storms in next - a stadium-ready rocker with pounding drums and punchy synths that give it serious drive. The pre-chorus builds beautifully into a massive, cautionary chorus, while the acoustic breakdown offers a perfectly timed breather before launching into the kind of anthemic refrain that was built for arenas. It’s smart, sharp songwriting that balances power and melody flawlessly.

Then comes “Here Comes the Shade,” which changes the mood completely. A haunting spoken-word intro sets the tone before a bright, melodic guitar line and emotive vocal take over. The intertwining dual vocals in the chorus create something truly special — modern, inventive and full of soul. This is Gone Savage pushing their sound into the future, all while staying true to their rock roots.

“Soul Sister” slows things down without losing intensity. It’s the band’s take on the power ballad — think Bon Jovi meets Little Angels, reimagined for today. The acoustic guitar intro is sublime, the vocal performance is flawless and when the full band kicks in, it’s pure magic. It’s emotional without being sentimental — proof of the band’s songwriting depth.

“Adrenaline Junkie” reignites the fire with its spoken-word sample and explosive riff. It’s dirty, modern and full of bite, blending punk energy with hard-rock swagger. The band’s versatility shines here — they can go from melodic to menacing in a heartbeat and make it sound effortless.

“World Gone Crazy” is defiant and bold, a stadium-sized anthem with big hooks and bigger heart. The chugging guitars and clever use of space in the mix make it feel alive, constantly moving and growing. You can imagine this one closing live shows - fists in the air, crowd roaring.

“In 2 Ya” throws a delightful curveball - the intro is wild and unexpected, before the track bursts into prime Aerosmith sleaze-rock swagger. The groove is filthy in all the right ways, the bass tone is glorious and the chorus is pure melodic brilliance. It’s fun, unapologetic and oozes confidence.

“Sunshine and Flowers” brings the edge back, opening with a sharp, commanding riff. The punk sneer in the vocal adds attitude, while the guitar lines weave around the vocal like a duet, creating a textured soundscape. It’s rebellious and infectious - classic Gone Savage.

Finally, “D.R.O.W.N.I.N.G” closes the album in stunning fashion. The hazy, hypnotic intro lulls you in before the barbed guitar cuts through, awakening the senses. The layered vocal effects add an eerie, haunting edge and the slow build to the massive, scream-along crescendo feels cinematic. It’s the perfect conclusion - both cathartic and climactic.

Retrograde is more than an album - it’s a journey through the heart of modern rock, packed with passion, power and precision. Gone Savage don’t just nod to their influences — they reignite them, crafting a sound that feels classic yet cutting-edge.

If this is Gone Savage in retrograde, then we can’t wait to see them when they go full throttle forward.