Review: The Hot One Two – Virtues
Self Release (October 10th, 2025)
Reviewer – Phil Rozier
Let me tell you something, kids: I’ve been rocking since cassette tapes tangled like spaghetti and MTV actually played music. I had an older brother that drove an Escort XR3 (flash!), and the rewind button on the tape player used to ‘ping’ out the centre console when it hit the end of the tape. This isn’t a form of claim to fame, it’s a statement of fact, that in that 30 year period, I’ve listened to a fair amount of rock. Good and bad. Good being authentically rock and roll, and bad being, well, perhaps more artificial wanna be recreations of authenticity. And just when I thought the rock gods had gone off the boil, taking a little nap, The Hot One Two drop ‘Virtues‘; a rockin’ uppercut to the jaw of mediocrity. Released on October 10th, this album doesn’t just try to rock, it actually is rock! It throws it a party, spikes the punch, and sets the drum kit on fire.
Rock DNA: Classic Vibes, Modern Swagger
‘Virtues‘ is a Frankenstein of everything that made rock glorious: crunchy riffs, soaring solos, and vocals that sound like they were recorded inside a whiskey barrel. It’s got the DNA of Aerosmith, the attitude of Guns N’ Roses, and just enough polish to make it radio-ready without losing its edge. I wouldn’t say its dripping with uniqueness; it has no darker vibe and isn’t trying to occupy an artistic edge. I think The Hot One Two are just trying to be a straight up rock band. And it works. Unapologetically loud, proudly melodic, and tighter than your old leather trousers.
The percussion on ‘Virtues‘ deserves its own postcode. The drummer doesn’t just keep time, he kinda controls it. Every track is driven by upbeat, relentless, bang-your-head-and-spill-your-pint kind of drumming. It’s the kind of rhythm section that makes you want to quit your job and start a garage band.
Vocals & Lyrics: Swagger Meets Soul
I’d like to say Simon West’s vocals are a perfect blend of grit and charm; like a rock frontman who’s been through heartbreak, bar fights, and still knows how to work a crowd. Most of that is true, however, the vocal sound is slightly softer than I would expect, when accompanied by Nick Manner’s roaring Les Paul. In fairness, the smoother edge to Simon’s voice probably acts as quite the balance to Manner’s grinding chords. There’s enough punch to make you smirk and enough heart to make you raise a lighter (or phone torch, if you must).
Standout Tracks (Unofficially Endorsed by My Neck Pain)
- ‘The Reaper‘ – The first track is a riff-laden anthem that feels like a stalwart of rocks past. Thumping, consistent, sing along choruses.
- ‘Blow Your Mind‘ – I think Blackstone Cherry just called and want their riff back. Whilst obviously not a direct copy, there’s defo some southern swagger and banging pace to this number. Listen, you’ll get it.
- ‘Saint Restraint‘ – A slower more melodic groove, demonstrating the ability of the band to be more heart if they need to be. 80’s inspired for sure, definitely got Motley Crue and Steel Panther in there somewhere!
Final Verdict: The Cambridge originators (there’s a good band name!) have produced a great classic rock album.
As someone who’s spent three decades defending rock from synths, auto-tune, and the rise of banjos in pop music, I say this with joy: ‘Virtues‘ is a great rock album. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s got more hooks than an 80’s slasher movie.
Welcome to the party, new fans. And to The Hot One Two; keep the amps warm. We’ll see you on tour.
Tracklist:
- The Reaper
- Alive Again
- Blow Your Mind
- Let The Good Times Roll
- Saint Restraint
- Grindstone
- The Edge
- Distant Love Affair
- For You
Line-up:
Simon West – Vocals
Nick Manners – Lead Guitar & Backing Vocals
Nick Blackburn – Bass & Backing Vocals
Joe Chivers – Drums
Web Links:
Discover more from ROCKPOSER DOT COM!
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
You must be logged in to post a comment.