Embodying the essence of the King

Standing out for their bluesy, groove-laden metal, it is no surprise that the heavy metal band Danzig composed Danzig Sings Elvis. Elvis Presley’s influence over the band was felt since their beginning in 1987. While the album was met with mixed reviews, as a whole it is a nice tribute to a clear impact the King of Rock and Roll has on the band’s style.  

With 14 cover versions of tracks by Elvis Presley (even of covers he did himself and made popular), fans of Danzig and fans of Presley will appreciate how Glenn Danzig, the lead vocalist, captures the King’s inflections and truly channels the essence of the iconic figure. Every member of the metal band rises to the challenge of nailing the rock and roll feel. Johnny Kelly (drums, percussion), Steve Zing (bass, backing vocals) and Tommy Victor (lead guitar) create the bluesy, laid back atmosphere to back Danzig’s vocals.  

From the first note to the first vocals of “Is It So Strange,” the opener, listeners are transported to another time and taken on a nostalgic journey. “Baby Let’s Play House” will bring smiles to people’s faces when Danzig sings “Oh, baby, baby, baby, baby baby” just like Elvis. “Love Me” will also bring a smile to people’s faces while producing chills. The slow-paced song and Danzig’s vocals are enchanting. Another cover that Danzig took on is “Fever,” that sparks people to want to dance slowly. “One Night” and “Girl Of My Best Friend” are two of the faster tracks which makes the guitar more notable, and the tempo makes them “head-popping” songs.

No matter what song people are listening to, from “Lonely Blue Boy” to “Pocket Full of Rainbows” to the closer “Young And Beautiful,” the band exudes Elvis in every aspect. The rhythmic and bluesy atmosphere is captured beautifully. At the core of it, this album is not a means of the heavy metal band trying to out do what they have already done, it is just a fun project that pays homage to someone they admire. 

Even though this album strays from their typically satanic lyricism and image, it is nice to hear them channel one of their style influences. Danzig Sings Elvis is a trip down memory lane for Presley fans, and long time fans will appreciate what this album means to Danzig.