Ruby Topaz - Mark Bram / Ruby Topaz Again 23rd Anniversary Remaster (2024)

Exhibiting an interesting blend of pop, rock, glam, metal, blues and fusion, the music of Ruby Topaz was once described by a critic as 'subtly savage melodic metal.' The band's music varies so much that it is difficult to tack a label on their style. Their influences run the gamut from The Beatles, The Monkees, and Hermans Hermits to Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Frank Zappa, Jeff Beck, and The Mahavishnu Orchestra.

The name came about when, during a band name change, someone asked Mark what his birthstone was. He replied: “Topaz”. They went through a bunch of other birthstones to see what would pair well. When someone suggested Ruby, Mark said: “ooohh. Ruby Topaz...like Alice Cooper, except more glamorous”. After a while, like The Alice Cooper Band, people started calling Mark “Ruby Topaz”, like they began calling Vincent Furnier “Alice Cooper”.

Mark Bram, and his alter ego/band Ruby Topaz have a long and colorful history on the Rhode Island music scene. In the 80’s, the Ruby Topaz single Why/ The Sack had some international success, and was played on the radio in England, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium. They played their progressive brand of glam rock in Rhode Island as well as CBGB’s , Gildersleeves, and L’Amour’s in New York.

Of the 14 tracks on the album, highlights include “Want You Now,” featuring retro-flavored guitars harking back to early Rush. Bram’s high vocals summon up memories of Geddy Lee’s distinctive voice, imbuing the lyrics with piercing tones and palpable passion.

“The Sack,” a swaying blues rock number, oozes sad colors of heartache. Bram’s vocals emanate the tight, rasping textures of Janis Joplin, drenching the lyrics in deliciously nasty textures. Following its Beatle-like intro, “Change of Face” shifts into a dramatic glam rocker. A dazzling guitar solo allows Bram to strut his talent on the instrument.

For some reason, “Knife in My Back” conjures up suggestions of AC/DC – heavy guitars snarling and thunderous percussion, followed by a scorching guitar solo. On this track, Bram’s voice takes on tones of Robert Plant crossed with Steve Marriott.

“Getting to the Point” is a personal favorite because of its blend of Queen-like savors with lustrous Beatles-like vocals.

Stylistically diverse, Ruby Topaz Again 23rd Anniversary Remaster shows what can be accomplished without digital manipulation. Good stuff.