Album Review: Awakening by The Megs – A Hard Rock Odyssey Worth Remembering
Released in 2014 under Pure Steel Records, Awakening by The Megs is one of those albums that feels like a gritty love letter to rock fans across Europe and beyond. With its roots firmly planted in the Pop/Rock and Hard Rock genres, this record doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—but it sure as hell makes the ride memorable. It’s raw, unapologetic, and packed with tracks that linger long after the final chord fades.
The album kicks off strong with “Blackout,” a track that grabs you by the collar and demands attention. Its driving riffs and relentless energy are impossible to ignore. The vocals have this raspy edge, almost like they’re daring you to turn the volume up louder. What stands out here isn’t just the technical skill but the sheer attitude dripping from every note. This song feels like a punch to the gut—in the best way possible—and if you’re not headbanging within the first thirty seconds, check your pulse.
Then there’s “Follow the White Rabbit,” which takes things in a slightly different direction. If “Blackout” is all about brute force, this track leans into intrigue and atmosphere. The lyrics pull you into some kind of twisted wonderland (pun totally intended), while the guitar work weaves intricate patterns that feel both chaotic and controlled. There’s something hypnotic about how it builds tension before exploding into a chorus that’ll stick in your head for days. Honestly, I found myself hitting repeat more times than I care to admit.
One thing worth noting about Awakening is the repetition of certain tracks—like “Rain of Sand” and “Take Me to Heaven.” At first, it feels a bit odd, almost like the band ran out of ideas. But on closer listens, these reprises take on new life, almost as if The Megs are playing around with perspective or mood. Sure, it might not land perfectly for everyone, but it adds an experimental layer to what could’ve been a straightforward hard rock album.
Now, let’s talk production. For a 2014 release, it holds up surprisingly well. The mix has enough clarity to let each instrument shine without losing that dirty, live-in-the-studio vibe. You can tell The Megs weren’t aiming for perfection—they were chasing authenticity, and they nailed it.
Looking back at Awakening, it’s clear this album wasn’t trying to change the world. Instead, it offers a snapshot of a band doing what they do best: rocking out with passion and purpose. And honestly? That’s more than enough. As someone who’s listened to countless albums in this genre, I’ll say this—it’s refreshing when a band doesn’t overthink things and just lets the music speak for itself.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: if this album had come out ten years earlier, I’m pretty sure “Follow the White Rabbit” would’ve been the soundtrack to every rebellious teenager’s late-night drive. Just saying.
