Highway Chile (NETHERLANDS)
Posted: 27 Mar 2025, 13:27
Highway Chile - Rat Race (2025)
Year : 2025
Style : Heavy Metal , Hard Rock
Country : Netherlands
Audio : 320 kbps + scans
Size : 88 mb
Bio:
One of Holland's most illustrious hard rock bands is without a doubt Highway Chile. Together with bands like Vandenberg, Vengeance, Picture, Helloïse and Bodine, Highway Chile is one of the standard-bearers of Dutch (hard)rock in the 1980s, whose popularity reached far beyond the borders.The band, founded in the early 1980s, is anno 2024 still an act to be duly reckoned with. And not only because of the strong song material from classic albums like Storybook Heroes (1983) and Fever (1984)! Material from more recent releases like Keeper of the Earth (2008), larded with Helloïse hits and songs from the new album, also guarantees a churning set on stage.Highway Chile still understands the art of performing in 2025, and has the phenomenal voice of Stan Verbraak as an extra asset, in addition to the musical craftsmanship of Jaimy Quite, Martin Mens, Ben Blaauw and Marchell Remeeus. That the band is still alive with fans is clear when the band performs: not only a regular bevy of fans visit Highway Chile's gigs, but also fans of rock music in general come to these shows and go wild in the process. In doing so, it is especially noticeable that different age groups can appreciate the band. Old rockers stand next to the youngsters in front of the stage singing along to the lyrics!Besides a large number of shows as headliner, Highway Chile also played as support for big names like Uriah Heep, After Forever, Tygers of Pan Tang and did a joint tour with contemporaries of Vengeance.Meanwhile, Highway Chile worked on new songs that were released in 2025 with the new album ‘Rat Race’, on LP and CD.The band is still eager and the band members still rock!So reason enough to book this band in 2025.As the late Alfred Lagarde actually said it all with his legendary statement:‘Rock ‘n Roll is better than Music....and Highway Chile rocks!’.
Album:
Dutch (New Wave of British) heavy metal pioneers Highway Chile set to make waves again in the current social with a likewise titled album ‘Rat Race’. Formed in the early 1980s, Highway Chile has been a cornerstone of the Dutch heavy rock scene, with founding members Martin Mens and main songwriter Ben Blaauw at the helm laying down the wonderful guitar duels and wonderful harmonies.The band‘s history is intertwined with that of Helloïse, another prominent Dutch rock band. In 1984, Highway Chile members Ernst van Ee and Blaauw left to form Helloïse, which gained even more fame before disappearing from the scene in 1989. Today, Highway Chile’s lineup includes former Helloïse members, with Stan Verbraak on vocals and Marchell Remeeus on bass, creating a powerful fusion of both bands’ legacies, forging a future from their elaborate past.‘Rat Race’ is a statement of their enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. This 8-track record showcases a masterful blend of classic melodic hard rock and heavy metal, infused with the combined heritage of Highway Chile and Helloïse.The opening title track ,,Rat Race” sets the stage for the album, though it did not immediately grab my attention. Its simple structure and pace with Stan Verbraak’s somewhat isolated vocals might initially seem underwhelming and need time to grow. However, this track serves as a prelude to the musical journey that unfolds, raising anticipation for what’s to come.As the album progresses, it becomes clear that my/any initial reservations are quickly dispelled by the sheer musicianship and exploratory nature of the tracks. The fusion of both bands’ legacies creates a swirling potion of classic melodic hard rock, constantly enhanced by brisk injections of classic NWOBHM elements that elevate the listening experience. The blend of styles is remarkable and keeps you on edge.Stan Verbraak is widely regarded as one of the Netherlands’ finest vocalists, brings a charismatic and strong radiant presence to the forefront. His classic bluesy and soulful tone adds a powerful croon and soar to the hard rocking songs, particularly evident in the roaring fierce ,,The Enemy Within’’. This track showcases the band’s powerful guitar structures, reminiscent of Tony Iommi’s finest work. The thunderous roar and ominous pace are further emphasized by Marchell Remeeus’ powerful low bass playing and subtle funky notes. New drummer Jaimy Quite intensifies the rhythm, setting the stage for a wailing guitar duel that blossoms into colorful melodic grandeur. Simply sizzling!,Rocking Chair Rock” opens with intense guitar harmonies, leading into a throbbing and pulsating rocker filled with guitar licks and melodic explorations. The tongue-in-cheek lyrics add a pleasant touch of humor to the composition and displays their agility as lyricists.The album’s constructive creativity is a standout feature, deeply rooted in the sounds of the ’80s and ’90s while offering a fresh approach. ,,We’re Good” exemplifies this intensely, blending sheer power and melodic precision, while the thunderous ,,Wasted Years” takes it up a notch on its turbulent discharge. Blaauw and Mens’ guitar harmonies, intricate riffs and hooks, as well as their standout duels are central to the record, complemented by vibrant drums that resonate with engrained dynamics.,,A Song We All Can Sing” features stagnant ‘buzzsaw’-driven verses and a howling bridge and chorus, with Verbraak showcasing his impressive vocal range. This great track, like many others on the album, touches on social issues and the complications of modern Western society, giving the record a quasi-conceptual feel in the lyrical segment without becoming overly heavy-handed.The emotional semi-ballad ,,No Reason Left to Stay” revives Helloïse’s elusive past of Ben Blaauw and Verbraak’s collaborations contemplating on emotional discharged (semi) ballads with weeping and soul stirring appeal. It underlines Stan’s impressive vocal delivery, featuring a powerful croon and soaring chorus. The subdued guitar work, lively low bass lines, and scattering drum groove create a perfect backdrop for the jaw-dropping guitar solo that duels with discharged emotions.The album closer, ,,Rock ‘n Roll Fantasy” wraps up the record with a unique twist, incorporating elements reminiscent of Queen’s stacked harmonies and benchmark Uriah Heep melodies and construction, percolating frequently (briefly) into a sweeping chorus. This track effectively bridges gaps between contemporary and classic rock, fusing various flavors onto a bluesy foundation of riffs. It serves as a fitting conclusion, encapsulating the soul of Highway Chile’s musical existence.With their video for ,,Rat Race” enhanced with slick AI generated imagery, the album cover of the record is as organic as their sound. The picture of old green doors covering a staircase, with one door open displays the band’s take on their careers as the poster of their band on the right is the original concert poster from the 80/81 era when Ben Blaauw won Ted Nugent’s Gibson Birdland guitar during a guitar battle on national radio. It is the perfect coverart for an album uniting the band’s rich past and present.‘Rat Race’ is a powerful return for Highway Chile, showcasing their ability to craft engaging, melodic hard rock songs with a classic metal edge embedded in its core. The album’s strength lies in its seamless blend of both Highway Chile and Helloïse’s best elements, resulting in a fresh and familiar sound that will undoubtedly appeal to long-time fans and newcomers with a heart for nostalgia and classic hard rock. With its mix of hard-hitting rockers, emotional ballads, and socially conscious lyrics, ‘Rat Race’ stands as Highway Chile’s enduring relevance in the Dutch and European metal scene.
Line Up:
Stan Verbraak - Vocals (2005-present) - See also: Helloïse, ex-Van Ee
Ben Blaauw - Guitars (1981-1984, 2025-present) - See also: Helloïse, ex-Blue & Beaugarde
Martin Mens - Guitars, Vocals (1981-1982, 2001-present) - See also: ex-Ear Danger
Marshell Remeeus - Bass (2008-present) - See also: ex-Helloïse
Jaimy Quite - Drums (2025-present)
Tracklist:
01. Rat Race
02. We're Good
03. No Reason Left to Stay
04. Wasted Years
05. The Enemy Within
06. A Song We All Can Sing
07. Rocking Chair Rock
08. Rock 'n Roll Fantasy
Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/
Year : 2025
Style : Heavy Metal , Hard Rock
Country : Netherlands
Audio : 320 kbps + scans
Size : 88 mb
Bio:
One of Holland's most illustrious hard rock bands is without a doubt Highway Chile. Together with bands like Vandenberg, Vengeance, Picture, Helloïse and Bodine, Highway Chile is one of the standard-bearers of Dutch (hard)rock in the 1980s, whose popularity reached far beyond the borders.The band, founded in the early 1980s, is anno 2024 still an act to be duly reckoned with. And not only because of the strong song material from classic albums like Storybook Heroes (1983) and Fever (1984)! Material from more recent releases like Keeper of the Earth (2008), larded with Helloïse hits and songs from the new album, also guarantees a churning set on stage.Highway Chile still understands the art of performing in 2025, and has the phenomenal voice of Stan Verbraak as an extra asset, in addition to the musical craftsmanship of Jaimy Quite, Martin Mens, Ben Blaauw and Marchell Remeeus. That the band is still alive with fans is clear when the band performs: not only a regular bevy of fans visit Highway Chile's gigs, but also fans of rock music in general come to these shows and go wild in the process. In doing so, it is especially noticeable that different age groups can appreciate the band. Old rockers stand next to the youngsters in front of the stage singing along to the lyrics!Besides a large number of shows as headliner, Highway Chile also played as support for big names like Uriah Heep, After Forever, Tygers of Pan Tang and did a joint tour with contemporaries of Vengeance.Meanwhile, Highway Chile worked on new songs that were released in 2025 with the new album ‘Rat Race’, on LP and CD.The band is still eager and the band members still rock!So reason enough to book this band in 2025.As the late Alfred Lagarde actually said it all with his legendary statement:‘Rock ‘n Roll is better than Music....and Highway Chile rocks!’.
Album:
Dutch (New Wave of British) heavy metal pioneers Highway Chile set to make waves again in the current social with a likewise titled album ‘Rat Race’. Formed in the early 1980s, Highway Chile has been a cornerstone of the Dutch heavy rock scene, with founding members Martin Mens and main songwriter Ben Blaauw at the helm laying down the wonderful guitar duels and wonderful harmonies.The band‘s history is intertwined with that of Helloïse, another prominent Dutch rock band. In 1984, Highway Chile members Ernst van Ee and Blaauw left to form Helloïse, which gained even more fame before disappearing from the scene in 1989. Today, Highway Chile’s lineup includes former Helloïse members, with Stan Verbraak on vocals and Marchell Remeeus on bass, creating a powerful fusion of both bands’ legacies, forging a future from their elaborate past.‘Rat Race’ is a statement of their enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. This 8-track record showcases a masterful blend of classic melodic hard rock and heavy metal, infused with the combined heritage of Highway Chile and Helloïse.The opening title track ,,Rat Race” sets the stage for the album, though it did not immediately grab my attention. Its simple structure and pace with Stan Verbraak’s somewhat isolated vocals might initially seem underwhelming and need time to grow. However, this track serves as a prelude to the musical journey that unfolds, raising anticipation for what’s to come.As the album progresses, it becomes clear that my/any initial reservations are quickly dispelled by the sheer musicianship and exploratory nature of the tracks. The fusion of both bands’ legacies creates a swirling potion of classic melodic hard rock, constantly enhanced by brisk injections of classic NWOBHM elements that elevate the listening experience. The blend of styles is remarkable and keeps you on edge.Stan Verbraak is widely regarded as one of the Netherlands’ finest vocalists, brings a charismatic and strong radiant presence to the forefront. His classic bluesy and soulful tone adds a powerful croon and soar to the hard rocking songs, particularly evident in the roaring fierce ,,The Enemy Within’’. This track showcases the band’s powerful guitar structures, reminiscent of Tony Iommi’s finest work. The thunderous roar and ominous pace are further emphasized by Marchell Remeeus’ powerful low bass playing and subtle funky notes. New drummer Jaimy Quite intensifies the rhythm, setting the stage for a wailing guitar duel that blossoms into colorful melodic grandeur. Simply sizzling!,Rocking Chair Rock” opens with intense guitar harmonies, leading into a throbbing and pulsating rocker filled with guitar licks and melodic explorations. The tongue-in-cheek lyrics add a pleasant touch of humor to the composition and displays their agility as lyricists.The album’s constructive creativity is a standout feature, deeply rooted in the sounds of the ’80s and ’90s while offering a fresh approach. ,,We’re Good” exemplifies this intensely, blending sheer power and melodic precision, while the thunderous ,,Wasted Years” takes it up a notch on its turbulent discharge. Blaauw and Mens’ guitar harmonies, intricate riffs and hooks, as well as their standout duels are central to the record, complemented by vibrant drums that resonate with engrained dynamics.,,A Song We All Can Sing” features stagnant ‘buzzsaw’-driven verses and a howling bridge and chorus, with Verbraak showcasing his impressive vocal range. This great track, like many others on the album, touches on social issues and the complications of modern Western society, giving the record a quasi-conceptual feel in the lyrical segment without becoming overly heavy-handed.The emotional semi-ballad ,,No Reason Left to Stay” revives Helloïse’s elusive past of Ben Blaauw and Verbraak’s collaborations contemplating on emotional discharged (semi) ballads with weeping and soul stirring appeal. It underlines Stan’s impressive vocal delivery, featuring a powerful croon and soaring chorus. The subdued guitar work, lively low bass lines, and scattering drum groove create a perfect backdrop for the jaw-dropping guitar solo that duels with discharged emotions.The album closer, ,,Rock ‘n Roll Fantasy” wraps up the record with a unique twist, incorporating elements reminiscent of Queen’s stacked harmonies and benchmark Uriah Heep melodies and construction, percolating frequently (briefly) into a sweeping chorus. This track effectively bridges gaps between contemporary and classic rock, fusing various flavors onto a bluesy foundation of riffs. It serves as a fitting conclusion, encapsulating the soul of Highway Chile’s musical existence.With their video for ,,Rat Race” enhanced with slick AI generated imagery, the album cover of the record is as organic as their sound. The picture of old green doors covering a staircase, with one door open displays the band’s take on their careers as the poster of their band on the right is the original concert poster from the 80/81 era when Ben Blaauw won Ted Nugent’s Gibson Birdland guitar during a guitar battle on national radio. It is the perfect coverart for an album uniting the band’s rich past and present.‘Rat Race’ is a powerful return for Highway Chile, showcasing their ability to craft engaging, melodic hard rock songs with a classic metal edge embedded in its core. The album’s strength lies in its seamless blend of both Highway Chile and Helloïse’s best elements, resulting in a fresh and familiar sound that will undoubtedly appeal to long-time fans and newcomers with a heart for nostalgia and classic hard rock. With its mix of hard-hitting rockers, emotional ballads, and socially conscious lyrics, ‘Rat Race’ stands as Highway Chile’s enduring relevance in the Dutch and European metal scene.
Line Up:
Stan Verbraak - Vocals (2005-present) - See also: Helloïse, ex-Van Ee
Ben Blaauw - Guitars (1981-1984, 2025-present) - See also: Helloïse, ex-Blue & Beaugarde
Martin Mens - Guitars, Vocals (1981-1982, 2001-present) - See also: ex-Ear Danger
Marshell Remeeus - Bass (2008-present) - See also: ex-Helloïse
Jaimy Quite - Drums (2025-present)
Tracklist:
01. Rat Race
02. We're Good
03. No Reason Left to Stay
04. Wasted Years
05. The Enemy Within
06. A Song We All Can Sing
07. Rocking Chair Rock
08. Rock 'n Roll Fantasy
Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/