Stainless – Lady Of Lust & Steel
Review score: 8/10

Stainless describe themselves as hard rock or heavy rock rather than pure heavy metal — a band rooted in classic influences but delivered with a sharp, modern edge. Formed in Portland, Oregon in 2022, the group emerged from the Pacific Northwest underground scene, with members previously active in bands such as Black Breath, Long Knife, Nightfell and Ripper.

Their first release, the self-issued single “Snakebite” / “Too Hot To Steal”, signalled their intent; riff-driven, high-energy rock with a strong traditional backbone. That momentum carried into their debut EP Nocturnal Racer, released via High Roller Records. Despite combining classic hard rock and metal influences in an unorthodox way, the record was met with enthusiastic international feedback — affirming that Stainless’ approach resonated beyond their local scene.

Recorded at Red Lantern Studios in Portland and produced by guitarist Jamie Byrum alongside Evan Mersky, Stainless’ first full-length album, Lady Of Lust & Steel, marks a clear step forward in scope, confidence and songwriting. Across eight new tracks, the band expand their hard rock foundation into something broader and more assured, refining their blend of ’70s swagger and ’80s metal bite. At the centre of it all is Larissa Cavacece’s raw, raspy vocal delivery, adding grit and personality while elevating the songs with attitude and presence.

Opener “Restless an’ Ready” sets the tone with a driving riff, reminiscent of, but not as technical as UFO’s Rock Bottom. The track channels the stripped-down force of classic AC/DC-style rock with the muscular edge of early European metal. The vocals have an echoey retro Slade vibe to them, which prevails throughout the whole album. This one builds up to a strong mid-tempo groove with some tasty bass work and a fluid guitar solo. I got a whiff of AC/DC’s Shoot to Thrill hiding away near the end. This has me hooked.

In “Whorefrost” (deliberately misspelt), the intro echoes the mechanics of Whitesnake’s Bad Boys from the 1987 era. There are nicely harmonised guitars before a well-placed technical, full-gas solo. Flanged guitar effects toward the close reinforce the mid-’80s sheen.

“(Don’t Cross Me) Fool” has a cool, funky intro with wah-driven guitar, leading to a vocal wail that Coverdale himself would be proud of. Punchy, precise riff work makes this a song built to dominate the big stage. The bluesy solo flows over rhythm guitar. There’s a Guns N’ Roses Paradise City feel in this one. The guitars continue working in harmony to the end. This could be my favourite track.

Throughout the title track, “Lady of Lust & Steel”, the bassline is always in control, driving the song forward while all sorts of other things are going on: jangly ’80s chorus- and flange-effect guitar sounds, an early solo, a groovy section, and a second solo. Variety is generously delivered here.

“Danger In The Night” builds to a catchy, riff-driven up-tempo number. There’s a hint of Iron Maiden in the melody, while the rhythm guitar gallops along in the background to the great guitar solos.

“Take a Listen Mama” slows the tempo down for this bluesy rock ballad. There are more mid-80s vibes in here. Is there even some double bass drumming going on in there?

“Vitamin Tease” and “Rough Justice” are short but sweet tracks to round proceedings out. There’s an Aerosmith feel in the former, where there are clearly lead and rhythm guitars playing together. Not sure how this would play out on stage with a single guitarist in the line up? The latter is the shortest track, with a strong feel of Deep Purple’s Burn in the intro. There’s still time for a guitar solo in this one.

This album grows on you. The sound is punchy, expansive and direct with plenty of tight arrangements. Strong hooks help to craft a clear sense of identity throughout. The album embraces variety in the spirit of classic hard rock records, where each track carries its own character, yet the overall sound remains cohesive. With Lady Of Lust & Steel, Stainless deliver a more accomplished, fully realised statement — energetic, riff-driven heavy rock that honours tradition while sounding immediate and alive. They have succeeded in carving out a distinctive voice of their own.

Tracklisting:

1. Restless an’ Ready
2. Whorefrost
3. (Don’t Cross Me) Fool
4. Lady of Lust & Steel
5. Danger in the Night
6. Take a Listen Mama
7. Vitamin Tease
8. Rough Justice