Zero 1

Most people probably know Hal Sparks as an actor/comedian with such credits under his belt as a starring role in Showtime's groundbreaking series "Queer As Folk,"as Michael Novotny and on VH-1's series, "I Love The 70's" "I Love The 80's" etc. He has also guest starred on VH-1's "Celebrity Paranormal Project," "C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation," "Spider-Man 2," and many other projects. We didn't find out we has actually a hardcore rocker until "Celebrity Duets," came onto the scene last year. Who know the guy had it in him?

Now, with his band Zero 1 (Sparks, guitar and vocals) Robert Hall (bass) and Miles Loretta (drums) their first release, the CD is also titled "Zero 1," the balls to wall heavy metalist has come into the spotlight. And much to everyone's surprise, these guys can rock out with the best of them. It's a hard hitting, ear splitting, release that takes no prisoners and really rocks out. I know, all clichés, but in this case, it's true. I was surprised when I spun the CD. I wasn't really sure what to expect. All the songs are originals, which is a plus. No Zepplin or Aerosmith covers here. There are 13 well crafted tunes that cover a spectrum of imagery and thought. The louder the volume, the better the CD sounds. Sparks has a good gravelly voice that is well suited to metal. Though I don't know if the band would consider their CD metal. Maybe just good old fashioned rock-and-roll. You know, the kind we used to listen to and be able to find new releases in the record stores. There isn't a 'pop' tune on here. My favorite track is lucky number 13. A bit slower tune titled "S.O.S." Yeah, I like ballads, sue me! But don't get me wrong, it's not in the 'power ballad' category. It's still got a bit of bite to it. Other great tracks include "The Slow Song," "Indian Summer," and "She Waits."

Through any misconceptions you may have about Sparks from what you've seen on T.V. or on the comedy stage. He and his band are first rate rockers with the 'take no prisoners' attitude. "Zero 1," is definitely a worthwhile rock release. Give it a spin, raise your fist in the air, and celebrate the genre we all know and love. And if you're going to listen to it at home on your surround sound system: open up the windows, crank it up and give the neighbors something to shout about.