Review 2006 | MelodicRock.com

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML+RDFa 1.0//EN" "http://www.w3.org/MarkUp/DTD/xhtml-rdfa-1.dtd"> <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" version="XHTML+RDFa 1.0" dir="ltr" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" xmlns:foaf="http://xmlns.com/foaf/0.1/" xmlns:rdfs="http://www.w3.org/2000/01/rdf-schema#" xmlns:sioc="http://rdfs.org/sioc/ns#" xmlns:sioct="http://rdfs.org/sioc/types#" xmlns:skos="http://www.w3.org/2004/02/skos/core#" xmlns:xsd="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#"> <head profile="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml/vocab">  <link rel="dns-prefetch" href="//www.google-analytics.com" /> <link rel="preconnect" href="//www.google-analytics.com" /> <link rel="dns-prefetch" href="//stats.g.doubleclick.net" /> <link rel="preconnect" href="//stats.g.doubleclick.net" /> <link rel="dns-prefetch" href="//ajax.googleapis.com" /> <link rel="preconnect" href="//ajax.googleapis.com" /> <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="https://www.melodicrock.com/favicon.ico" type="image/vnd.microsoft.icon" /> <meta name="description" content="Bang Tango From The Hip Perris Records · Produced By: Bang Tango · Running Time: 31.00 · Release Date: Out Now · Released: · Musical Style: Hard Rock · Links: Perris Records 58% Songs: 50% Sound: 65% This is another album I have had trouble warming to. Basically I haven't got a lot of patience for albums that don't sound as sonically good as they" /> <meta name="generator" content="Drupal 7 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.melodicrock.com/review-2006" /> <link rel="shortlink" href="https://www.melodicrock.com/node/6876" /> <meta property="fb:app_id" content="316578848800460" /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="MelodicRock.com" /> <meta property="og:type" content="article" /> <meta property="og:title" content="Review 2006" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.melodicrock.com/review-2006" /> <meta property="og:description" content="Bang Tango From The Hip Perris Records · Produced By: Bang Tango · Running Time: 31.00 · Release Date: Out Now · Released: · Musical Style: Hard Rock · Links: Perris Records 58% Songs: 50% Sound: 65% This is another album I have had trouble warming to. Basically I haven't got a lot of patience for albums that don't sound as sonically good as they should these days and the new Bang Tango is perhaps the roughest release of the band's career." /> <meta property="og:updated_time" content="2023-02-24T23:29:22+11:00" /> <meta property="og:image:type" content="image/gif" /> <meta property="og:image:type" content="image/png" /> <meta property="og:image:type" content="image/jpeg" /> <meta property="og:image:width" content="220" /> <meta property="og:image:height" content="220" /> <meta property="article:published_time" content="2023-02-09T21:54:39+11:00" /> <meta property="article:modified_time" content="2023-02-24T23:29:22+11:00" /> <meta itemprop="name" content="Review 2006" /> <title>Review 2006 | MelodicRock.com</title> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1, maximum-scale=1.0, minimum-scale=1, user-scalable=no" /> <link rel="stylesheet" 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id="block-system-main" class="block block-system first last odd "> <div class="content"> <div id="node-6876" class="node node-page view-mode-full clearfix" about="/review-2006" typeof="sioc:Item foaf:Document"> <div class="teaser-date" > <div class="node-side"> <span property="dc:title" content="Review 2006" class="rdf-meta element-hidden"></span> <div class="content"> <div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bang Tango</b> <font color="#ffffff">From The Hip</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Perris Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bangtango-fromthehip.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Bang Tango</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 31.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.perrisrecords.com" target="new">Perris Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>58%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>50%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>65%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is another album I have had trouble warming to. Basically I haven't got a lot of patience for albums that don't sound as sonically good as they should these days and the new <b>Bang Tango</b> is perhaps the roughest release of the band's career.<br /> I absolutely adore <font color="#00ffff">Dancing On Coals</font>, that album was a truly original piece of work in a time where there were a lot of carbon copy bands making waves.<br /> Of course this is a completely different line-up than back in the heyday. The guys at times capture the spirit of the original band on occasion, while at other times they move towards a rougher punkish delivery.<br /> I think the thing here is that I'm just not sold on the songs. The opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">It's All Ok</font> works pretty well as does the mid-album <font color="#ffff00">Mother Mary</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Get Used To It</font>, but elsewhere, such as <font color="#ffff00">One More Spin, Go Go Go</font> and the very rough <font color="#ffff00">Carry Me Up</font> don't work for me at all.<br /> And at a mere 31 minutes playing time, there is no room for fillers at all. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Quiet Riot</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rehab</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Chavis Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/quietriot-rehab.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Quiet Riot</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57.48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.quietriot.com" target="new">Quiet Riot</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I have had this for a few weeks now and I'm still not sure what to make of it. I think I must just accept that it is not for me.<br /> I have read several reviews for the album, all of which are very positive. And I can see where these people are coming from, as the record has a definite style and feel and I think the band has realized their goal of making a new record with a fresh sound and brining the band into the 21st Century. But, personally speaking, I'm not sure I want to be there with them. I still have fond memories of the band's old school sound and to hear them modernize with tuned down guitars and a certain retro flavored classic rock meets 70s blues feel is something I'm not getting into.<br /> The record has a very organic live in the studio sound, and singer <b>Kevin DuBrow</b> sounds pretty good in this setting. I think once you get your head around the style change and the new heavy, raw sound, things improve and there are some strong songs on offer.<br /> However I can imagine some folk won't get that far as this is a very different beast to the <b>Quiet Riot</b> we all remember. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Royal Hunt</b> <font color="#ffffff">2006 Live</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD314 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/royalhunt-2006live.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Royal Hunt</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="120"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="45"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="4"><b>DVD: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Royal Hunt's new "live" album features 15 tracks and 90 minutes of music over the two discs.<br /> But what is on offer is pretty good stuff, even if it the release is aimed squarely at established <b>Royal Hunt</b> fans.<br /> The tracks picked concentrate on the <b>John West</b> era of the band, with a few old classics thrown in for good measure. West covers those as he does everything – with gusto.<br /> He is one hell of a singer and I enjoy everything he appears on.<br /> This live set also features new members <b>Kenneth Olsen</b> (drums), <b>Per Schelander</b> (bass) and <b>Marcus Jidell</b> (guitars). The band doesn't skip a beat, with mainstay <b>Andre Andersen</b> still running the show.<br /> Recording quality is very good, although a little on the raw side, which I state as a positive, as I hate polished and overdubbed live albums, unless that is part of a concept.<br /> So, the record feels nice and live and there is plenty of energy coming through the speakers, helped by an enthusiastic audience. The show was recorded/filmed at St. Petersburg's Music Hall in Russia – new frontiers for the band that has been going well over a decade now.<br /> <br /> Then there is the DVD. Film quality is good – the new line-up of <b>Royal Hunt</b> can be seen enjoying themselves and hammering out the classics. It is a solid live show and decent quality DVD release. By now most will be aware that I had reservations about the lead vocals - not the quality of them - but the fact that the pictures are sometimes out of sync with the audio coming through. That lead me to believe that perhaps they were fixed after the fact - it happens all the time, but in this case <b>John West</b> personally guarantees that everything you hear is 100% live, which is why he should be applauded for a great performance, and why I enjoyed the CD as much as I did.<br /> I still have an issue with the out of sync pictures, which for me does take away from the overall enjoyment of the DVD portion of this live release. I will stick to the CD when I need a fix. I know some fans agree with me on this and some others disagree strongly. It will come down to personal taste as to whether these few problems take away from the release, but it remains a quality performance by the band. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Hotwire</b> <font color="#ffffff">Devil In Disguise</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">NL Distribution</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/hotwire-devilindisguise.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Hotwire</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.hotwire-rock.de/" target="new">Hotwire</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">German melodic rockers <b>Hotwire</b> return with a new release that I think will find a place with fans of European melodic hard rock and especially the already established fans of the band.<br /> The band delivers a strong set of songs – some a little heavier with a strong groove and some more lightweight poppier numbers. When they rock, I got a small taste of <b>House of Shakira</b> and at other times a more <b>Bonfire</b> style German melodic rock.<br /> The band works best when on an uptempo setting; I didn't enjoy the mellower tracks as much, even though the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Wonderland</font> has a nice AOR hook and melody. <font color="#ffff00">Hot Love</font> is also skippable as it features a totally and obviously programmed sound.<br /> Interesting that the guys should cover the <b>Jimmy Barnes</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">Ride The Night Away</font> – cool song, but doesn't really work with a German accent. The rockers <font color="#ffff00">Skytrain</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Escape</font> are two examples of the band doing their best work, as is the excellent opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Waterfalls</font>.<br /> A solid album, but a little up and down as far as style and impact. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Suzi Rawn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Naked</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SonyBMG</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">82998-20966-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/suzirawn-naked.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Harry Hess & Pete Lesperance</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 39.10 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Pop Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.suzirawn.info" target="new">Suzi Rawn</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a great little modern pop/rock release for anyone out there that wakes up one day and feels like hearing <b>Harem Scarem</b> with a female vocalist.<br /> Except we aren't talking <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> or <font color="#00ffff">Human Nature</font> here – we are talking Harem doing their <b>Rubber</b> style modern rock or more precisely – a sound that falls into comparison with <b>Harry Hess'</b> solo album <font color="#00ffff">Another Day</font> and Pete's own <b>Fair Ground</b> project.<br /> This is produced by, played by and in part, co-written by <b>Harry Hess</b> and <b>Pete Lesperance</b> and features a very commercial modern pop sound that Harem fans will know all too well.<br /> The vocals of Suzi Rawn (Canadian Idol finalist) are very welcomed and she works the material very well. Some of this is pure Harem Scarem, even to the point that she covers two Harem tracks brilliantly (and poppier) – <font color="#ffff00">Don't Come Easy</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Understand You</font> (both from <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font>).<br /> Pete's guitar tone is unmistakable, so if you love the <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font> album, the band under the <b>Rubber</b> moniker and the guy's own solo projects, then this is utterly essential. If you are more old-school Harem, then take a listen first. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bombay Black</b> <font color="#ffffff">Anger Management</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Kivel Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">KR0031 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bombayblack-angermanagement.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ty Sims & Erik Johnson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.35 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.kivelrecords.com" target="new">Kivel Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I like this album a lot – it beats the band's debut for songs, production and energy. This American melodic hard rock outfit knows a good time and is happy to let you come along for the ride on their good fun party rock album, filled with tongue in cheek lyrics and in your face riffs.<br /> Highlights include the opening trio of songs - the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Without You</font> and the poppy <font color="#ffff00">Better Off Dead</font> (again with those lyrics!) and the very melodic <font color="#ffff00">Out Of Your Mind</font>.<br /> More fun with <font color="#ffff00">Every Time I Think Of You</font> and then there is the album highlight – the big in your face <font color="#ffff00">Forget About It</font>.<br /> The good fun, old-school rock n roll continues throughout the album – undoubtedly a more consistent and quality filled release than their debut, which I thought had potential, but not quite the songs.<br /> The guys close the album with an acoustic driven bonus track titled <font color="#ffff00">U Suck</font>, which is more fun and games at someone else's expense.<br /> Having had the recent advantage of seeing the guys live, I was surprised to see how incredibly energetic the band was on stage and was amazed at how heavy these songs sounded live.<br /> All I can say is that the next step for these guys on their way to stardom is to capture that raw energy on stage and have it translate into the studio. Do that and the guys will deliver a killer record. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tribe Of Gypsies</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Dweller On The Threshold</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tribeofgypsies-dwelleronthethreshold.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Richard Podolor & Roy Z</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Latin Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.tribeofgypsies.com" target="new">Tribe Of Gypsies</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The guys deserve a longer review than this, especially give that their sound is so complicated, original and not easy to describe.<br /> If you know the band, you know their style and let me tell you that the new album delivers everything they are renowned for and the quality of the songs and production is everything fans would hope for.<br /> If you are new to the guys, track 1 might suggest to you that they are a metal band with tribal influences – which of course, is true to a point, but there is so much more.<br /> They are a very diverse outfit that rock, but with strong Latin and South American influences, much of which comes through in the band's intense and complex percussion arrangements.<br /> But that is just the start of it. There's modern rock, <b>Sanata</b> like classic rock, soulful ballads and straight ahead rock all featured here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ride On</font> is a menacing rocker to open the album; <font color="#ffff00">Desolate Chile</font> is eclectic rock; while <font color="#ffff00">Stop Bombing Each Other</font> is the band at their most diverse.<br /> The ballad <font color="#ffff00">Halo</font> sees a more soulful side of the band come to the fore, but still the complex percussion base remains, not to mention the delicate guitar work of <b>Roy Z</b>.<br /> Perfectly produced, never stagnant in its delivery and certainly not for everyone, but one hell of an interesting listen. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Black Label Society</b> <font color="#ffffff">Shot To Hell</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Band Of Beer Inc.</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bls-shottohell.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Zakk Wylde</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.zakkwylde.com" target="new">Zakk Wylde</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Zakk Wylde</b> at his brutal best. We al know he can't sing – but we're over that now – right? <font color="#00ffff">Shot To Hell</font> ranks as one of Zakk's best records to date and sees him in full swing following on from the very good <font color="#00ffff">Mafia</font> release.<br /> There's nothing new on here that we haven't heard before, but it is done well and the songs are as strong as ever. I like his style and I love that guitar tone…all we need is another classic Ozzy album with Zakk as the true partner in crime.<br /> If you enjoyed the last coupe of albums, then this is more fine attitude laced metal fare. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>December Radio</b> <font color="#ffffff">December Radio</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Slanted Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">CMD1113 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/decemberradio.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Scotty Wilbanks</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.32</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.decemberadio.com" target="new">December Radio</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>December Radio</b> are doing all the right things – afterall, they have a Grammy nomination now. They are modern rock, but this still struck me as heavier than your average modern rock outfit. The guitars are tuned down, the vocals are familiar and the sound all very contemporary – so much so that you can hear this on radio – but there is also that heavier elements that might appeal to more than modern rock fans.<br /> There are some big rock moments here (<font color="#ffff00">Can't Hide, Greed, Table</font>), and then on the other hand the guys turn in a very commercial ballad with an acoustic base (<font color="#ffff00">Drifter, Least Of Three</font>).<br /> So mix a little <b>Pearl Jam</b>, a little <b>Nickelback</b> and some <b>AC/DC</b> riffing and you might get something close to these guys. Interesting sound and some accessible, commercial songs on hand for modern rock fans. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Anarion</b> <font color="#ffffff">Unbroken</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD074 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/anarion-unbroken.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Endel Rivers & Anarion</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.05</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.anarion.com.au" target="new">Anarion</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Australian metallers <b>Anarion</b> further prove that Melbourne is the metal capital of Australasia. This is a powerful, traditional style metal album that fans of Iron Maiden would easily appreciate.<br /> The 9 track, 45 minute album is super intense and filled with a double kick-drum assault that <b>Accept</b> would be proud of.<br /> I like the fact the vocals are strong and commanding, occasionally reaching for a scream, but in most cases, holding a firm tone and a good melody. The guitar work is pretty special too – lots of riffs and lots of solos.<br /> Again a brief review, but definitely an album worth checking out for fans of traditional melodic metal such as <b>Maiden</b> and <b>Priest</b>. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>MSG</b> <font color="#ffffff">Tales Of Rock N Roll</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Armaggedon Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/msg-talesofrocknroll.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Schenker</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70.15 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.michaelschenkerhimself.com" target="new">Michael Schenker</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>45%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>25%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>65%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I should have reviewed this months ago, but I just couldn't face it. I know there are some die-had Schenker fans out there that will take great offence to this, but this album is dull.<br /> Not even the track featuring my favourite <b>MSG</b> vocalist – <b>Robin McAuley</b> – can inspire me. This is simply Schenker by numbers – certainly not a fitting tribute to 25 years of (mostly) amazing rock n roll.<br /> It seems each release gets worse for Mike, so where to from here? I know I'm not alone in this view as I have read all the reviews I can find of this overly long record – none of them are great. And what was Michael thinking in joining all the songs together?<br /> It's hard enough telling one track from another anyway – this sounds like one long hour long song. Sorry, but I long for the days of <b>UFO</b> or even <font color="#00ffff">Perfect Timing</font> perhaps. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bob Seger</b> <font color="#ffffff">Face The Promise</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Capitol Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bobseger-facethepromise.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Bob Seger</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.bobseger.com" target="new">Bob Seger</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Faced with the promise of new material, I was really excited to hear this album. But much like the <b>Tom Cochrane</b> album just reviewed, the best part was the anticipation built up over years of waiting.<br /> Sadly the finished product could not deliver. The album sounds great and Bob himself is in fine voice and there too are some fine songs within this album. Just not enough of them and not of the quality we have been previously spoilt with.<br /> And with so many releases to listen to across a wide range of styles, I simply found that I wasn't interested in returning to this album after the first couple of weeks.<br /> That says it all really. If the class of <b>Bob Seger</b> cannot draw me back in, then there must be issues with the songwriting. I hope it isn't as long between the next album as it was for this one. All in all, nothing bad at all....just a little safe and predictable. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Various Artists</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock The Bones Volume 4</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD310 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/rockthebones-vol4.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Various</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="160"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Frontiers Records</b> releases the latest in its line of compilation albums – this one Volume 4 of the <font color="#00ffff">Rock The Bones</font> series. 31 tracks are featured over 2 discs, the first concentrating on recent releases, such as <b>John Waite, Ten, Glenn Hughes, Survivor, Shark Island</b> and <b>Shooting Star</b> to name a few.<br /> The second disc features songs from just released albums and a couple coming up in January, offering a nice advance taste of albums from <b>Hartmann, Jorn, Kelly Keagy, Danny Vaughn</b> and just released tracks from <b>Slamer, Talisman, Winger</b> and <b>Pretty Maids</b>.<br /> All in all, a good value compilation if picked up cheap and chock full of mostly high quality melodic rock and AOR. No unreleased material however will make this irrelevant for those likely to purchase many of the albums featured. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Various Artists</b> <font color="#ffffff">MTM Music 10th Anniversary</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-175 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mtm-10thanniversary.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Various</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="160"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Same deal for this compilation – this time it is <b>MTM's</b> turn to gather the best of their recent and upcoming releases to showcase. Featured here are new tracks from <b>Zeno, Shiva, Jani Lane, AOR</b> and <b>Rain</b>.<br /> Two bonuses here – the inclusion of unreleased bonus tracks from <b>Fate, Relapsed, Silver</b> and <b>Vengeance</b> offer something for fans to collect, although several other tracks are also marked unreleased –merely because the corresponding albums have not been issued yet – such as <b>Brett Walker</b> and <b>Robert Louden</b>.<br /> The second bonus is a second CD of 15 tracks, promoting the best tracks of MTM's last 10 years.<br /> Can't say I agree completely with their selection – the label has been responsible for a whole host of killer tracks over ten years, but there are some genuine highlights here from the likes of <b>Danger Danger, TNT, Rick Springfield, Dare</b> and <b>Jaded Heart</b>. No unreleased material on the second disc.<br /> Both compilations here offer something similar, yet different, but both offer a generally good oversight of some quality melodic rock. Check them out...then buy the albums! </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Donnie Iris & The Cruisers</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ellwood City</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Primary Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">PRI416 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/donnieirisandthecruisers-ellwoodcity.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Mark Avsec</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70.10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.donnieiris.com" target="new">Donnie Iris</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>78%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">American rocker <b>Donnie Iris</b> returns after a 9 year hiatus with a fired up new studio album that sees Donnie rocking in fine form.<br /> Also returning is the band's original drummer <b>Kevin Valentine (Cinderella, Kiss)</b>. The record is diverse in that it moves from rock n roll to soulful pop to straight ahead commercial ballads. Then there is the few left turns such as the boogie influenced <font color="#ffff00">Rocque Fantastique</font>.<br /> And I'm not sure about the cover of <font color="#ffff00">Soul Man</font> though – especially as the album's second track. Seemed out of place to me and killed the momentum of the opening track.<br /> I think Iris fans will walk away happy and content that their man is back and sounding like he never left. To an outsider however, this rather odd collection of pop rockers might be a little hard to get into. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>John Farnham</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Whispering Jack 20th Anniversary Edition</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SonyBMG</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">88697027122 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/johnfarnham-whisperingjack20.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ross Fraser</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Pop</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.johnfarnham.com.au" target="new">John Farnham</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Australian AOR icon <b>John Farnham</b> was a mainstay of the Oz music scene before <font color="#00ffff">Whispering Jack</font> was released some 20 years ago, but it was this album that made John a household name and indeed, an entertainment icon downunder.<br /> This remains the biggest selling Australian album of all time and deservedly so. The high-tech AOR/pop album has a gently-does-it appeal that saw every man, women and even a few kangaroos own a copy.<br /> Now 20 years on it has been remastered and repackaged with a bonus live DVD from the <i>Whispering Jack Tour</i>. The DVD has been available previously as a VHS tape and broadcast on TV and remains a classic live concert to watch – the power of this man's voice is insane. This release makes for a great package and the mid-price tag makes it even greater value for lovers of 80s high-tech AOR. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Twisted Sister</b> <font color="#ffffff">Twisted Christmas</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"> </h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/twistedsister-twistedchristmas.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Twisted Sister</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.twistedsister.com" target="new">Twisted Sister</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you are going to do a Christmas album – if you really absolutely must do it – then this is the way it should be done.<br /> <b>Twisted Sister</b> have always played up to an image and this CD continues that trend, this time rearranging some Christmas classics to now rattle along to the original music of past Twisted hits. For example – the band's best known hit <font color="#ffff80">We're Not Gonna Take It</font> is now <font color="#ffff00">O Come All Ye Faithful</font> – also the first single from the release.<br /> It is a bizarre listen – and at best is a lot of fun if not taken seriously. At worst it is perhaps a little tragic, but hey, it's the holiday season, so you have to give the guys a little slack!<br /> Above all, it is well produced and sounds ok, so if you are looking for some hard rock to ring your Christmas bell, you best be advised to check this one out. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Billy Idol</b> <font color="#ffffff">Happy Holidays</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Bodog Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/billyidol-happyholidays.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Billy Idol</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Crap</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.billyidol.com" target="new">Billy Idol</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00ffff" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>27%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>2%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>50%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you are going to do a Christmas album – if you really absolutely must do it – then this is the way it should not be done.<br /> This is utterly horrendous. Shite even.<br /> When <b>Billy Idol</b> is thinking clearly and on song, he rules - <font color="#00ffff">Whiplash Smile, Rebel Yell, Devil's Playground</font>. But he is capable of making some questionable decisions through his career – <font color="#00ffff">Cyberpunk</font> being the most obvious.<br /> But now there is this new gem! What the hell was he thinking?<br /> Ok, so there is a market for Christmas albums, but who in their right mind wants a punk/hard rock icon to do an utterly and totally serious Christmas album? Why not rock or punk it up in the same vein as <b>Twisted Sister</b> has?<br /> <b>Billy Idol</b> is all out on his own here – no wonder, as I would think his band ran for the hills when presented with the concept for this record.<br /> So, a solo Billy proceeds to run through 17 (yes, 17) Christmas favourites, all completely serious and all completely devoid of any kind of Idol type attitude. <b>Billy Idol</b> does <b>Frank Sinatra</b> doing <font color="#ffff00">White Christmas, Silver Bells</font> etc, not to mention the gem <font color="#ffff00">Frosty The Snowman</font>! (?)<br /> Good God! If you want a nice, family friendly, sweet and cheesy Christmas recording, buy <b>Frank Sinatra</b>. If you want rock n roll attitude, buy <b>Twisted Sister</b>, <font color="#00ffff">A Very Hairy Christmas</font>, <b>Lukather's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Santamental</font> or the <b>Screaming Santas</b>.<br /> Do not under any circumstances, buy this. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>My Chemical Romance</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Black Parade</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Reprise</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mychemicalromance-theblackparade.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.repriserecords.com" target="new">Reprise Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a thoroughly enjoyable modern rock album which mixes the popular modern punk-rock sound of bands like <b>Green Day</b> with a more complex classic rock style that brings influences like <b>Queen, Meatloaf</b> and <b>Styx</b> into play.<br /> The album is riding high atop of many charts around the world, which is no surprise given the style and the look of the band – extremely commercial and contemporary to say the least.<br /> It's a great album for what it is – commercial modern rock – but what I really love about this release is that it is exposing kids to some music which isn't filled with simple, throw away riffing.<br /> It is showing a younger generation that music is much more than a 2.5 minute pop song and that it can be far more complicated, layered and in-depth.<br /> Take the lead single <font color="#ffff00">Welcome To The Black Parade</font>. While the delivery is borrowed from <b>Green Day</b>, the band's songwriting depth is evident with <b>Queen</b>-like pomp and guitar parts and <b>Meatloaf</b> tempo changes, not to mention <b>Styx</b>-like layered vocals.<br /> Definitely a promising sign that there is an audience for a rock band that doesn't go by the book – well, not at least the current book. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#9b4e00" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Harem Scarem</b> <font color="#ffffff">Human Nature</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Vespa Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/haremscarem-humannature.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Harry Hess & Pete Lesperance</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 12</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.haremscarem.net" target="new">Harem Scarem</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>97%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">You can say what you like about any perceived bias towards <b>Harem Scarem</b> over the last few years in my reviews, but take a look at their creative output over the years – especially in the last 4 years since they took up the Scarem quest again – they are simply untouchable!<br /> The band has appealed to just about all melodic rock lovers over the years, so with each release there is a wide discussion about styles, sounds and individual preferences for different records throughout the Canadian bands career.<br /> Everyone has their favourites, and I continue to be blown away by their consistency. You can guarantee that every album will feature at least several new classic melodic rock songs and a few fresh twists too.<br /> This band keeps it interesting and for me, they deliver everything a melodic rock fan could want in a new record – soaring vocals, big choruses and a huge production every time.<br /> Preferences for direction and style aside, you cannot argue that each and every <b>Harem Scarem</b> record is the pinnacle of melodic rock quality.<br /> The band's last few albums have been extraordinary and I'd stack those albums up against any other artist for consistency.<br /> I feel of lot of what I have just written is for the purpose of justifying my enthusiastic endorsement of their music – but the fans don't need any convincing – so onto the contents of Human Nature.<br /> <b>Harem Scarem</b> have – in the past – received a few less than stellar reviews from me (the first <font color="#00ffff">Rubber</font> album for instance was a little hit or miss, as was <font color="#00ffff">Big Bang Theory</font>), but this is another total class release as far as I see it.<br /> I said the same of <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font>, but to my surprise, the majority seemed to disagree on that one! I guess many did not appreciate the band's move into darker, less commercial realms, but as a fan of the much underrated <font color="#00ffff">Voice Of Reason</font> album, I saw <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font> as a natural mix of the past and the band's more recent work. And I have always dug Harem's underlying dark vibe.<br /> My views aside, the voice of the fans reached the band. <font color="#00ffff">Human Nature</font> is therefore classic <b>Harem Scarem</b> in every sense.<br /> This is a far more melodic release and sees the band pump out some huge AOR harmonies, while mixing the production style and direction of recent work such as <font color="#00ffff">Weight Of The World</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font>.<br /> A band that has been recording this long is not likely to copy any one style, instead finding their music evolving into a mix of everything from their past. <font color="#00ffff">Human Nature</font> is just that – its part <font color="#00ffff">Harem Scarem</font>, part <font color="#00ffff">Weight Of The World</font>, part <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font>, part <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> and even part <font color="#00ffff">Rubber</font>, but always melodic and filled with hooks.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Album number 11 opens with that familiar guitar sound we've come to love and we are away. <font color="#00ffff">Human Nature</font> isn't in the band's usual style of opening with a punchy rocker. This is a mellower starter that builds to a glorious classic harmony filled <b>Harem Scarem</b> chorus.<br /> Making the point that this album is less on the hard rock and more on the melody, the title track does the job perfectly and becomes yet another instant Harem classic.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Next Time Around</font> is a little more urgent and rolls along at a nice pace. Once again, it is a perfect example of a great pop song – and does what these guys do best – gets to the point quickly. A mellower verse again gets rocking come chorus time - one I might add has a definite <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font> feel to it.<br /> The rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Caught Up In Your World</font> features another warm and inviting vocal from Harry, introduced by a hard edge riff, which returns for the chorus. This is an emotional track that features some fine guitar work from Pete.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Reality</font> is a straight forward mid-tempo melodic rocker in classic Harem style, with another great riff and melodies flying everywhere. The chorus reminds me of the very melodic run of tracks on second half of the <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font> album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hanging On</font> is an absolute monster ballad. This track rivals the best ballads the band has recorded in their illustrious past and overflows with passion and emotion. I love it and rate it as one of the best ballads of recent times. Comparing the band's recent ballads, this is better than <font color="#ffff80">All You're Getting</font> (from <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font>) and <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> (from <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font>) and is up there with <font color="#ffff80">This Ain't Over</font> (from <font color="#00ffff">Weight Of The World</font>) for class.<br /> The bridge and harmony vocals just add to the power of the song, which features a very demanding lead vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Don't Throw It Away</font> returns the album to a slightly rockier path, but still bathed in melodies. A punchy riff is accompanied by a swathe of harmony vocals and the chorus is another big and classic melodic Scarem anthem.<br /> Just as every Harem album in recent times features some injection of more modern influences, so to is there a track borrowing from <b>Queen</b>. The moody and mellow rocker <font color="#ffff00">Give Love / Get Love</font> is such a track. It's familiar, yet a little different at the same time and the punchy chorus is a clear tribute to the vocal styling of <b>Queen</b>.<br /> From there we delve into this album's modern rocker – <font color="#ffff00">21</font>. This moody and harder hitting track is reminiscent of the style and mood created on <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font>. It isn't as melodic as much of the rest of the album, but has its place and as already stated, I do like the darker side of the band.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Starlight</font> is typical of the band and won't be of any surprise to long time fans. It is of course, another solid track and acts as the required light and breezy melodic rocker with the catchy chorus, designed to punctuate the more left of center tracks around it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Going Under</font> is a great catchy commercial modern melodic rocker and although it compares with the band's second <b>Rubber</b> album (<font color="#00ffff">Ultra Feel</font>), it is so instantly catchy, I can't imagine any Harem fan not digging this.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tomorrow May Be Gone</font> closes out the European release in perfect and absolute magic form. This uptempo melodic rock anthem mixes up those <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> influences with something like <font color="#ffff80">Killing Me</font> from <font color="#00ffff">Weight Of The World</font> and <font color="#ffff80">Lost</font> from <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font>.<br /> One of the best tracks from the new album and a smashing way to finish any record. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Was there ever any doubt? <b>Harem Scarem</b> have done it again. But for those wary of the band's intentions and musical direction, be rest assured that this is a very melodic record and should rate up there with the bands best records.<br /> There are always calls for the guys to repeat their classic <font color="#00ffff">Moon Swings</font> album, but they haven't yet – and without that line-up back in place, they are unlikely to either.<br /> Rather this line-up has delivered the best possible fan pleasing album they can and I believe that has been achieved. Not quite a perfect record and perhaps nothing we haven't already heard from the guys, but hell, they just do this stuff so well.<br /> PS. I just got through listening to <font color="#00ffff">Overload</font> again – man, I still love that record! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Harem Scarem<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mood Swings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voice Of Reason<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Believe / Karma Cleansing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Bang Theory<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="haremscarem-rubber.p3">Rubber - Rubber</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rubber-ultrafeel.p3">Rubber - Ultra Feel</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="haremscarem-wotw.p3">Weight Of The World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="haremscarem-higher.p3">Higher</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="haremscarem-overload.p3">Overload</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Human Nature</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harry Hess:</b> Vocals, Keyboards, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pete Lesperance:</b> Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Creighton Doane:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barry Donaghy:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Darren Smith:</b> Background Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harem Scarem</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Human Nature <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next Time Around<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caught Up In Your World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reality <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hanging On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Throw It Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give Love Get Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 21<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Starlight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Going Under <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tomorrow May Be Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ca0000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Zion</b> <font color="#ffffff">Zion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD313 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/zion.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Freddy Curci</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> December 8</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>50%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Zion</b> is the comeback vehicle for Canadian AOR legend <b>Freddy Curci</b>. Freddy's career harks back to the late 70s with <b>Sheriff</b>, but is best known and best loved in these circles for the utterly classic <b>Alias</b> album.<br /> Two solo albums and the heavily traded demos for the unreleased second <b>Alias</b> album only added to the aura surrounding Curci's famed pitch-perfect vocals.<br /> An announcement many moons ago about a comeback rock album from Curci raised a lot of interest and a great deal of excitement.<br /> But how long have we now waited for this release? The most recent update on Freddy's very up to date website is from 2003 and states that <b>Zion</b> is nearing completion!<br /> So after more than 4 years waiting, it is with great anticipation that <b>Zion</b> is finally delivered to hungry fans.<br /> And because of that anticipation, there is going to be great disappointment upon hearing this album. It is simply not of a standard you would expect from someone of Freddy's pedigree and background.<br /> It disappoints in almost every department - from the average production quality, to the lack of killer songs to a very sub-par vocal performance, which at times is hard to listen to.<br /> Since the original announcement, Curci has suffered health problems where he feared he wouldn't be able to sing again, but why exactly this album took 5 years to complete is anyone's guess.<br /> It certainly doesn't sound as if 5 years of effort went into it. And I say that with a very heavy heart, as I am a huge fan of <b>Freddy Curci</b>. I own everything…and when I interviewed him a couple of years back, I found a very warm and humble guy to talk to.<br /> But the hard fact remains that this album is simply not what it should be.<br /> The original master was so bad I considered it unlistenable. Since then the recordings were sent to producer <b>Dennis Ward</b> to be remastered.<br /> Ward did a good job there – he evened out the album's sound and gave it some sense of professionalism. But while he can remaster the sound, he can't re-record some of the performances within, nor could he re-write some of the songs.<br /> And frankly, some of the production still suffers here, with poor tones affecting guitar and drum parts and lead vocals that at times sound as if they were recorded in a shed.<br /> It's all very upsetting for me as a long time fan to state these facts – and I imagine just as upsetting for the poor record label that invested considerable money and time in this venture.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">All It Takes Is A Minute</font> should be a contender for Song Of The Year. But it's not because it is simply assembled badly. I could forgive the hollow guitar sound and the crappy repetitive cymbal noise, but the chorus – which really could have been a monster – comes and goes with little effect due to some poorly arranged vocals and out of place harmonies. Then there are Freddy's lead vocals, which at times sound as if they were recorded in the shed out back, and at other times sound horribly strained. A tragic, if not criminal waste of a potentially great song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How Much Longer Is Forever</font> is a new version of a track recorded originally for the second <b>Alias</b> album. Again the song suffers sound issues, it appears muddy and a little muffled, again with the vocals being the worst offender. To be honest, the original demo is far superior in quality. On that track Curci's vocals are amazing. They simply are no longer what they once were.<br /> The second half of the album has some more redeeming features, but for now it just gets worse. The modern rock influenced <font color="#ffff00">One Man Alone</font> is horrible. And overly loud and bombastic intro is simply messy and the vocals are nothing less than painful to listen to. They are strained to the point of being unlistenable and clearly out of tune in other places.<br /> The uptempo rocker <font color="#ffff00">Dangerous</font> is a little easier on the ears. The sound is still muddy and the guitars hollow, but at least the vocals sound more comfortable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'm Running Home</font> sees the required elements of a good song align more favorably. This is a big rock ballad with a catchy chorus and a nice pick up in tempo towards the end. I'm not sold on the guitar sound, but there is some nice soloing here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Everybody's Watching</font> is possibly the heaviest thing I have ever heard Freddy sing and I like that vibe. The sound is still muddy, but the song at least has real attitude. This features a tough vocal and considering the earlier tracks, I am surprised Freddy holds it together.<br /> No Surprise is produced by <b>Fabrizio Grossi</b> and has that all too obvious guitar/drum sound he carries everywhere with him. A little modern rock influence creeps in here again including some vocal effects. The song really doesn't feature any great hook and is pretty forgettable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Sky Is Falling</font> is a straight ahead melodic rock with a terrific chorus and a better sound that I wish was carried through the whole album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Devil's Dance</font> is an intense mid-tempo ballad with a great lyric, solid hook and some passionate vocals at last.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Who Do You Think You Are</font> is another dark rocker with strong harmony vocals and a decent lead vocal. There's an <b>Alias</b> vibe to the track, but updated for the current year.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Crash The Mirror</font> is the darkest and most confronting song of the whole album. A great way to close out the record – the slow, moody and intense rock track features a piercing vocal that I wish there was more of on the album. It's not the <b>Freddy Curci</b> of old, but the song has balls. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Zion</b> is a major disappointment in a year where classic AOR albums have been few and far between. It is great to hear Freddy rocking again, but on the strength of this album and the time it took to get recorded and released, I don't expect to her another Curci record for a long long time. And that is truly saddening. He was one of the great AOR voices of our time. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Zion</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Freddy Curci:</b> Vocals, Drums, Bass, Guitar, Piano, Organ<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Scoleri, Jason Hook:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Marangoni, Joey Greco:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ken Malandrino, Jason Hook:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ross Greene:</b> Organ</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Freddy Curci</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> All It Takes Is A Minute<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Much Longer Is Forever<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Man Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dangerous<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm Running Home <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everybody's Watching<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Surprise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Sky Is Falling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Devil's Dance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who Do You Think You Are<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crash The Mirror <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#8000ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cosmo</b> <font color="#ffffff">Alien</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD312 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/cosmo-alien.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Fran & Antonio Cosmo</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.38</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> December 8</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>73%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The name <b>Cosmo</b> is now synonymous with AOR legends Boston. <b>Fran Cosmo</b> is of course one of the main voices behind <b>Boston's</b> last couple of studio albums and was frontman for <b>Orion The Hunter</b> (formed with <b>Boston's Barry Goudreau</b>).<br /> On the last studio album <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font>, Fran was joined by son <b>Antonio</b> (or Anthony), a partnership they have continued on into their own band.<br /> Naturally with so many connections to <b>Boston</b> - a band that defines classic rock – one could be forgiven for expecting the musical output of Cosmo to be of a similar nature. No so. Herein lies a challenge to the record label.<br /> With expectations of a classic rock themed album along the lines of the bombastic, melodic bliss of <b>Boston</b>, how does one advise that this album is nothing like Boston, nor in the same musical realm?<br /> If anyone buys this album on the strength of the name alone, with expectations of what they guys have delivered in their roles with Boston, you risk disappointment.<br /> Cosmo is not pink and fluffy – <b>Cosmo</b> is a modern rock band and in keeping with that, <font color="#00ffff">Alien</font> is filled with tuned-down guitars, at times aggressive riffing and modern rock production effects.<br /> There are a couple of melodic tracks here – not surprisingly they are the highlights of the album for me.<br /> The heavy rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Don't Tell Me Your Lies</font> has touches of classic, pomp and modern rock plus those <b>Boston</b> harmonies, and quite an epic feel. The chorus vocal is something else too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Helicopter</font> is an acoustic driven pop rock ballad with a glorious chorus and some well-timed lush harmony vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Woman</font> is also more melodic rock friendly, but compared to elsewhere on the album, these songs almost seem out of place.<br /> The consistent theme throughout the record is for aggressive riffs, a <b>Led Zeppelin</b>-goes-modern rock style of sound. Go no further than the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Communication</font> for an updated tribute to the kings of hard rock.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When I Close My Eyes</font> and <font color="#ffff00">No Surprise</font> are highlights of the modern portion of the album, but the rest are largely forgettable for me. The songs and more importantly, the choruses are just not consistently strong enough. And that I think is the album's biggest problem – lack of killer songs. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I know for a fact the guys are going to be disappointed with my review as are some others, but I believe firmly that a majority of others will largely agree. The guys don't pretend to be anything but a modern rock outfit, but you have to be aware of that going into this and I still believe that based on their past histories, there will be a number of people disappointed in the direction chosen. Add to that some songs that really lack a knockout punch. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Alien</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fran Cosmo:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Antonio Cosmo:</b> Backing Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Percussion, Samples<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pat Orlowski:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bill Carman:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mick Brooks:</b> Guitar</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fran Cosmo</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Communication <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Tell Me Your Lies <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Surprise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gravity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Redemption<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Helicopter <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alien<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When I Close My Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Woman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Run Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Creep<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Tell Me Your Lies (acoustic)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Rain</b> <font color="#ffffff">Stronger</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-178 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/rain-stronger.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Bormann</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">In order to review the second <b>Rain</b> album I had to return to the 2002 debut to refer my memory. That album has always been held in high regard by myself, but it is quite a different animal than the new album <font color="#00ffff">Stronger</font>.<br /> In fact, it wasn't until I completed my playback that I realized how different it was.<br /> There are many common threads between the records – the line-up being the most obvious – but both records have distinctly different feels.<br /> The debut was a catchy little album that featured a predominately acoustic base. It was written mainly by guitarist <b>Lars Forseth</b> and album contributor <b>Sonny Crow</b>.<br /> Then there is <font color="#00ffff">Stronger</font> – an album that generally sounds as if it is a heavier affair with a more contemporary sound and a much more pronounced contribution from singer <b>Michael Bormann</b>. He is responsible for delivering 5 songs himself and is involved in co-writing the rest of the material with lead guitarist <b>Tore Moren</b> and the rest of the band at times.<br /> The album's heavier edge is driven by a more obvious electric guitar component. In fact, the acoustic side seems toned down and then there is the darker more contemporary tone in place on several tunes – that's to start with though. As you get to know it, the album mellows somewhat and you can hear elements of the debut shine through.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Do You Like It</font> is somewhat of a surprising track to kick off the album - dark, slow, heavy and nothing like anything from the debut. It's probably a good choice then, as it sets up the feel and general approach of the album as a whole.<br /> The song itself features a strong, memorable vocal and although simple, the chorus remains catchy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Insobriety</font> lifts the tempo a little and isn't quite as dark as the opening track. There's definitely a Jaded Heart feel about this one which takes a few listens to appreciate.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Get Over It</font> is intense. That menacing guitar tone returns and the piano part is almost spooky. The track picks up speed and while the chorus isn't big or instant, it makes its point.<br /> This is probably a good point to lighten the mood a little and <font color="#ffff00">Crazy</font> does just that. A little acoustic works accompanies a strong verse melody and the catchy chorus sees electric guitars beef up the sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'd Die For You</font> is a pure power ballad with all the trimmings. A slow intro, a build up to a powerful ending, an emotional vocal and chorus – this could have fit easily onto any <b>Bon Jovi</b> album of the last 10 years.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Flesh And Blood</font> has that darker vibe again, yet a relatively free flowing tempo. It also features a great raspy vocal, some nice harmonies and a very strong chorus. It is one of my favorites of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let Me Be Your Favorite</font> is a straight ahead melodic hard rocker and positioned well within the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Other Side</font> is another very fine power ballad and comes at a juncture in the album where things take a softer turn.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Deserve It</font> is a feel good melodic rocker that could easily have come from the debut.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Right By Your Side</font> is a largely acoustic driven track that gives Bormann a chance to shine with a killer vocal. It also gives the last part of the album a vibe similar to that of the debut.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lovesong</font> closes out the album with another ballad – but this time a more uptempo rock ballad that again sounds like it was recorded for the last couple of <b>Bon Jovi</b> records. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This simply is a far more professionally recorded and produced affair with a more consistent musical theme. It makes for a great listen and I find myself liking this album more than the debut and even more than Michael's recent cool solo album. It may even have more in common with the last Bormann fronted Jaded Heart record, so I think there is a lot to like about this album for fans of all of the above. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rain-houseofdreams.p3">House Of Dreams</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stronger</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bormann:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitar, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lars Forseth:</b> Guitars, Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Per-Helge Bruvoll:</b> Drums, Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tore Moren:</b> Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rain</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bormann</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaded Heart</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Like It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Insobriety<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Over It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crazy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Die For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flesh And Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Be Your Favorite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Other Side <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Deserve<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right By Your Side <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovesong<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#896f63" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>RockStar Supernova</b> <font color="#ffffff">Supernova</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Burnett</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Epic</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/supernova.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Butch Walker</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.intothesupernova.com" target="new">Supernova</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>49%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>25%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The much talked about second season of <b>RockStar</b> ended as most had guessed – with the pre-picked <b>Lukas Rossi</b> "chosen" as the band's singer, edging out 15 other contenders.<br /> The show was thrown together in the weeks approaching deadline as the band producers really wanted (<b>Alice In Chains</b>) weren't interested. In flies Mr. Reality <b>Tommy Lee</b>, who through most of the show couldn't have appeared less interested – unless giving a few of the female singers suggestive remarks.<br /> He brought one time GNR guitarist <b>Gilby Clarke</b> with him and also former <b>Metallica</b> bassist <b>Jason Newstead</b>. In the producers chair and helping arrange, write and formulate the debut album for the band was <b>Butch Walker</b> – although he had the good sense to only appear on one episode of the TV show. The music for the debut album was recorded while the show ran and extra work -including (obviously) the vocals - was added towards the end and after the show.<br /> The result – an album as equally confused as the show was and with about as much lasting merit.<br /> The biggest problem with this album is that is just doesn't serve anyone.<br /> Modern rock fans aren't going to buy this. Melodic rock fans aren't going to warm to the modern influences. Nu-breed fans will just buy a <b>Butch Walker</b> album and get the real thing and fans of <b>Motley Crue, GNR</b> and <b>Metallica</b> are quite likely to die laughing when they here songs as lame as <font color="#ffff00">Leave The Lights On</font>.<br /> This gets my vote as the cheesiest song of the year and something that would never be seen on any other album featuring these guys.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">It's On</font> shows a little promise, the modern rock vibe and gnarly vocal summing up vibe created on the Rock Star TV show.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Be Yourself (and 5 Other Clichés)</font> is pretty good too – but let's face it – it's a <b>Butch Walker</b> tune that probably wouldn't have been deemed good enough to make his own solo albums.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's All Love</font> is also an ok track if not a little bland – a moody modern rock ballad that I could hear on radio and sees vocalist Lukas in good voice.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Can't Bring Myself To Light This Fuse</font> has the potential to be a monster ballad and features a surprisingly subtle vocal, but again, it sounds like a Butch Walker reject.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Headspin</font> made its debut on the show and is probably the band's best chance of any airplay. This is a solid commercial modern rock ballad.<br /> So they are the ok songs. Now for the songs that make you think WTF?<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Underdog</font> is a horrible modern rocker out of step with the rest of the album, going nowhere and doing nothing for the album whatsoever. The chorus riff was the theme song for the show, but nothing else stands out as remotely catchy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Make No Mistake...This Is the Take</font> is another lame track that sounds messy and without any redeeming hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Valentine</font> goes absolutely nowhere and <font color="#ffff00">Social Disgrace</font> follows the same path. Bland and forgettable modern rock that could be attributed to any number of other bands out there.<br /> The album is pretty bad throughout, but guys save the worst for last. <font color="#ffff00">The Dead Parade</font> is just horrid and one of the worst songs of the year. The chorus doesn't match the verse, the intro doesn't match the song and the bridge sounds like a piece of yet another song. Just horrible.<br /> There is just no personality on the record. The band was created out of nothing and clearly hasn't carved out a niche for themselves. Perhaps that will come from touring and then recording a second album, but if the first one fails and there is no record label, who would they actually make a record for? </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The vibe surrounding this formulated, thrown together band is that of an invite only boys club. Except no one else cares and no one wants to join in the "fun".<br /> I believe the biggest insult I could give the album is that it is largely pointless. It doesn't really cater to anyone and the song quality is that which would embarrass the members of the bands these guys are/were attached to. Despite talk of a follow-up album already underway, will anyone even care about this release enough to warrant a sequel? I say not. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Supernova</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lukas Rossi:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gilby Clarke:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Lee:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Newstead:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>RockStar TV show</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> It's On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leave the Lights On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Be Yourself (and 5 Other Cliches) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's All Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Bring Myself To Light This Fuse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Underdog<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make No Mistake...This Is the Take<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headspin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valentine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Social Disgrace<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Dead Parade<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#804000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Final Frontier</b> <font color="#ffffff">Freelight</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM141 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/finalfrontier-freelight.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Final Frontier</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56.14</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> <a href="http://www.finalfrontiermusic.com" target="new">Final Frontier</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Canadian saviours of pure, unadulterated 80s AOR, <b>Final Frontier</b> return for album number 4. It's the band's third label for their 4 albums, something I find a little perplexing. Granted the label involved for the first 2 albums was Z Records, but a band that delivers a high quality classic style AOR album at regular intervals, all of which are appreciated by fans, should not have to worry about what label they will be on from release to release.<br /> I hope that the guys find some comfort and satisfaction with current label <b>Escape Music</b>.<br /> In a sense this is a perfect album for Escape, a label built from a consistency on concentrating on AOR releases of a classic 80s nature.<br /> <b>Final Frontier</b> does not reinvent the wheel. They don't reinvent anything in fact. This is AOR by the numbers – no surprises here, but no disappointments either.<br /> Fans of the band's first 3 albums get more of the same here.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Freelight</font> is perhaps a little tougher than the first three – it features a more pronounced rhythm section and some impressive riffing from guitarists <b>Mladen (Von Groove)</b> and <b>Lawrence Falconer</b>. Mladen also provides bass and keyboards – the latter of which is, as usual, all over the record.<br /> <b>Rob Moratti</b> as usual delivers his flawless high pitch vocals, really going over the top in a few places! He has one seriously high voice at times.<br /> The album really gets off to a flying start, with the first 4 tracks flying along at good pace.<br /> The title track <font color="#ffff00">Freelight</font> and the moodier <font color="#ffff00">Foolish Pride</font> work best of these tracks for me, but it is the classic AOR ballad of <font color="#ffff00">I Hope You Don't Mind</font> that really delivers.<br /> Bringing back memories of mid-80s soundtrack hits, the sentimental ballad should be a fan favorite.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Someone's Watching You</font> is very close to the 80s sound of <b>Survivor</b>, as is the poppy feel-good <font color="#ffff00">All The Way</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Is Easy</font> is another very familiar sounding ballad, but the formula is fail-safe.<br /> I also rate the darker and more aggressive <font color="#ffff00">The Witches Mask</font> and the second bonus track – the emotional, stripped back ballad <font color="#ffff00">Delia</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I don't think this is a classic AOR album for the ages, but I do think it is a classy album for this age. It is a walk down memory lane and a look at what made us fans of this music in the first place in the 80s.<br /> If you haven't warmed to Rob Moratti's voice and the <b>Final Frontier</b> style through listening to their first three albums, then nothing <font color="#00ffff">Freelight</font> offers will convince you to change your mind. But, if you have found a spot in your heart for these guys, the Freelight will definitely impress. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="finalfrontier-thefirstwave.p3">The First Wave</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="finalfrontier-thesecondwave.p3">The Second Wave</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="finalfrontier-hightensionwire.p3">High Tension Wire</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freelight</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Moratti:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mladen:</b> Lead and Rhythm Guitars, Bass Guitar, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lawrence Falcomer:</b> Lead Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Howley:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Final Frontier</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Survivor</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>80s AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Freelight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dynamo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Foolish Pride <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only The Lonely<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Hope You Don't Mind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someone's Watching You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Is Easy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lion's Den<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Witches Mask<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Half Way Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Delia <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b8960c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Riot</b> <font color="#ffffff">Army Of One</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00028 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/riot-armyofone.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Riot</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 66.06</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.net" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Sometimes the best surprises come from expecting nothing. That's no slight on the good name of <b>Riot</b> or their long history, but I really didn't have any expectations either way upon receiving this album.<br /> But I've hardly stopped playing it ever since. With <font color="#00ffff">Army Of One</font>, Riot have delivered one of the melodic metal highlights of the year.<br /> Once again I find myself pondering why some albums work and some don't. It all comes down to the songs.<br /> There are 12 great songs here and I like the way they have been sequenced. The album tends to flow from the harder rocking tracks to more melodic tracks and back again, but with a consistent guitar presence there to keep things balanced.<br /> There is the frantically paced opener <font color="#ffff00">Army Of One</font> which leads into one of two very melodic songs, sandwiched between another solid hard rocker in <font color="#ffff00">Blinded</font>.<br /> Those melodic tracks are: <font color="#ffff00">Knocking At My Door</font> - a curious track to succeed the opening track, but it's infectious harmony filled feel good chorus is the perfect folly for the album's heavier intentions. Then the stand out melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">One More Alibi</font> features a terrific chorus with <b>Mike DiMeo's</b> warm and raspy voice doing a top job.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It All Falls Down</font> rocks at double-time again, moving into the soulful rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Helping Hand</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Mystic</font> then provides an excuse for guitarists <b>Mark Reale</b> and <b>Mike Flyntz</b> to duel at length.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shine</font> is another great melodic metal track with double kick drums wailing and the voice of DiMeo powering along in a way fans of <b>Mats Levin</b> will definitely appreciate.<br /> The reflective instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Stained Mirror</font> follows, which leads to the album closer – <font color="#ffff00">Darker side Of Night</font> - another solid rock track with a great melodic chorus. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> While the performances on the album are of the usual high standard you would expect from seasoned veterans, it feels like there is a great vibe happening on this record.<br /> You can't really explain that in words, but it just sounds like the band's confidence is high throughout the record. It's funny to review this with the knowledge that Mike has now joined <b>Masterplan</b>. That will prove to be an interesting listen sometime next year. In the meantime, enjoy this! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock City<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Narita<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire Down Under<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Restless Breed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thundersteel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Privilege of Power<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Breaker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Brethren of the Long House<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Inishmore<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="riot-sonsofsociety.html">Sons of Society</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through the Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Army of One</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike DiMeo:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Reale, Mike Flyntz:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frank Gilchrist:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pete Perez:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike DiMeo</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Riot</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Army Of One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Knockin At My Door <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blinded<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One More Alibi <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It All Falls Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Helpin Hand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Mystic <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Alive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alive In The City<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stained Mirror<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Darker Side Of Light<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff5959" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tom Cochrane</b> <font color="#ffffff">No Stranger</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal Music Canada</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tomcochrane-nostranger.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tom Cochrane</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.02</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.tomcochrane.com" target="new">Tom Cochrane</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>62%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>45%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>79%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Canadian Hall Of Famer <b>Tom Cochrane</b> is one of my musical heroes. Right up there with <b>Rick Springfield</b> and <b>John Waite</b>, Cochrane is a gifted singer/songwriter who has the ability (like those mentioned alongside him) to get directly to the heart of the matter and deliver moving, emotionally effective music – be it when he is rocking, delivering a feel good pop rocker, or getting deep on a powerful ballad.<br /> I rate 1987's <font color="#00ffff">Tom Cochrane & Red Rider</font> and 1995's <font color="#00ffff">Ragged Ass Road</font> as absolute classics, with several other albums not far behind.<br /> That's why it breaks my heart to speak of this album as a disappointment, but it is – in a big way.<br /> It has been 8 years since Tom's <font color="#00ffff">X-Ray Sierra</font> and in that time it seems that Tom has caught old-man's disease. He has forgotten how to rock.<br /> Actually, I can forgive the lack of rockers on the album, as that is just one side of Tom's musical personality. But the album is weighed down by slow and lackluster ballads, and relies all too much on an acoustic tone instead of Tom's usual electric fired delivery.<br /> The album as a whole sees a more stripped down approach taken. There are few overdubs used and a more live-in-the-studio feel is present.<br /> Tom's done this before mind you – he already has an acoustic live album to his name –which worked a treat, but the songs here just don't hold up as strong enough.<br /> The album's opening track – <font color="#ffff00">The Party's Not Over</font> is a sure fire commercial hit – and the albums only real uptempo rocker. Even here the more organic approach is evident, but the raw honestly in Tom's voice is a good trade-off.<br /> But from this point onwards it is all ballad territory. I'm quite fond of the second track <font color="#ffff00">Glide</font>, which as the title suggests, glides through the speakers and offers fans a feel good mid-tempo acoustic driven sample of the more mature songwriter Cochrane has become.<br /> Next up <font color="#ffff00">While You Are Young</font> might have done something for me – especially with the classic slide guitar and old-school Cochrane feel to it – but by the end of the album it gets lost among the sheer number of slow songs featured.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">White Horse</font> is another song that on its own has a lot of merit – a raw, honest vocal and a charming folkish influence, but in the scheme of the album has its impact limited. A slow track surrounded by slow tracks has difficulty in standing out.<br /> The adult contemporary mid-tempo rock song <font color="#ffff00">Didn't Mean</font> is the first single – an odd choice I thought, given the tempo. I should have guessed it meant that the album would not be what I was hoping for.<br /> I speak of my frustration with the dominance of ballads on this album. Two tracks that stand out as definite highlights match the slow tempo of the album, but offer something a little different.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rough and Tumble</font> is an acoustic song, but it has some fire in its belly – fitting it seems, as the song pays tribute to the Canadian troops fighting overseas and also makes several references to Cochrane's musical past. Great song…<br /> Another ballad follows up next, but <font color="#ffff00">Out of My Head</font> is one of the very best ballads that I have ever heard <b>Tom Cochrane</b> sing. Raw, emotional, heartfelt and a beautiful chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Deep Breath</font> follows, unfortunately continuing the album's ultra slow pace, but without the hooks of the last couple of songs. It kills the momentum built by the tracks before it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Northern Star</font> is better – still acoustic driven, but with a little more spark, a strong chorus and finally some electric guitar too.<br /> The last three songs are 3 of the more interesting tracks I have heard from Tom and proof that he can still turn it on and deliver in a harder hitting style – if he so chooses.<br /> The three songs run together, taking a similar musical theme of distorted guitar and bluesy vocal.<br /> Starting with <font color="#ffff00">Since You Left Me</font>, the song swaggers through to the instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Colour Blue</font> and into a cover of the psychedelic 70s rocker <font color="#ffff00">Spirit in the Sky</font>. I really don't like that song (probably due to ass-silly cover of it recorded in the late 80s), but I respect what Tom has done with it here and in sequence with the other 2 tracks, works a treat. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not a bad album by any stretch, but for me personally, still a big disappointment. <font color="#00ffff">No Stranger</font> simply misses the punch and passion of past records and suffers from an ultra slow pace, showing only glimpses of what I have loved from past records.<br /> I sure as hell hope it isn't 8 years until Cochrane decides to record again and next time – pick up the pace a little Tom. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On To Your Resistance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Fight It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Neruda<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Far As Siam<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breaking Curfew<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tom Cochrane & Red Rider<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vicotry Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mad Mad World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ragged Ass Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> X-Ray Sierra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Stranger</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Promo: Not Listed </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tom Cochrane</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Party's Not Over <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Glide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> While You Are Young<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> White Horse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Didn't Mean<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rough and Tumble <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out of My Head <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Deep Breath<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Northern Star<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Since You Left Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Colour Blue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spirit in the Sky<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#18edfe" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Richie Kotzen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into The Black</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD315 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/richiekotzen-intotheblack.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Richie Kotzen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> December 8</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.richiekotzen.com" target="new">Richie Kotzen</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Speaking of modern rock as I was in the <b>Cosmo</b> review, here is a guy that knows how to do it well. Better than just about anyone else in this scene and he does it with both passion and aggression, something not easily accomplished.<br /> And all the while <b>Richie Kotzen</b> keeps it melodic and accessible.<br /> Kotzen's style may not be for everyone, but to his fans I would think this album will rate as one of his best ever. Richie picks up where the Forty Deuce band album left off and adapts that albums style to his solo delivery.<br /> The album is summed up by the opening track <font color="#ffff00">You Can't Save Me</font> - brooding, intense, lyrically biting and passionate beyond belief. Richie lightens the mood just slightly for the great rock track <font color="#ffff00">Misunderstood</font>, featuring one of his best vocals to date.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Shadow</font> is cool too, but for different reasons. More classic rock melodies over a bluesy, yet commercial base.<br /> Kotzen's love of blues shines through even further on the moody ballad <font color="#ffff00">Till You Put Me Down</font>.<br /> Highlighting the excellent way this album has been sequenced, that moody theme continues through <font color="#ffff00">Sacred Ground</font>, but this time in the form of an angst ridden rock anthem.<br /> Rounding out the album is the seemingly happy go lucky acoustic driven <font color="#ffff00">Livin' In Bliss</font> and the blues rock <font color="#ffff00">My Angel</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Into The Black</font> sees Kotzen write, play and produce every note of the record. It is a personal statement and a challenging one at that. 10 songs, 7 or 8 different vibes, but one great performance. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I'm not sold on everything Richie does, but he never does anything by halves. Here he delivers 10 really solid tunes with lots of hooks in play – some subtle, some more direct – but always melodic. And the driving force behind the album is Richie's sublime guitar playing and rich soulful voice. Sometimes I can't pinpoint exactly why a record works as well as it does – but this album really works. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Richie Kotzen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fever Dream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Electric Joy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mother Heads Family Reunion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Inner Galactic Fusion Experience<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wave of Emotion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Something to Say<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What is<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bi Polar Blues<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Break it all Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviews-tobeindexed.html">Change</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="fortydeuce-nothingtolose.p3">Forty Deuce</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Acoustic Cuts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Into The Black</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richie Kotzen:</b> Everyting</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Forty Deuce</b> - Nothing To Lose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richie Kotzen</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> You Can't Save Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Misunderstood <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Shadow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Doin' What The Devil Says To Do<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Till You Put Me Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sacred Ground <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Lies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living In Bliss<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Angel<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Martin Briley</b> <font color="#ffffff">It Comes In Waves</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-177 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/martinbriley-itcomesinwaves.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Martin Briley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Westcoast / Pop</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>73%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>63%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">American based, but English born singer/songwriter <b>Martin Briley</b> isn't your average melodic rock artist. In fact, he isn't really a melodic rock artist at all. This is another curveball release from <b>MTM</b> that doesn't fit into the usual melodic rock mold. Briley's album is melodic, but in more of an acoustic driven folkish way.<br /> The album is very laid back – there are maybe 4 uptempo tracks, with 3 of those rocking along at a nice pace and the remainder of the album residing in slow to mid-tempo acoustic pop territory.<br /> He has a strong singer/songwriter vibe going on, the kind that mixes the rather anti-AOR entities of <b>Elvis Costello</b> and unplugged era <b>Eric Clapton</b> with a sometimes more AOR friendly Westcoast bent.<br /> The album is a one man band affair, with Briley performing and programming all of the album's musical contents.<br /> The guy knows how to write great lyrics. This is a very personal and reflective record. Check out the tongue in cheek <font color="#ffff00">Church Of Disney</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Me And My Invisible Friend</font>.<br /> The very pop/rock <font color="#ffff00">It Comes In Waves, Church Of Disney, Fake Horizon</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Invisible</font> are the highlights of the record and offer AOR fans some sweet, lad back harmonies, but elsewhere such as <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Think She Misses Me At All</font>, I find the album a little too soft, too slow and definitely too nice. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> One for fans of quiet, reflective and lyrically personal records. A couple of great AOR tunes are surrounded by more folk friendly pop songs, all set in a very relaxed and sparse setting. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear Of The Unknown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Night With A Stranger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dangerous Moments<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Comes In Waves</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Briley:</b> Vocals, All Programming & Instruments</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Westcoast Pop</b></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> It Comes in Waves <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Church of Disney <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Think She Misses Me At All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Me and My Invisible Friend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Massage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In the Dim Light of a Brand New Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Invisible<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pray For Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> That Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fake Horizon<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#594739" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Paul Stanley</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live To Win</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/paulstanley-livetowin.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Paul Stanley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 33.50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.kissonline.com" target="new">Kiss / Paul Stanley</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">It's taken nearly 20 years, but <b>Paul Stanley</b> has finally delivered his second solo album. Being familiar with the passion of some Kiss fans, I have no doubt there are some out there that have been looking forward to this release since the week after his debut was available.<br /> Built up over the last year or so as the <b>Kiss</b> album Kiss never made, or the greatest album of whatever year it would be released, Paul's new album finds itself desperately needing to live up to pre-release hype and expectation.<br /> I think <font color="#00ffff">Live To Win</font> delivers to the believers, but will fall short for the uninitiated. It also wavers a little unevenly between styles, at times not sure which way to drift.<br /> There is a lot to like about this album and overall, it is a very respectable piece of work. That said, there are obvious areas where things could and probably should have been improved, and then there is that question over the updated sound/production.<br /> Paul has desperately tried to fuse the classic <b>Kiss</b> style with a full-on modern rock approach and on parts of this album it works, but who is he really trying to appeal to?<br /> <b>Kiss</b> fans will buy anything and outsiders or casual fans will just be listening for great melodic songs.<br /> I'm not sure anyone looking to buy this album would choose a modern rock direction over a more classic sound. And if Paul updated things to be more commercially appealing, then he is listening to the wrong people.<br /> Thankfully the album does feature some very good songs.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Kicking off the album in fine style is the title track <font color="#ffff00">Live To Win</font>. The down-tuning is obvious from the first riff and the modern approach might have been of concern for some if a chorus from heaven had not punctuated proceedings.<br /> You can't ask for a better or catchier rock n roll anthem than Live To Win, which blends modern production effects and guitar tones with Stanley's classic sense of knowing what makes a song great.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lift</font> takes a darker turn and emphasizes the updated production values even further. The fact the song remains at mid-tempo and the chorus isn't as instant as the opener means that it could be a take it or leave it track for some. But it gets better with each listen and makes for a good partner for the opening track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When Wake Up Screaming</font> kicks in, one could be forgiven for thinking that perhaps Stanley has abandoned the classic Kiss style entirely. Loops, heavy guitars and effects provide the foundation, with Stanley's very likable voice providing the melodies.<br /> I love the very melodic tone of the verse - raspy and stripped of layers - moving then into another great anthemic chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Everytime I See You Around</font> is both the first ballad of the album and the first reference to the sound and style that made Stanley a household name. This is a classy and classic Kiss style ballad that should please all fans. Added string orchestration bolsters the sound and atmosphere.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bulletproof</font> is the second almost-Kiss classic in a row. This track could have made an appearance on <font color="#00ffff">Revenge, Hot In The Shade</font> or even <font color="#00ffff">Crazy Nights</font>. It is classic commercial hard rock without the modern influences to scare off long time fans.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All About You</font> sees <b>Paul Stanley</b> tread a thin line between the modern rock influences of the opening tracks and the more classic sound of the last couple of songs. Either way, the song has a good uptempo beat and a big chorus. Not that I'm overly impressed with the chorus…this to me is one of the more throw away tracks on the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Second To None</font> is anything but throw away. This is one of the best ballads of the year and is classic Stanley at his finest, emotional best. A soft verse gives way to a monster chorus with soaring vocals and more orchestration. Perfect!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's Not Me</font> features more production samples and a half-way sound similar to <font color="#ffff80">All About You</font>. Not a bad track and a good uptempo chorus, but another song that seems to go half way without fully committing. It could have been either heavier and even more updated, or more classic in style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Loving You Without You</font> is the third ballad of the record and another example of what <b>Paul Stanley</b> does best – deliver heartfelt songs with a positive message in a commercial melodic hard rock style that millions love.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Where Angels Dare</font> is another strong uptempo commercial rocker. The song builds early to a strong chorus and finishes the album in style. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Any album that runs at a mere 35 minutes and contains a couple of fillers is going to struggle for classic status. There should have been at least 12 tracks on offer here – with the two extra's needing to be quality uptempo rockers.<br /> But, viewing what is on offer I would have to say that I think most Stanley fans will be happy. A solid and enjoyable album that proves Stanley is the creative force behind <b>Kiss</b>. This is infinitely better than the <b>Gene Simmons</b> solo album, but could have been even better still. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Paul Stanley<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live To Win</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Promo: Not Listed </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kiss</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Stanley</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Live To Win <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lift<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wake Up Screaming <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everytime I See You Around <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bulletproof <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All About You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Second To None <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Not Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loving You Without You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Angels Dare<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#bb9111" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Andersson Mills Project</b> <font color="#ffffff">Crank It Up</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Z Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/anderssonmillsproject-crankitup.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Punk / Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.zrecords.net" target="new">Z Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>33%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>55%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>10%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I consider myself a fan of <b>Tony Mills</b> – his endeavors with <b>Shy</b> have always been rated highly here and the new <b>China Blue</b> project he is singing with is off to a very promising start with one song on the new <b>MelodicRock</b> compilation. 2007 will also deliver a new Mills fronted <b>TNT</b> album, so that should be interesting.<br /> But this, I'm afraid to say, is just dire. I respect Tony a great deal and have always found him to be open to criticism and varying opinions. But this really is a horrid release – but perhaps not for the most obvious reason.<br /> I'm an advocate for any artist to stretch their wings and experiment if they so wish and that is what <b>Tony Mills</b> does so here. Mills has previously dabbled with jazzy pop on his last solo album, but on this occasion, in cohorts with Swedish guitarist <b>Linkan Andersson</b>, the duo take a real left turn as far as what fans might usually expect.<br /> The <b>Andersson Mills Project</b> is primarily comprised of authentic American punk – influenced by the genre's 70s roots and delivered here with a definite enthusiasm for the style.<br /> It is going to take quite a bit of work for melodic rock fans to get their ears around a CD dominated by punk rhythms and modern rock influences, but the albums main problem doesn't stem from there.<br /> The style issue still allows room for a few songs to stand out as quality pieces and there are some things here that Mills fans can enjoy.<br /> I have been dancing around the main issue of contention. Everything else aside, the biggest problem with this album is that it sounds like shit.<br /> The production is just abysmal and I can only surmise that it only has been released because <b>Z Records</b> are desperate for anything to add to their release schedule.<br /> The sound quality within this record varies greatly but rarely rises above demo standard, tainted at times by massive distortion and a tone that just hurts to listen to for any length of time. Take <font color="#ffff00">Skin And Blood</font> for example. Yikes.<br /> The album takes a small turn towards a more familiar melodic path in the second half, passing through nu-breed in the middle. But will anyone get that far into the record? <font color="#ffff00">Nothing But Poison</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Head On Collision</font> give Mills fans some reward, but how many listeners or potential buyers will make it past track 3? </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Now that this has been reviewed, I won't ever listen to it again. Not for the songs or style, but because it is simply too hard on the ears. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Crank It Up</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Mills:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Linkan Andersson:</b> Guitars, Bass & Piano<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Fredrik:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Mills</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Crank It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Skin And Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Search And Destroy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Rights<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kill For Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Smile<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing But Poison <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Head On Collision <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anyone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Straight From The Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard To Beat<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleeding Heart<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a89686" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kevin Lee</b> <font color="#ffffff">Flip The Switch</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sigus Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">2006 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/kevinlee-fliptheswitch.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Josh Shapera</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 35.59</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Pop Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.kevinleeonline.com" target="new">Kevin Lee</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Kevin Lee's</b> musical history goes as far back as the early 90s with his <b>Lonesome City Kings</b> release via MCA. Since then he hasn't let up and tours constantly and has released one other full length record and a 6 track EP.<br /> Lee is your classic American mid-west rocker. The Chicago native soaks up the musical influences of that city to produce an uptempo guitar driven record with pop/rock comparisons to <b>Cheap Trick</b> and <b>Henry Lee Summer</b> (without the twang). Simply put - old school harmony and melody with today's production delivery and modern rock energy.<br /> I think this is his best album to date and will appeal to both straight ahead melodic rock fans and those partial to modern melodic pop/rock.<br /> Highlights include the nu-breed rocker <font color="#ffff00">Built To Burn</font>; the mellower and straight up <b>Brett Walker</b>-esque melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">Save Me Tonight</font>; the glorious pop <font color="#ffff00">All I Want</font> is rocker with a great chorus hook; the glammy <font color="#ffff00">Hollywood Trash</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Can't Believe You're Mine</font>.<br /> The album is consistent throughout, but you can't beat the first 4 or 5 tracks for quality. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The album isn't so modern as to be compared with <b>Butch Walker</b>, but nor is it 80s enough to be compared with the organic rock of <b>John Kilzer</b>. I'd say it is more <b>Brett Walker</b> meets <b>Henry Lee Summer</b> with a twist of moody <b>Cheap Trick</b>. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk A Mile In My Shoes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loaded<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flip The Switch</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevn Lee:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brent Seatter:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Levine:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Josh Shapera:</b> Bass, Keyboards, Percussion</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern power pop/rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Built To Burn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Want <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Believe Your Mine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Won't Shed A Tear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hollywood Trash<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strange<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She's On Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mr. Misery<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of The Line<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#84748b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>GPS</b> <font color="#ffffff">Window To The Soul</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Inside Out Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/gps-windowtothesoul.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John Payne</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 64.18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.insideoutmusic.com" target="new">Inside Out</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">It is really a shame how things worked out for the last concoction of <b>Asia</b>. The band really hit their straps with the <font color="#00ffff">Silent Nation</font> release and anticipation was high for the follow-up, which was near complete before being scuttled by the re-union of original Asia members.<br /> Still, that gave vocalist <b>John Payne</b> and fellow current <b>Asia</b> cohorts <b>Jay Schellen</b> and <b>Guthrie Govan</b> the impetus to get creative on their own project.<br /> For all intents and purposes, <b>GPS</b> is a natural progression from the musical base established by Silent Nation.<br /> I have read opinions of this album favoring it over <font color="#00ffff">Silent Nation</font> and others that still prefer the Asia record. I'm in that camp, but the difference is barely negotiable.<br /> Both are great records and <b>GPS</b> is going to bring a lot of joy to fans of that line-up.<br /> <b>Ryo Okumoto</b> (from Spock's Beard) steps in to replace <b>Geoff Downes</b> on keyboards and is the perfect man for the job.<br /> This is quite an epic album and one with considerable rewards for listeners willing to invest a little time in it. There isn't a track under the 5 minute mark and several around the 7 minute mark.<br /> It has a definite progressive and harder edge – more so than the last <b>Asia</b> album, while at the same time carrying over the melodic sensibilities of that line-up, not to mention the killer rhythm section, thanks to Payne (bass) and Schellen (drums).<br /> Opening with the edgy 7 minute rocker <font color="#00ffff">Window To The Soul</font>, the album turns left into <b>Asia</b> territory with the lush 8 minute AOR track <font color="#00ffff">New Jerusalem</font>.<br /> It gets even more melodic and rather emotional on the classy 8 minute rock ballad <font color="#00ffff">Heaven Can Wait</font>, which features some raspy, emotional vocals.<br /> Other album highlights include the Asia-esque <font color="#00ffff">Written On The Wind</font>; the rich arrangement of <font color="#00ffff">I Believe In Yesterday</font>; the commercial rocker <font color="#00ffff">All My Life</font>, complete with 80s feel; and the closing hard rocker <font color="#00ffff">Taken Dreams</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I can't help but think the album dips a little in the second half, but the opening 5 tracks are really nothing short of classic <b>John Payne</b> and sets this band up to be a dominant force in the world of melodic progressive rock. <b>GPS</b> is an instant winner for fans of recent Asia and for fans of vocalist <b>John Payne</b>. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Windows To The Soul</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Payne:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Guthrie Govan:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jay Schellen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ryo Okumoto:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Asia</b> - Silent Nation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Payne</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Window To The Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Jerusalem <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Can Wait <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Written On The Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Believe In Yesterday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Objector<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All My Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gold<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Since You've Been Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Taken Dreams<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#e65b5b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fatal Smile</b> <font color="#ffffff">Neo Natural Freaks</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">GMR Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/fatalsmile-neonaturalfreaks.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Joan Ostman</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.fatalsmile.com" target="new">Fatal Smile</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Swedish rockers <b>Fatal Smile</b> may not be a household name, but they deliver the bang for the buck and definitely deserve higher accolades.<br /> Back with their second album, the guys have turned it up 2 or 3 notches to produce a hard hitting, powerhouse melodic metal album with elements of classic European hard rock and <b>Metallica</b> like metal grunt, all wrapped in a contemporary delivery.<br /> This is not for the faint hearted, but for those that dig European hard rock / melodic metal, you will do well to check these guys out.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Neo Natural Freaks</font> is 10 tracks and 42 minutes of power.<br /> From the opening riffs of the furious title track, to the aggressive <font color="#ffff00">Crash And Burn</font>; to the thumping ear crunch of <font color="#ffff00">Learn Love Hate</font> to the catchy punk riffing of <font color="#ffff00">Common People</font> and the straight ahead hard rock of closing track <font color="#ffff00">11th Hour</font> – this album all attitude, all rock n roll and fuelled by the dynamic performances of guitarist <b>Y</b> and vocalist <b>HB Anderson</b> (ex-Scudiero). </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Swedish melodic metal has a new champion. Fatal Smile has recorded a thoroughly enjoyable record here and has given it a very contemporary feel while keeping the classic metal vibe. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Beyond Reality<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Neo Natural Freaks</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Promo: Not Listed </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Contemporary European hard rock / melodic metal</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Neo Natural Freaks <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleeding Kiss<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crash & Burn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Learn - Love - Hate <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Quiet Chaos<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Practice What You Preach<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dead Man Walking<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Colorblind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Common People<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 11th Hour <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#d56f09" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ruffians</b> <font color="#ffffff">Desert Of Tears</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00027 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ruffians-desertoftears.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40.51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> European Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.net" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>50%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">US metal merchants <b>Ruffians</b> return after splitting in 1989 to complete unfinished business. What they deliver in pretty standard melodic metal with a European influence in their sound.<br /> The record doesn't strike me as anything more than an average everyday release and it is made all the more average by a very ordinary singer who spends just a little too much time shouting.<br /> The band have obviously been raised on a diet of <b>Iron Maiden</b>, as the chug chug chugging of the guitar riffing is prime old-school Maiden. The acoustic <font color="#ffff00">It Ain't Over</font> offers some respite from the riffing, but I wouldn't call it a ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Believe</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Day Of The Champion</font> are probably the best picks, but the album does tend to plod along at the same pace throughout. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There's nothing overtly bad about this – it is just plain average. Average production, average singer and average songs. Too many other great metal releases out there to get carried away with this release. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Ruffians<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desert Of Tears</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rich Wilde:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Craig Behrhorst, Chris Atchinson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Luke Bowman:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Sisco:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> I Believe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Running Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Day Of The Champion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desert Of Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Will Fly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Darkest Of Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Ain't Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live By The Sword<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soldier's Fate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chosen One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#d5c27b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Billy Falcon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Made Man</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/billyfalcon-mademan.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Billy Falcon & Mike Spears</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Pop Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.billyfalcon.com" target="new">Billy Falcon</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Singer/Songwriter <b>Billy Falcon</b> returns for a new studio album that perhaps could be his best since the breakthrough <font color="#00ffff">Pretty Blue World</font> release more than 15 years ago.<br /> Joining him is guitarist <b>Bryan Hall</b>, drummer <b>Johnny Telucci</b> and bassist <b>Michael Spears (Blue Tears)</b>, who together make for a powerhouse bad – even if it is executed in a stripped back and acoustic dominated form.<br /> Billy retains the usual southern country / mid-western pop base as his musical theme, but <font color="#00ffff">Made Man</font> has feistier edge thanks to some more uptempo and electric based tracks – not too mention a discernable energy flowing through the speakers.<br /> From the opening southern rock of the title track <font color="#ffff00">Made Man</font>, the album sounds comfortable – like the guys are on a mission, armed with the knowledge this album features a great set of songs.<br /> There's the laid back, but electric driven soul of <font color="#ffff00">Sugar</font>; the <b>Tom Petty</b> influenced <font color="#ffff00">Happy Hour</font>; the emotional honestly of <font color="#ffff00">The Only One That Doesn't Know</font>, a track which runs right into the contrasting free flow rockabilly of <font color="#ffff00">Better Than A Girl</font>; plus the sparse, almost entirely acoustic double of the album's last two tracks. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Made Man</font> is an album that flows from the bare singer/songwriter acoustic vive, back to a more electric southern rock party vibe. It's a great album to sit back and relax to and sees a maturing <b>Billy Falcon</b> completely at home in his own skin and sounding better than ever. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning Rose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pretty Blue World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Letters From A Paper Ship<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Songs About Girls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Released<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Made Man</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Billy Falcon:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bryan Hall:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johnny Telucci:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Spears:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Singer/Songwriter pop rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Mellencamp</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Made Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mr. Smith<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sugar <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brick Of A Bridge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Happy Hour <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Friend<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Even Think About It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Only One That Doesn't Know<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better Than A Girl <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sinatra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rest Of The Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sweet Dream<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Big Cock</b> <font color="#ffffff">Big Cock</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Driver Wild Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BCCD01110-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bigcock.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> David Henzerling</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 37.37</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.bigcockrocks.com" target="new">Big Cock</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">World's worst band name, or good attention seeking tool? Your call, but either way, the name is pretty apt, as <b>Big Cock</b> sing classic 80s style hard rock songs, primarily involving the subject matter covered by their very name.<br /> If the band's name is too subtle, perhaps subtle song titles such as <font color="#ffff00">Fucked Up, Every Inch Of My Love, Booze & My Baby, Rock Hard, Let's Make Love</font> or <font color="#ffff00">Ride On Me</font> will convince you.<br /> Subject matter and lyrical content aside, Big Cock, featuring <b>Lynch Mob's Robert Mason</b> on vocals and <b>King Kobra</b> guitarist <b>Dave Henzerling</b> (a k a David Michael Phillips), deliver some great fun, take no prisoners old-school American hard rock.<br /> <b>Big Cock</b> rock like the 90s never existed. A simple guitar/bass/drum backing is accompanied by the sleaze friendly vocals of Mason.<br /> This is the band's second album and sees the guys repeating the formula of the debut. If you liked that – then this is an easy sell.<br /> Highlights this time around include the attitude filled <font color="#ffff00">Real Man</font>, the opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Fucked Up</font>; the sleazy <font color="#ffff00">Ride On Me</font>; the piss-take cover of <b>Paul Anka's</b> <font color="#ffff00">She's A Lady</font>; and the double time <b>Guns N Roses</b> styled rock n roll of <font color="#ffff00">So Easy Bein' Me</font>.<br /> There's even a ballad this time around – the warm and fuzzy <font color="#ffff00">Every Inch Of My Love</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There is no big production job here - this is straight ahead, no frills, live in the studio rock n roll, with plenty of energy and plenty of attitude. Not to be taken seriously and definitely to be enjoyed up loud. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Year Of The Cock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Cock</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Mason:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Henzerling:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Covington:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Colby:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Mason</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Early LA Guns</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fucked Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Real Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride On Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock Hard<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She's A Lady <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So Easy Bein' Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Every Inch Of My Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scottsdale Girls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Me Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Booze & My Baby<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let's Make Love<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#4218e7" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fraze Gang</b> <font color="#ffffff">Fraze Gang</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FG-01 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/frazegang.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Greg Fraser</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.36</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frazegang.com" target="new">Fraze Gang</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Brighton Rock</b> guitarist <b>Greg Fraser</b> returns to action with his new independently released outfit <b>Fraze Gang</b>.<br /> The guitarist turned singer puts in a good performance here, with a whole album of swirling riffs and solos and an old-school melodic hard rock feel to the music.<br /> And as it turns out, he is a pretty handy vocalist too. We are not talking smooth as silk here, but his tone and energy throughout the album is highly enjoyable and when he slows things down there is a definite warmth to his voice.<br /> In fact, Greg reminds me of a fellow Canadian guitarist turned occasional vocalist – <b>Loverboy's Paul Dean</b>. But that's not all – there must be an affliction between kindred spirits, as I also compare the sound of the album and Greg's voice to <b>Journey</b> guitarist <b>Neal Schon's</b> solo work – especially where he sings on his classic <font color="#00ffff">Late Nite</font> album.<br /> If it is not Schon's vocals I'm thinking of while listening to this album, then it is on some of the more straight ahead hard rocking moments of this album that I am reminded of <b>Paul Dean's</b> solo album from late 80s <font color="#00ffff">Hardcore</font> – especially the tone of Fraser's voice.<br /> So if you mix both those influences with the classic <b>Brighton Rock</b> sound – not that of their <font color="#00ffff">Love Machine</font> record – you'll get some feel for how Fraze gang sounds.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blow Me Away</font> is a fine old-school rocker with a bluesy swagger; <font color="#ffff00">Savior</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Broken Hero</font> pair up as a couple of very good more melodic tunes; Rainbow Eyes is a fine power ballad, although the production isn't as sharp as it could be; <font color="#ffff00">Paradise</font> and <font color="#ffff00">High Life</font> are both cool rockers that again bring <b>Paul Dean</b> comparisons; <font color="#ffff00">Stargazer</font> is another very melodic track with a good hook and <font color="#ffff00">Roll With The Punches</font> is another very strong mid-tempo rock ballad.<br /> There is another side of the album that comes to light on certain places. There is a slight bluesy influence over the whole album, but that pushes through on three tracks - <font color="#ffff00">Sugar Daddy, You Had It All</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Hot Rod</font>. These unfortunately don't quite work for me. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> As far as independently recorded and released records go, this one sounds great. It also features some good old-school melodic rock songs and a very likable lead vocal. Definitely one for <b>Brighton Rock</b> fans, but also one for those that miss the old days of American / Canadian hard rock. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fraze Gang</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Greg Fraser:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Phil Epp:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stevie Skreebs:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Dean</b> - Hardcore<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brighton Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blow Me Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Savior <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Hero <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sugar Daddy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rainbow Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Paradise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> High Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Stand Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Had It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stargazer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Roll With The Punches<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot Rod<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#577841" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Zeno</b> <font color="#ffffff">Runway To The Gods</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-176 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/zeno-runwaytothegods.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Zeno Roth</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">God, it's that bloke again! Vocalist <b>Michael Bormann</b> makes up for a quiet 12 months with his 3rd record in 2 months. And there is still <b>Redrum</b> to come early next year!<br /> In this case Bormann is the guest, providing the vocals for the songs written and played entirely by that talented German chap <b>Zeno Roth</b>.<br /> Zeno takes his time writing and recording new albums…a lot of time, so it is no surprise to find that some 8 years have now passed since the last album <font color="#00ffff">Listen To The Light</font>.<br /> A lot in the world has changed in that time – all expect for Zeno's style. He picks up exactly where he left off in 1998 – <font color="#00ffff">Runway To The Gods</font> is a natural successor to <font color="#00ffff">Listen To The Light</font>.<br /> As expected from fans of <b>Zeno</b>, this is a record dominated by intricate guitar play. Solos, riffing, overdubs and even more soloing and following that comes the swirling keyboards.<br /> Bormann simply steers the songs where they are supposed to go and gives them the added personality required.<br /> The album opens in typically bombastic style with <font color="#ffff00">Fanfares Of Love</font>, a song that begins with a flurry of guitars and simply gets more complex and over the top as it goes. The concluding minute and a half of this rocker is simply ridiculous! (I mean that in a good way!)<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Climb The Sky</font> pulls things back a little and <font color="#ffff00">Land Of Illusion</font> gets a little more melodic again. One thing is for sure – the 80s influence and the sound of previous <b>Zeno</b> records lives loud and strong in this new record.<br /> Highlights from elsewhere within the record include the big 6 minute plus rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Runway To The Gods</font>; the uptempo and pomp friendly <font color="#ffff00">Refugees (Longing For Paradise)</font>; the frantic and hard rocking <font color="#ffff00">I Feel – I Live</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Purify</font>, which features a killer vocal.<br /> The album also features to instrumental tracks - <font color="#ffff00">Sunset Birds Flying Home (Celestial Touchdown)</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Sogno Di Angelo</font>. Both are ok, but being a vocal fan, I find myself skipping these. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> If you liked Zeno before, you'll like <b>Zeno</b> now. Particularly if you are a fan of <font color="#00ffff">Listen To The Light</font>. I still have a definite soft spot for Zeno's debut and vocalist <b>Michael Flexig</b>, but the sound and style of this album is not far removed from anything he has recorded before. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Zeno<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Zenology<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Listen To The Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Zenology II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Runway To The Gods</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bormann:</b> All Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Zeno:</b> Guitars & All Instrumentation</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Zeno</b> - Listen To The Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bormann</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fanfares Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Climb The Sky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Land Of Illusion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shades Of Blue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Runway To The Gods <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sogno Di Angelo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Refugees (Longing For Paradise)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Feel - I Live <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Purify (Pilgrims Of Remembrance)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Feel The Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunset Birds Flying Home (Celestial Touchdown)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a91b1b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Wetton/Downes</b> <font color="#ffffff">Icon II - Rubicon</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD309 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/wettondownes-icon2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John Wetton & Geoff Downes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Two dodgy live albums had left me a little blasé about the <b>Asia</b> duo's new studio album.<br /> <b>Mr Wetton & Mr Downes</b> produced a rich, lush and very fine example of up to date AOR with their debut. Maybe it was a little slow, but it was quality. Then those two live albums really killed my enthusiasm for the guys.<br /> But the opening strains of this album renewed by enthusiasm in a heartbeat as this is what they do best and should stick to.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Die Is Cast</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Finger On The Trigger</font> finally see the guys get out of first gear and into a more uptempo realm. These are two seriously good songs. Both tracks make a great start to the album and for are 2 of the best tracks from the pair in many years. And for whatever reason, they both have an unmistakably 80s feel to them, something that it thought the debut didn't make obvious.<br /> Following on from those tracks, Reflections is another musically rich track and a very smooth ballad.<br /> I'm not sure what to make of the double-header that follows though. Two songs in a row feature <b>John Wetton</b> duetting with a <b>Anneke van Giersbergen</b> of <b>The Gathering</b>. <font color="#ffff00">To Catch A Theif</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Tears Of Joy</font> are both very slow and while both a quality pieces, they sound more like excerpts from a <b>Wetton</b> solo project.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shannon</font> sees the album get back on track, with the sound returning to the more expected.<br /> The soft, but layered harmonies and detailed orchestration of <font color="#ffff00">The Hanging Tree</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Glory Of Winning</font> are (as the song suggests) both winners for Wetton/Downes.<br /> The album drops the tempo through the mid-section and only picks it up to the point of where the debut sat for the remainder of the record. I would have liked to have heard a couple more faster moving tracks like the opening pair.<br /> That said, the closer <font color="#ffff00">Rubicon</font> may be stuck in that same mid-tempo sphere that the guys find comfortable, but it is a fine track to close the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Production is a little rougher than the debut and a little less layered, but the heart of the album revolves around the same premise - smooth, adult contemporary AOR. Overall, I think a mix of tracks from both studio albums would have made the perfect AOR release.<br /> Add in those two killer opening tracks and a more pronounced 80s influence through the record and you get an album that comes closer to the original Asia sound than any album since that band's early days. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Wetton / Downes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="wettondownes-icon.p3">Icon</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Acoustic TV Broadcast<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live - Never In A Million Years<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Icon II - Rubicon</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Wetton:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Geoffrey Downes:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Mitchell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Christey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hugh McDowell:</b> Cello</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Asia</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Die is Cast <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Finger on the Trigger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reflections (of my life) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Catch a Thief<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears of Joy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shannon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Hanging Tree<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Glory of Winning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Whirlpool<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rubicon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Thunder</b> <font color="#ffffff">Robert Johnson's Tombstone</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD308 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/thunder-robertjohnsonstombstone.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Luke Morley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.thunderonline.com" target="new">Thunder</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Being free-agents has allowed British rock greats <b>Thunder</b> the freedom to do as they please. That has seen them fall into a very productive period which has seen three albums released in relatively quick succession since the band first stormed back with <font color="#00ffff">Shooting At The Sun</font>.<br /> <b>Thunder</b> know what formula works for them and over the last couple of albums have concentrated on delivering songs in their traditional guitar driven style, with that unmistakable hard edge and a bluesy swagger.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Robert Johnson's Tombstone</font> continues that <b>Thunder</b> formula, so instantly you know who it is from the opening 30 seconds of the album and also that it will be a winner with fans.<br /> The very nature of the style and sound of this album hits the spot with this long time Thunder fan, and the sound quality (thanks to the well trained ears of <b>Luke Morley</b>) is equal to the best albums the guys have recorded.<br /> The only thing left to dissect is the quality of the songs. And the band don't disappoint there either, although I wouldn't rate this album quite as highly as the last two.<br /> Once again <b>Thunder</b> knows what works, so fans get the usual blend of high energy rockers with punchy guitar riffs (<font color="#ffff00">Dirty Dream, The Devil Made Me Do It, Andy Warhol Said, Stubborn Kinda Love</font>) and the odd blusier number (<font color="#ffff00">What A Beautiful Day, Last Man Standing</font> and the title track <font color="#ffff00">Robert Johnson's Tombstone</font>).<br /> And no one should forget to mention the soft acoustic driven ballads which start slow and end with a bang (<font color="#ffff00">A Million Miles, It's All About You</font>) and the very tender and reflective ballad <font color="#ffff00">My Darkest Hour</font>, which shows an emotional maturity in the vocals of frontman <b>Danny Bowles</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Otherwise, no shock and no real change of game plan for <b>Thunder</b>, which will please long time fans and recent converts alike. They genuinely are one of the most consistent bands in the scene right now and while I prefer the last album over this one, Thunder have again delivered another high quality, top notch record.<br /> I might add for whatever reason I feel necessary, that the album title is not the best the band has come up with and the cover art is just plain silly. There – I've said it now! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Backstreet Symphony<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Laughing On Judgement Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Behind Closed Doors<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thrill Of It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thunder-givingthegameaway.html">Giving The Game Away</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thunder-shootingatthesun.p3">Shooting At The Sun</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thunder-themagnificentseventh.p3">The Magnificent Seventh</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Robert Johnson's Tombstone</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danny Bowes:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Luke Morley:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ben Mathews:</b> Rhythm Guitar, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harry James:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Childs:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thunder</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British Melodic Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Robert Johnson's Tombstone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty Dream <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Million Faces<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Wanna Talk About Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Devil Made Me Do It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Man Standing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Darkest Hour <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Andy Warhol Said<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What a Beautiful Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's All About You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stubborn Kinda Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pretty Maids</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wake Up To The Real World</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD307 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/prettymaids-wakeuptotherealworld.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Pretty Maids</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Great record this one – but I had to re-check what I was listening to a couple of times.<br /> Danish rockers <b>Pretty Maids</b> have re-grouped after a 4 year break and returned with a fresh, updated sound that could see them pick up some new fans. The band's sound has been updated a little and the album swaps back and forth between the expected European melodic hard rock and some modern rock influences.<br /> The changes within this album work well for the guys and I don't think they are at risk of losing any old fans, as at the heart of the record is some good old-fashioned, likable songs.<br /> The band sticks to their tried and true sound on the opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Wake Up To The Real World</font> and the double time rocker <font color="#ffff00">Why Die For A Lie</font> and the in-your-face <font color="#ffff00">Terminal Violence</font>, not to mention the slow and moody <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Strangers</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Am The End</font> is a mixture of modern rock and melodic metal which works quite well for the guys. It has an aggressive yet melodic feel and the vocals of <b>Ronnie Atkins</b> are perfect for the style.<br /> The mid-tempo modern rocker <font color="#ffff00">As Guilty As You</font> sees the sound modernized even further while at the same time, the melodic hooks are turned up again. <font color="#ffff00">Such A Rush</font> is classic European melodic rock while <font color="#ffff00">Where Beauty Lies</font> is a passionate and heartfelt rock ballad.<br /> And the closing number <font color="#ffff00">Another Shot Of Your Love</font> is a great melodic rock ballad, with a thoroughly commercial hook. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Some good decisions were made in writing this album. Plenty of the old with a little of the new, all the time making sure whatever was recorded suited the band and importantly, the fan also. I think those fans are going to dig this and I think the band have started a new chapter of their existence with this album. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Pretty Maids<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Red, Hot And Heavy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Future World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jump The Gun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sin Decade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stripped<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spooked<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Overdoing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carpe Diem<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Planet Panic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wake Up To The Real World</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronnie Atkins:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ken Hammer:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Allan Tschicaja:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ken Jackson:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pretty Maids</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Europan Melodic Hard Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Wake Up To The Real World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All In The Name of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am The End<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Guilty As You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Why Die For A Lie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Such A Rush <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where True Beauty Lies <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brave Young New Breed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Terminal Violence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Perfect Strangers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Shot Of You Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b18910" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Michael Bormann</b> <font color="#ffffff">Conspiracy</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">NL Distribution</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/michaelbormann-conspiracy.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Bormann</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62.16</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.michaelbormann.de" target="new">Michael Bormann</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">One of the melodic rock scene's favourite vocalists is former <b>Jaded Heart</b> frontman <b>Michael Bormann</b>.<br /> He's had some time away, but now returns with not one, but four new projects, the first of which is his brand new solo album <font color="#00ffff">Conspiracy</font>. Not surprisingly the album's lyrical content is dominated by the singer's frustration in being ousted from the band he fronted for many years.<br /> But thankfully for <b>Jaded Heart</b> fans, Michael continues on as a solo artist in much the same musical vein as the last few Jaded Heart records.<br /> The songs featured here really are very good. Some quality melodic hard rock and some fine ballads. The only problem for me is that at times the guitar sound sounds a little thin in places, especially on the heavier tracks where more bottom end is needed.<br /> This reflects on the overall production quality.<br /> I think there is some great guitar moments on here though – plenty of solos and some great standout riffs.<br /> Highlights from the alum include the opening title track <font color="#ffff00">Conspiracy</font>, a lyrically biting affair with a hard hitting chorus; <font color="#ffff00">Stand Up</font>, which has a great Jaded Heart style chorus and some fine lead vocals; <font color="#ffff00">Two Of A Kind</font> is a good ballad in duet with (I believe) <b>Anette Blyckert</b> from <b>Alyson Avenue</b>; <font color="#ffff00">Living Just A Lie</font> is one of Michael's best rocking anthem's in a long while…great stuff indeed.<br /> The album mellows at this point for a few good more laid back rock tracks. <font color="#ffff00">Reaching Out</font> is another high quality track, this time a more reflective rock ballad and <font color="#ffff00">On Man One Soul</font> is a perfect moody, venom-laced rock track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">So This Could Be You</font> continues that moody dark vibe and <font color="#ffff00">Amazing</font> is a bluesy power ballad of sorts. The closing number <font color="#ffff00">Samirangel</font> is a haunting acoustic piece which closes the album in melancholy style. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not the best overall sound quality I have heard from <b>Michael Bormann</b>, but a solid album with some definite highlights and more than enough strong material to keep all fans of Bormann happy. Definitely one for Jaded Heart fans and an opportunity to hear the other side of the unfortunate break up. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Michael Bormann<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Conspiracy<br /> + work with Jaded Heart / Rain / Zeno & Redrum</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Promo: Not Listed </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bormann</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaded Heart</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Conspiracy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Only Physical<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Two Of A Kind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Regrets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil´s Son<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain´t Just A Bit<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living Just A Lie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reaching Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Man One Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So This Could Be You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Amazing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Samirangel<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#00bb00" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Love Child</b> <font color="#ffffff">Soul Collector</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM139 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/lovechild-soulcollector.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Love Child</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.46</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> European Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Love Child</b> is without any doubt the first rock band I have reviewed that herald from the land of Liechtenstein. This European melodic hard rock outfit have pretty much got things right as far as getting their music across in the best possible fashion, with decent production quality and an even mix.<br /> The band's guitarist knows his way around his instrument and the band's general rocking approach can be appreciated.<br /> Two things need work though. The band just need that little something extra to draw the listener back in for more after some impressive riffs and a decent sound. More consistency in the choruses is what I speak of.<br /> The other thing is that the singer, for me, isn't someone I would spend a lot of my time listening to. The accent on his vocal isn't my thing and I generally just don't like the rough and gruff approach.<br /> The singer is ok, but you must be tuned in to his style and method of delivery to apreciate.<br /> After rocking out for the opening 4 tracks (in pretty good style) the band get a little more melodic on <font color="#ffff00">Sunset Rider</font>. It suits them. This continues through <font color="#ffff00">No Return</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Battlefield</font>, making the mid-section of this release the highlight for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Promised Land</font> is one of the better rockers, played out in fine traditional European hard rock style and <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Train</font> features some good melodic guitar work. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Personal issues with the singer aside, this is a solid debut. It gets better as the album goes along. The more hard rocking material is stacked up front, but that's perhaps where the band doesn't quite nail it. As the album progresses and gets more melodic, the quality picks up. There is nothing new here, I have heard it all before, but for fans of European hard rock, the alum does offer some quality moments. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Soul Collector</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Werner Schweizer:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roger Kauffmann:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danny Zimmermann:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sven Sieber:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Prisoner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Perfect Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soul Collector<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Left on the Outside<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunset Rider <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Return<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Battlefield <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Line on Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Promised Land <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Train<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Close<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#be9a0c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Styx & The CYO</b> <font color="#ffffff">One With Everything</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="30%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> FRCD311 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/styx-cyolive-cd.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Styx & Charlie Brusco</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 74.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.styxworld.com" target="new">Styx</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I didn't have any real expectations for this live record – yet another diversion from the band releasing new studio product (5 live albums and a couple of compilations in between a mere 2 studio albums) – and it is sadly only a portion of the whole live event. You'll hear and (obviously) see more on the DVD release.<br /> I imagine most <b>Styx</b> die-hards will be happy, as it certainly is a quality release. Just a couple of issues however –<br /> First problem is the repetition of the same old songs again. The <b>Styx</b> catalogue is so vast and yes, there is only 75 minutes available for a single disk release, and yes, you can hardly leave some of these tracks off – but overall I found the track list to be less than inspiring.<br /> Secondly, while I was one of the few that found the band's last record – the covers release – to be enjoyable, I'm wasn't a fan of the 3 individual tracks chosen to represent that album here.<br /> Those points made, the album is still enjoyable for what it is and <b>Styx</b> are a lean mean touring machine and as always are tight as hell on stage – even with the addition of a whole orchestra of extra members.<br /> That orchestra is the very reason for this release. This live performance comes from a pairing of the band with the <b>Children's Youth Orchestra</b>, who add that symphonic touch to the band's music – which let's face it – is a very natural fit.<br /> At times these extremely talented kids are the driving force behind the songs, but at other times they are being drowned out a little.<br /> Highlights include what they do with <font color="#ffff00">Blue Collar Man</font>…fabulous; as is the extended <font color="#ffff00">Fooling Yourself</font> and newer track <font color="#ffff00">One With Everything</font> – itself a great little melodic anthem with a technical hook. The extended instrumental break with the orchestra here is musical class.<br /> The two news songs are <font color="#ffff00">Everything All The Time</font>, which has a lot of energy and a decent hook. The studio cut ballad <font color="#ffff00">Just Be</font> doesn't do anything for me though. Tommy's voice sounds as strong as ever, but the song doesn't have that 'play me again' hook to draw you in.<br /> The closing 4 tracks – <font color="#ffff00">Crystal Ball, Too Much Time, Miss America</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Renegade</font> are a sure fire way to end with a bang, 4 classics back to back with the orchestral twist adding some freshness. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is another ok live album, thankfully with an extra twist to give it purpose and give fans something new to absorb. I guess I am really hanging out for an all new studio album to hear what the great <b>Ricky Phillips</b> can bring to the band and also the fact that the band's last all original studio was so good, it seems a crime to have such a gap between that and a new record. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="styx-archallies.p3">Arch Allies</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="styx-bravenewworld.p3">Brave New World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="styx-styxworld.html">Styxworld</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="styx-cyclorama.p3">Cyclorama</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="styx-bigbangtheory.p3">Big Bang Theory</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One With Everything</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Shaw:</b> Guitars & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Young:</b> Guitars & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Todd Sucherman:</b> Drums, Percussion & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ricky Phillips:</b> Bass & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lawrence Gowan:</b> Keyboards & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chuck Panozzo:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Styx</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Live w/Orchestra Releases</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Collar Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One With Everything <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Don't Make Sense (You Can't Make Peace)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everything All The Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am The Walrus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just Be<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Boat On The River<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Need No Doctor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crystal Ball<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Much Time On My Hands <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Miss America<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Renegade<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Iron Maiden</b> <font color="#ffffff">A Matter Of Life And Death</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">EMI</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ironmaiden-lifeordeath.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Kevin Shirley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Heavy Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.ironmaiden.com" target="new">Iron Maiden</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Good album - much better effort than the last one and an improvement in sonic quality also. In this case I have handed over the review to Mick Ward, whose metal reviews are occasionally featured here. He is a massive Maiden, fan, so who better to analyze this release. Over to Mick:<br /> <br /> <b>Review By Mick Ward.</b><br /> <br /> 'For the passion, for the glory, For the memories, for the money, You're a soldier, for your country, What's the difference, all the same…These colours don't run, from cold bloody war.'<br /> Indeed!<br /> Once typical barnstorming opener <font color="#ffff00">Different Worlds</font> makes way for <font color="#ffff00">These Colours Don't Run</font> it becomes quite clear that Maiden are out for blood. These veterans haven't sounded so bold, angry and dark, nor as energetic since in their 80's heyday. <font color="#00ffff">A Matter of Life and Death</font> is a chaotic album of exceptional proportions, epic ambitious and brimming with certainty. It muscles its way in with such controlled aggression even repeated listens don't ease the burden of selecting the better tracks. <font color="#00ffff">A Matter of Life and Death</font> is certainly the most consistent and convincing Maiden has sounded for a very, very long time!<br /> The album mostly focuses on the chaos of war, but I can't remember when <b>Iron Maiden</b> has sounded so lyrically compelling. Not afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves, the band has delivered a stirring, thought-provoking album, one that never sounds forced. If the lyrics above for <font color="#ffff00">These Colours Don't Run</font> didn't convince you, for credentials look no further than <b>Steve Harris'</b> <font color="#ffff00">For the Greater Good of God</font>.<br /> 'Are you man of peace or man of holy war, Too many sides to you, Don't know which anymore'.<br /> Or its closing lyrics…<br /> 'He gave his life for us he fell upon the cross, To die for all of those who never mourn his loss, It wasn't meant for us to feel the pain again, Tell me why…'<br /> The progressive leanings on <font color="#00ffff">A Matter of Life and Death</font> are out front and almost every song contorts and ascends into something that, while typical of Maiden, also manages to remain stimulating and unique.<br /> Some may be disheartened by the longer than lengthy songs on offer here, but when considering the depth of each of these tunes, it can be appreciated why this is. Whilst <font color="#ffff00">The Pilgrim</font> is a storming number reminiscent of the <font color="#00ffff">Powerlsave</font> era that clocks in just over five minutes, at the other end of the scale <font color="#ffff00">The Legacy</font> for example cracks the nine minute mark. Yet The Legacy is crammed with such impressive progression and brilliance it is worth its every second.<br /> Song-wise the only possible glitch is the inclusion of the Dickinson solo sounding track <font color="#ffff00">Out of the Shadows</font>. With its sly wink back to his very own <font color="#ffff80">Tears of a Dragon</font> amongst others, the tune is slightly alienated from the rest of the album due to nothing more than sounding like you've heard it before. Other than that, it's a fine song. To put it simply each song on <font color="#00ffff">A Matter of Life and Death</font> is worthy of mention and dissection but I don't have anywhere near the space here to do the songs the justice they truly deserve.<br /> Take it as a given that each and every composition is magnificent and shows Maiden are finally moving forward while at the same time ensuring to respect their history.<br /> The idea not to mix the album was wise. In doing so the album doesn't come across as over produced and remains raw and live, helping the band to sound tight and like a unit. And if on occasion Dickinson sounds like he is straining then that's good because he sounds real and better for it! He hasn't sounded this good, so cutting, so insane and brilliant in years.<br /> The packaging is top notch (make sure to grab your limited edition with DVD bonus!) and it is quite fitting that while the album boasts some fantastic artwork typical of an <b>Iron Maiden</b> album cover, the band are photographed in normal attire in an everyday setting, no window dressing, just letting the music speak for itself. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> An intense and challenging listen, <font color="#00ffff">A Matter of Life and Death</font> is a noble effort that quite frankly elevates itself well above its contemporaries and a good portion of the band's very own back catalogue, Maiden having set themselves a new benchmark. It is an album that will stand well next to any Maiden classic and it is the album that has finally cemented the return of the world's number one metal band. Rejoice!<br /> Oh, and on that subject matter of war… Here then stand the victors! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Recent Discography</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Brave New World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ironmaiden-danceofdeath.p3">Dance Of Death</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Matter Of Life And Death</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bruce Dickinson:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Adrian Smith, Dave Murray, Janick Gers:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nicko McBrain:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Harris:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Up The Irons!</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Different World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> These Colours Don't Run <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brighter Than a Thousand Suns<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pilgrim <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Longest Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out of the Shadows<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reincarnation of Benjamin Breeg<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For the Greater Good of God <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lord of Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Legacy<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Talisman</b> <font color="#ffffff">7</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD304 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/talisman-7.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jeff Scott Soto & Marcel Jacob</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.35</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.jeffscottsoto.com" target="new">JSS</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>97%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>99%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Someone once wrote to me and said I had a bias towards <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> and <b>Harem Scarem</b>. Sure, but I prefer to think of it as a bias towards great music and as far as I am concerned these two artists rarely put a foot wrong.<br /> So read whatever bias into this you may, but I don't think for one second that any long time <b>Talisman</b> fan is going to disagree.<br /> Sure, not all may agree with my assessment that this is Talisman's best record ever, but I am supremely confident that it will at least rank as one of the band's very best for all fans.<br /> And with vocalist <b>Jeff Scott Soto's</b> foray into <b>Journey</b>, there is for the first time in a long time, a whole stack of new fans about to discover this side of his musical personality.<br /> These folk could not have picked a better album to come on board to, as <b>Talisman</b> <font color="#00ffff">7</font> delivers 11 classic melodic hard rock tracks that collectively add up to a truly wild ride through the many facets of Jeff and <b>Talisman's</b> history.<br /> The best thing about <font color="#00ffff">7</font> is the fact the band sound as fresh as if this was there debut album, yet it draws on the experience gathered over 6 previous studio albums and some 15+ years together.<br /> Musically speaking the album touches on all the band's recognized trademarks and a few of Jeff's own, while trying a couple of new things which I think will really impress listeners.<br /> The guys took their time writing this record and it shows. I think it is the most consistent album from the band as each of the 11 tracks delivers something different and no sooner do you get to the end of the record, you want to play it again from the start.<br /> <b>Marcel Jacob</b> is a revelation on this record, providing most of the guitar parts as well as his usual impressive bass work.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> The modern almost punky feel to the opening of the album with <font color="#ffff00">Falling</font> initially caught me off guard, but feels natural once you get to know the album. JSS' powerhouse vocals drive the song through its thrashy beat into a chorus that also gets better each spin and features a nice punchy rhythm section.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere Fast</font> kicks off with one of the more thumping bass lines in recent memory and slips into a classic Talisman groove, accompanied by a quirky guitar riff that sets up the song melody. The chorus is more instant and one I love hearing. Jeff's vocals are his typical style - attitude laced with soul and really are quite something. He sounds so at home and so comfortable with this material.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rhyme or Reason</font> has the same production vibe and style, not to mention the same moody groove as the band's previous cover of <b>Seal's</b> <font color="#ffff80">Crazy</font>. The sultry vocals and the intensity of the bass and guitar interplay are not the most commercial of combinations, but anyone that knows Talisman knows this groove and the song is a real grower.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">End Of The Line</font> features another killer bass riff which opens up into a flurry of drums before a truly funky rhythm and lead vocal takes over the song. The chorus is pure JSS gold – layered vocals, great lift in tempo and vocal range, all the while rolling along with a classic groove.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The 1 I'm Living 4</font> is one of the places within the album were the band try something new. And boy, does this track work. This is a new Talisman classic and for those Journey fans coming on board, this is where that band could take some lead from. The song is a mid-tempo melodic rocker, featuring a wonderfully soulful lead vocal that starts low and builds throughout the song.<br /> There is an underlying soft and sultry vibe and that unmistakable <b>Marcel Jacob</b> groove, but it is all wrapped up in a feel good melody that is impossible not to love first listen.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">On My Way</font> is more or less classic JSS. A perfect answer to the last couple of moody tracks, this uptempo pop rocker is a feel good anthem with a perfect commercial pop chorus. Given the intensity of the album as a whole, this is a great mid-album circuit breaker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Forevermore</font> is one of two big ballads on the album. Talisman generally aren't known for their sentimental ballads, but here they deliver two cracking examples. This is a brilliant ballad with a big harmony filled chorus and some nice piano parts. Definitely more comparable with JSS solo material, the band makes it their own with that classic groove.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Succumb 2 My Desire</font> is perhaps the funkiest Talisman track ever. And that's saying something. This has such an infectious groove, it is simply impossible not to dig it.<br /> There are a few different parts to the song – the soulful funk rock of the verse, the uptempo groove of the bridge and then the even faster chorus. Then there is the brilliant James Brown funk of the latter part of the song which I can't get enough of.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shed A Tear Goodbye</font> is another track which I think is something as little different for the band – which let's face it – has never been afraid to try something different. A soulful intro bursts to life into another uptempo, very commercial rock track with a great verse-bridge-chorus set up. The songs has a definite feel good vibe to it and the chorus is one of the more instant featured on the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Troubled Water</font> is a mix of classic Talisman groove, with a more modern musical base and production style. A more straight ahead rock verse gives way to a funky chorus, which then morphs back into the next verse. It is an interesting song that keeps the listeners attention.<br /> The band closes the album with the second big ballad. Back 2 The Feeling is a soulful and passionate rock ballad with a killer vocal and some fine guitar work. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I love it – big surprise there! But seriously, this is for me the best <b>Talisman</b> album to date and one of the true highlights of 2006. I expected it to be great, but I'm happy to say that the album exceeds my expectations and I believe there are going to be a lot of fans – old and new – out there that feel the very same way. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Talisman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Genesis<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Humanimal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Humanimal II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="talisman-truth.html">Truth</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="talisman-liveatswedenrock.html">Sweden Rock Festival</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Five Men Live<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 7</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Scott Soto:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fredrik Akesson:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jamie Borger:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcel Jacob:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Talisman</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>JSS</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Humanimal</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nowhere Fast <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rhyme or Reason<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of The Line <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The 1 I'm Living 4 <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On My Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forevermore<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Succumb 2 My Desire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shed A Tear Goodbye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Troubled Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back 2 The Feeling<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Winger</b> <font color="#ffffff">IV</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD305 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/winger-iv.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Kip Winger</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.kipwinger.com" target="new">Kip Winger</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is an interesting one. Not too many expected to even hear a new <b>Winger</b> album in 2006, so the fact I'm sitting here reviewing this is a feat in itself. <b>Winger</b> left the scene on the back of a killer album – <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font>. It is an album that has become a cult classic – I think a majority of the band's fans claim the album to be their best ever – which I for one agree.<br /> Sadly though, grunge had already hit and the band's new found intensity and maturity on that record was only heard by a fraction of what the potential audience should and could have been.<br /> So with unfinished business at hand, the band has reformed the <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font> line-up, with the edition of an extra musician in <b>Cenk Eroglu</b> – who contributes keyboard, guitar and FX parts to the new album.<br /> The new album is something a little different again. The downside of Internet leaks means that many have already heard this album and just as many have already posted their opinions of it. And those opinions sure are varied. It seems there are some fans that are struggling with this CD and I do understand those comments, but I have a few of my own.<br /> IV picks up more or less where <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font> left off – adopting the same intensity and moody mature delivery style, but also ventures into some new territory that may give some fans pause before accepting.<br /> This is far from an instant album and even once you get to know it inside and out, it remains a mood album. It is not something I am going to or can play at any given time, but rather when the mood fits. <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font> was a little like this too, but perhaps more mysterious.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">IV</font> is both modern contemporary and classic rock – there are songs that touch on both elements and at times it does so during the same song.<br /> There are some openly commercial moments and some truly dark and contemporary passages which will require some listening to.<br /> At first listen to the record I thought it was super intense and in some parts it is, but with time it sows some quite mellow and commercial moments. I find that the album doesn't feature as many individual highlights as <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font> did and is not quite as ground breaking with the songwriting. I also find that this album makes for a better listen when played start to finish without interruption.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Right Up Ahead</font> is a prime example of the band at its most intense, complete with Pull style acoustic intro, soon engulfed by a heavy guitar riff. The song takes a few listens to get into with the chorus making itself better known with each listen.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blue Suede Shoes</font> is an interesting choice to follow the heavy opening track. While equally intense and moody, strip this track and you more or less get a rock ballad with modern teeth. The added vocals and musical effects simply add to the mystique of the track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Four Leaf Clover</font> is one of my favourite tracks. A simple guitar riff and a flowing melody and catchy chorus make for a very accessible and commercial rock track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">M16</font> reverts back to the heavy intensity of the opening track. I like the heaviness, but can't say the chorus does a lot for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Your Great Escape</font> is an uptempo rocker with a less intense feel and even a breezy feel to it. It is the most commercial rocker on the album and sounds somewhat like a throw back to the band's early years.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Disappear</font> is another super intense moody rocker, with a modern vibe and a chorus that doesn't penetrate as well as some others.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">On A Day Like Today</font> is another of the extremely commercial tracks on the album. This is a breezy acoustic driven pop ballad with the intensity of Kip Winger's solo records and the commercial likeability of Winger's early work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Livin' Just To Die</font> has modern elements, but the heart of this song is a straight forward rocker with a twist.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Short Flight To Mexico</font> has a heavy down-tuned guitar riff driving it, but the chorus is far more upbeat and commercial hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Generica</font> is a track I can see some fans disliking, but I like its programmed robotic feel. It interests me and keeps my attention in a hypnotic kind of way. <font color="#ffff00">Can't Take It Back</font> closes the album in typically dramatic and moody fashion. This mid-tempo rock track sums up Winger 2006 – a song that needs time to grow on you and isn't openly catchy, but provides enough to draw the listener back in for more. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I think <b>Winger</b> has recorded a fine album with a lot of contemporary influences and effects, but for me it doesn't quite reach the highest standards set by <font color="#00ffff">Pull</font>. I also favour both Kip's solo records before this, but there are some classic Winger moments within this album.<br /> Perhaps a couple of extra tracks in the vein of <font color="#ffff80">Who's The One</font> or <font color="#ffff80">Blind Revolution Mad</font> might have given it a more instant attractiveness. I like this record and know others will also, but I also expect the very nature of the album and its style to bring extensive debate among fans. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Winger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Heart Of The Young<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pull<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> IV</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kip Winger:</b> Vocals, Bass, Acoustics, Keys<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Reb Beach:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rod Morgenstein:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Cenk Eroglu:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Roth:</b> Keyboards, Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Winger</b> - Pull<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kip Winger</b> - Solo </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Right Up Ahead<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Suede Shoes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Four Leaf Clover<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> M16<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Great Escape<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Disappear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On A Day Like Today<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Livin' Just To Die<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Short Flight To Mexico<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Generica<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Take It Back<br /> <br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#9d4f00" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Meatloaf</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bat Out Of Hell 3</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/meatloaf-batoutofhell3.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Desmond Child</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 77.07</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.meatloaf.net" target="new">Meatloaf</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Ah…yes indeed. I haven't heard anything quite like this since…well, since <font color="#00ffff">Bat Out Of Hell 2</font>. Nobody does it like <b>Meatloaf</b>. No one throws themselves (literally) into each song with as much passion, heart and power as the big man himself.<br /> For whatever reason, the records recorded in-between the Bat records don't come close to these three records.<br /> When the <i>Bat Out Of Hell</i> moniker is used, <b>Meatloaf</b> applies himself to the concept with a passion that is missing from his other records.<br /> In the end I think it all comes down to the songs and the fact Meatloaf believes in the songs used on each occasion. And of course we have the masterful <b>Jim Steinman</b> to thank for that.<br /> Each of the 3 Bat records has been a little different and <font color="#00ffff">Bat 3</font> is no different.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Bat 1</font> was produced by Todd Rundgren and featured the songs of <b>Jim Steinman</b>; Bat 2 was written and produced entirely by Steinman and <font color="#00ffff">Bat 3</font> is a mix of the previous 2 – <b>Jim Steinman</b> was to produce but things got complicated and lawsuits ensued.<br /> The end result was that Meatloaf gets to use 7 Steinman songs with hitmaker <b>Desmond Child</b> stepping into the producers chair. Keeping the thread between albums going, <b>Todd Rungren</b> also contributed, credited here for <i>"Vocal arrangements by Todd Rundgren."</i><br /> <font color="#00ffff">Bat 1</font> is legendary of course, but <font color="#00ffff">Bat 2</font> was an absolute masterpiece and my favourite of the three records. <b>Jim Steinman</b> gets the credit for that - his arrangements and attention to minute detail made that record an event. Jim's unique songs are what made <b>Meatloaf</b> great – although it is Meatloaf's unequalled passion that brings these songs to life.<br /> Both artists achieve their best when they work together, so I was very skeptical about this release once I learnt that Steinman wouldn't be producing. <b>Desmond Child</b> is no slouch – he is an accomplished producer and also knows how to get the best from the artists he works with. However, he doesn't have that same Steinman flare for the dramatic.<br /> But with Steinman's song contribution and <b>Todd Rungren</b> on board, the team assembled have managed to surpass my expectations and deliver a great album that is still worthy of the <i>Bat Out Of Hell</i> moniker.<br /> Yes, <font color="#00ffff">Bat Of Out Hell 3</font> is a clear winner for Meatloaf and while I still miss that extra flair and attention to detail that Steinman brings to the studio, this album works so well and Meat is in absolute cracking vocal form, and as per usual, throws everything into the delivery of these songs.<br /> I'll go through each track, but aside from the 7 <b>Jim Steinman</b> songs there are 7 others to comment on. Thankfully and wisely, the guys behind the album and in particular <b>Desmond Child</b>, have managed to come up with some killer songs that fit the Bat format and Meatloaf's larger than life vocal style and work will in conjunction with the Steinman originals.<br /> The production is huge – absolutely over the top pomp rock glory – with particular attention paid to the Steinman trademarks such as backing vocals, orchestration and instrumental passages. While these trademarks are present, at times you can tell that Steinman wasn't at work himself, but this I think is as good as it could possibly be without him involved in the studio.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Naturally the album opens in typically dramatic style, but for the first time ever on a <font color="#00ffff">Bat Out Of Hell</font> record, a non-Steinman song gets the nod. On a couple of occasions this album sees Meatloaf gets all modern on us and <font color="#ffff00">The Monster Is Loose</font> is one of those occasions. The 7 minute hard rock epic was written by <b>Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx</b> with <b>Desmond Child</b> and <b>John 5</b>. It's quite the modern rock marvel, with super intense, super heavy down-tuned guitars and added production effects, but it really works in the scheme of this album and gets things off to a powerful start.<br /> There are parts within the song such as the mid-song bridge where things mellow out and take on a decisively Steinman-esque twist.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blind As A Bat</font> is written by Child with <b>James Michael</b> and again features the hallmarks of a Steinman/Meatloaf classic. A dramatic vocal intro builds to a more pacey verse before an absolute gem of a chorus bursts through. I love this song and the passion in Meat's vocals are second to none. A perfect song for the album and proof that a great deal of thought has gone into getting the songs for this album just right.<br /> The first Steinman song of the album is the classic rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">It's All Coming Back to Me Now</font>. Unfortunately sometimes referred to as a <b>Celine Dion</b> song (she did cover it with the help of Steinman), it is rather a song written for and featured on Steinman's all female star project <b>Pandora's Box</b> (Virgin Records, 1989). A couple of the songs from that album also appeared on Bat 2.<br /> This track is a duet in typical Meatloaf style – this time with the up and coming rocker <b>Marion Raven</b>. She has a great voice and suits the song perfectly.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Bad For Good</font> reaches even further back into the Steinman archives – this time being the title track from his only solo album in the early 80s. Queen guitarist <b>Brian May</b> guests here – his contribution obvious – the intro and outro guitar riffs plus a classy mid-track solo are worthwhile additions to the song.<br /> <b>Meatloaf</b> and producer Child stay true to the formula, style and personality of the original version of the song and I must say the updated version with Meatloaf's voice is killer. A great song that lives on again although I think Desomond Child underplays the important piano parts of the original.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Cry Over Me</font> is a <b>Diane Warren</b> song. Now Dianne is a wonderful songwriter, but she has a bad habit of getting far too syrupy at times. Meatloaf has used her before – lastly on the <font color="#00ffff">Couldn't Have Said It Better</font> album, but this song is a Meatloaf classic in waiting. A very powerful and emotion filled rock ballad, the songs is memorable from the outset.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Bat 2</font> featured a couple of left turns and I'm pleased that <font color="#00ffff">Bat 3</font> is the same – with both turns delivered at the hands of Steinman. <font color="#ffff00">In The Land Of The Pig, The Butcher Is King</font> is a completely over the top aggressive modern rocker with that Steinman flair and some lead guitar parts from <b>Steve Vai</b>.<br /> No one but Meatloaf could pull this vocal off – heavy, modern and out of character with the album it would seem, but it fits the flow of the album perfectly and adds to the whole theatrical experience a Bat album should be.<br /> The sort instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Monstro</font> (written by <b>Child/Holly Knight/Elena Casals</b>) is an orchestral segway that brings the dramatics of the last track together with the high octane, melodic rock anthem that is <font color="#ffff00">Alive</font>.<br /> I love this track. Perfect Steinman without even being written by him. <b>Child/James Michael/Holly Knight</b> and <b>Andrea Remanda</b> are responsible for this pure rock anthem with a huge chorus and some of that classic rocking piano that both previous Bat albums featured. Add in additional orchestration and a flying tempo and a classic is born.<br /> Following this over the top rocker is a hard task, but again, the perfect song has been chosen. <font color="#ffff00">If God Could Talk</font> (<b>Child/Marti Frederiksen</b>) is a mid-tempo rock ballad with more dramatic flair and orchestration and fits the flow of the album perfectly.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">If It Ain't Broke, Break It</font> is another of the album's left turns and again features a heavy, tuned down guitar sound. I didn't actually pick this for a Steinman song, but it is…and something akin to his <b>Pandora's Box</b> release where a couple of songs go heavy/high-tech. I have never heard brass mixed with modern rock, but here you have it. Completely over the top, but for some reason it works.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What About Love?</font> Is another gem of a song from outside the Steinman circle. The <b>Child/Frederiksen/Russ Irwin/John Gregory</b> song is classic Meatloaf – changing tempo and featuring a female lead in places (courtesy of <b>Patti Russo</b>). Generally uptempo and featuring more classic Bat piano work, the song reminds me of Bat 1 in places. A strong chorus and those ever changing tempos make the song – especially when it gets even faster!<br /> The dramatic and orchestral <font color="#ffff00">Seize The Night</font> is another Steinman classic. Nearly 10 minutes in length, the song mixes <font color="#ffff80">Objects In the Rear View Mirror</font> with <font color="#ffff80">Life Is A Lemon</font> and even some <font color="#ffff80">Everything Louder</font> – in other words, classic Steinman. The song has several different parts and passages, but you know the drill.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Future Ain't What It Used To Be</font> is another old Steinman solo album remake and again is kept very faithful in this version. Brilliant song made even better with the power and energy of Meatloaf.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Cry To Heaven</font> is a short vocal only track written again by Steinman. I'd swap this with The Future to close the album, as after all the over the top moments, this seems just a little simple to close the album with. Pretty song, but perhaps the only disappointment for me on the whole record. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Meatloaf fans can breath easy – this is a great album and fits into the <font color="#00ffff">Bat Out Of Hell</font> legacy. I do miss <b>Jim Steinman</b> – he didn't produce the original BOOH, but BOOH2 was a gem and he has a unique production style that isn't quite replicated here, not to mention I think Steinman would deliver a better guitar tone and more prominent piano parts.<br /> The team assembled has done the right thing by <b>Meatloaf</b> and the good name of <i>Bat Out Of Hell</i>, and I think the majority will be impressed by this record.<br /> I'd still love to hear more brand new Steinman songs though…and perhaps one more outing with the big man… </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Bat Out Of Hell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dead Ringer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight At The Lost And Found<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Attitude<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind Before I Stop<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bat Out Of Hell II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To The Neighborhood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="meatloaf-couldnthavesaiditbetter.p3">Couldn't Have Said It Better</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bat Out Of Hell 3</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Promo: Not Listed </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bat Out Of Hell</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Steinman</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Monster Is Loose <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind As A Bat <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's All Coming Back To Me Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad For Good <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cry Over Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Land of the Pig, The Butcher Is King<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monstro<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If God Could Talk <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If It Ain't Broke Break It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What About Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seize the Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Future Ain't What It Used To Be<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cry To Heaven<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#d6bf72" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Europe</b> <font color="#ffffff">Secret Society</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sanctuary Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/europe-secretsociety.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Europe</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.03</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.europetheband.com" target="new">Europe</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Europe</b> reformed in 2003 and released their comeback album <font color="#00ffff">Start From The Dark</font> in 2004. Their chosen musical direction created the usual debate among fans and left some out in the cold.<br /> I actually thought they updated their sound quite well. The mix of modern influences and a darker sound mixed with some of the band's commercial appeal generally worked for them. But I thought their main downfall was a lack of killer songs. Half the song was extraordinary, the other half rather ordinary.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Secret Society</font> is another interesting album that in many ways mirrors its predecessor.<br /> Again the band continues with the same style and direction – pushing it a little further still and again the album will cause great consternation among fans. My take is that those that loved <font color="#00ffff">Start From The Dark</font> will probably rate this one even higher and those that didn't warm to the last album will continue to be left cold.<br /> And just like <font color="#00ffff">Start From The Dark</font>, the new album still suffers a little from lack of killer songs. Overall <font color="#00ffff">Secret Society</font> is a much stronger and generally more consistent record, but where it adds more depth, it actually lacks one or two tracks that really blow your mind, like the opening few tracks of <font color="#00ffff">Start From The Dark</font> did.<br /> Where there could be improvements - I would certainly drop the vocal effects from Joey Tempest's lead vocals. He is an amazing singer and I have no idea why there are so many on this record. Plus the boasting of more keyboards on this record doesn't sound like it came to fruition.<br /> And again, just like the last album, this record features a stronger first half and a slightly less dominating second half.<br /> I'm pretty much sold on the album's first 5 or 6 tracks. The opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Secret Society</font> has a modern feel and some interesting musical twist, but is largely a straight ahead guitar fueled rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Always The Pretenders</font> is precisely what I'm looking for as far as this band is concerned and is hard rock gold in my book. More tracks with this intensity and memorable hooks is what the album needed to make classic status.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Getaway Plan</font> is harder and more contemporary, but still features a cool chorus and strong guitar riff.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wish I Could Believe</font> is a strong modern rock ballad with another good chorus and well placed orchestral parts.<br /> The mid-tempo modern rocker <font color="#ffff00">Let The Children Play</font> mixes in some retro classic rock and takes some time to get to know, but again, delivers with a decent hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Human After All</font> is another good song, but a bigger, stronger chorus such as <font color="#ffff80">Wake Up Call</font> could have lifted it further.<br /> From here the next few songs all are worthy of inclusion and are part of what makes this album so consistent throughout. But they aren't in the same league as <font color="#ffff80">Start From The Dark, Always The Pretenders</font> and <font color="#ffff80">Got To Have Faith</font> for example.<br /> Highlight of the latter part of the album for me is probably the very melodic and commercial <font color="#ffff00">Forever Traveling</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Devil Sings The Blues</font> features some stellar guitar work. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I have already seen calls from some <b>Europe</b> fans thinking this album rates a perfect 100. I disagree, but I do think it is a great record for the band, proving themselves to be more than relevant in 2006.<br /> If I could pick 5 songs from <font color="#00ffff">Start From The Dark</font> and 5 or 6 songs from <font color="#00ffff">Secret Society</font>, then I think you would get your perfect 100. Overall, a solid and very enjoyable record from a band that is proving to be a force some 20 years after forming. That's a rare feat. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Europe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wings Of Tomorrow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Final Countdown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of This World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Prisoners In Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="europe-startfromthedark.p3">Start From The Dark</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Secret Society</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Tempest:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Norum:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ian Haugland:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Leven:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mic Michaeli:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Europe</b> - Start From The Dark </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Secret Society <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Always The Pretenders <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Getaway Plan<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wish I Could Believe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let The Children Play <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Human After All <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Is Not The Enemy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Mother's Son<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever Traveling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brave And Beautiful Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil Sings The Blues<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff0000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Skid Row</b> <font color="#ffffff">Revolutions Per Minute</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/skidrow-rpm.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Skid Row</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40.51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock / Punk</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.skidrow.com" target="new">Skid Row</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>49%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>29%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Skid Row</b> have an identity crisis. Their first album without venerable frontman <b>Sebastian Bach</b> was a bit hit and miss. The quality of the songs was there, but the direction was not. Part old school, part modern rock, it made the band appear indecisive as to what they should be doing.<br /> The guys are now back with album number two featuring frontman <b>Johnny Solinger</b>. It seems they have the same problem with indecisiveness, but this time they also lack the quality of songs, making this album rather a mess.<br /> Making the situation even worse for long time fans is the fact that the band barely acknowledge their traditional sound, this time flip-flopping between modern hard rock and nu-breed inspired 3-chord punk.<br /> Throw in a couple of hillbilly rockers and the <b>Skid Row</b> as we once knew it is perhaps lost forever.<br /> I'm not saying every track on this album is bad – there are a few moments where the song demands attention and the guys certainly rock with passion and attitude.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Disease</font> is little more than noise to me and the punk fuelled <font color="#ffff00">Another Dick In The System</font> doesn't do much more, although the angst levels within the song are intense.<br /> Then there is the frantic hillbilly rock of <font color="#ffff00">When God Can't Wait</font>, which is more <b>Green Day</b> goes country than anything I would expect on a <b>Skid Row</b> record.<br /> In fact, it isn't until the grinding hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Shut Up Baby I Love You</font> and the rocked-up cover of <b>The Alarm's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Strength</font> that this album really gets my attention.<br /> The punk metal of <font color="#ffff00">White Trash</font> has a good groove and a frantic rhythm and then there's <font color="#ffff00">You Lie</font>. This is the dorkiest, hokiest "metal" track I have heard since Leppard's classic <b>Stumpus Maximus</b> cover of <font color="#ffff80">Please Release Me</font>.<br /> Except this is an all-original number. This is the ultimate hate song wrapped up in an uptempo, feel-good country jamboree. You have to love the sentiment of the song and I love where the band takes it, but how can anyone take it seriously?<br /> But what's worse, there is two versions of the track on the album. The album closes with the same song – some 3 seconds shorter and with no discernable difference between the two. Some bonus track!<br /> Pick of the whole album for me follows hillbilly hour. Nothing is a track that gets closer to the heart of what this band is capable of and is an example of where the whole album should have been going. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I don't doubt that some <b>Skid Row</b> fans are going to embrace this record as they did the last one and will do their best to enjoy it. But I think the majority of fans – enjoyment aside - will continue to wish for a return to what made the band famous and the frontman that helped take them there.<br /> Out of the 5 <b>Skid Row</b> studio albums available, if you had to pick only one to listen to, would it ever be anything other than the debut or the essential <font color="#00ffff">Slave To The Grind</font>? All in all I gave <font color="#00ffff">Thick Skin</font> a solid workout but now the review for this album is done, <font color="#00ffff">RPM</font> just got shelved for good. And that's disappoints me greatly. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Skid Row<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slave To The Grind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Subhuman Race<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="skidrow-thickskin.p3">Thickskin</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Revolutions Per Minute</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johnny Solinger:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scotti Hill:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dave Sabo:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Phil Varone:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rachel Bolan:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Skid Row</b> - Thickskin</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Disease<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Dick In The System<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pulling My Heart Out From Under Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When God Can't Wait<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shut Up Baby I Love You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strength <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> White Trash<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Lie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Is Dead<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Ride<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Lie (Bonus Track)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#db2222" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Nexx</b> <font color="#ffffff">Another Dawn</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Angel Milk Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AMUK001 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/nexx-anotherdawn.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Nexx & Peter Coleman</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.07</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.angelmilkrecords.co.uk" target="new">Angel Milk Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>96%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There aren't too many Spanish AOR groups floating around and just as few viable AOR acts that feature a female lead vocalist. <b>Nexx</b>, of course, are both of the above and further to that, one of the very finest pure AOR acts around today.<br /> The band's debut was a tribute to super songwriting and great performances, all wrapped into a great package. The album was critically acclaimed and the band's accompanying live performances were raved about.<br /> So the guys had a lot to live up to with their all important second album. <font color="#00ffff">Another Dawn</font> sees the band on a new label and with a slightly adjusted line up.<br /> Adjustments aside, the guys pick up where they left off with <font color="#00ffff">Colours</font> and deliver another mega-smooth, perfectly executed, slice of mature adult contemporary AOR.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Another Dawn</font> is once of the best examples of female fronted AOR I have heard in years (or at least since their debut!) and certainly the smoothest.<br /> The band have kept upon the same path set they set out on with their debut, but maybe with an even more refined sound than before.<br /> The guys have obviously matured together and while I paint this album as a very smooth slice of AOR, it is not without some energy and some fine guitar work.<br /> The album kicks off with the most uptempo and obvious rocker of the album. <font color="#ffff00">Critical</font> is classic European AOR with a fine vocal from Patricia and a hook big enough to hang your hat on.<br /> The angst filled <font color="#ffff00">Hey Father</font> features a more subtle guitar riff and some superb harmonies throughout. The chorus is as strong as anything the band has delivered to date.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Like The Poet</font> is an interesting track. The hook is far from immediate, but rather embedded within the song and more obvious with repeat listens. The song features a nice mix of keyboards and guitar and a very strong and clear lead vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Control In My Life</font> is nothing short of a beautiful female fronted AOR ballad. Soft and sultry and better and better each listen. The vocal hook is instant and the addition of strings and prominent piano parts makes for AOR brilliance.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Far Away</font> is a nice straight ahead guitar driven pop rocker that lifts the tempo of the album a little approaching the halfway point. A more urgent chorus helps the song stand out.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Praying For A Life</font> continues a mid-album rock phase, with some more fine guitar driven AOR.<br /> The title track <font color="#ffff00">Another Dawn</font> is a more subtle pop flavored track that features more string arrangements and a detailed sonic landscape. Not an immediate track, but one that certainly has a lot to offer thanks to its various layers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Again</font> is reminiscent of the debut – a simple uptempo pop rocker with a strong guitar riff and a great feel good chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Caught In A Trap</font> is a little darker and moodier and features a tasty little chorus hook that shows off Patricia's accent probably more than any other track, but it works for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Guiding Star</font> is purely and simply a straight ahead uptempo AOR rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shine</font> is an acoustic ballad that closes the album on a soft note. Not bad, but not a personal favourite despite the raw emotion of the song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Control In My Life (Reprise)</font> is another does of that magic ballad, this time with the instrumentation removed and more orchestration and strings added. Wonderful! Second time around the song still remains a highlight and should be on radio if there were any justice in the world. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Lovers of female fronted AOR need this and as for the rest of you, there is no excuse no to check <b>Nexx</b> out. Quality is quality and this is another fine mature AOR album featuring some very fine songwriting.<br /> AOR may be a dirty word to some, but when it is as good as this, it is hard to reason why it isn't selling far more units than it currently is. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="nexx-colours.p3">Colours</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Dawn</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Patricia Tapia:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bernardo Llobregat:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Oscar Perez:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jose A. de la Banda:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Benjamin Andrea:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Female Fronted Melodic Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>European AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Critical <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hey Father <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Like The Poet <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Control In My Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Far Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Praying For A Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Dawn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caught In A Trap <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guiding Star<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Control In My Life (Reprise)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#868464" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Beggar's Bride</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Boulevard Of Broken Hearts</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-171 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/beggarsbride-boulevardofbrokenhearts.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Holggy Begg</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 13</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>63%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>45%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Here is another album from <b>MTM Music</b> that I just don't get. The album is the vision of Swiss producer, singer and songwriter <b>Holggy Begg</b>. Holggy was part of the team behind <b>Oni Logan's</b> recent solo album and this record carries the same earthy, acoustic vive of that record.<br /> The thing is - Holggy has a bloody awful voice. At times I am not sure if he is singing or trying not to throw up. It really is that bad. Thankfully he must be aware of this and only sings lead on three tracks. But he does pop up from time to time through the album.<br /> Singing the rest of the time is a range of special guests – <b>Marc Storage (Krokus), Gary Barden</b> (everything), <b>Michael Voss</b> (everything else) plus <b>Aino Laos</b> to name a few.<br /> The album lacks direction. And it certainly lacks melodies. It isn't melodic rock, it isn't hard rock and it really isn't acoustic pop either. I guess it is a bit of everything, but then the music is so varied and the singers are alternating from track to track, one isn't left with much of a flow to grab onto.<br /> I think the only upside of this album is a few select tracks that you can play on their own, but as an album, I won't ever play this from start to finish again. I had a job to that enough times to do this review.<br /> Highlights are obviously the two <b>Marc Storace</b> tracks, although don't expect anything nearly as heavy or rocking as <b>Krokus</b>. <font color="#ffff00">Broken Hearts</font> is an acoustic driven pop rock song with a good melody, and <font color="#ffff00">First Way Out</font> a more hard hitting track, but isn't quite as memorable.<br /> The two <b>Gary Barden</b> tracks are also ok – <font color="#ffff00">Dreams</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Open Sea</font> are moody rock tracks, especially The Open Sea.<br /> As you see there are a few definite highlights with the 13 tracks featured, but some absolute dogs too and the rest of the album for me is largely forgettable. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Hoggy isn't about to become a household name on the back of this release. Fans of Storace, Voss and Barden will find their vocalists in good form, but the album is a definite struggle to get through. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Boulevard Of Broken Dreams</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Holggy Begg:</b> Lead Vocals, Accoustic & Electric Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fritz Schneider:</b> Acoustic Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jolene Van Ar:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Bride:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Bride:</b> Lead & Rhythm Guitar, Vocals<br /> + Guest Vocalists </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Hearts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Footprints In The Sand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ruled By Clowns<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Were My Sunshine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreams <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Think It's Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eight Feet Below<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> First Way Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Radio Is Playin' Softly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tattoo-Nancy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thousand Miles From Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Open Sea<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Below – Acoustic Version<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Dacia + The WMD</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dacia + The WMD</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Psycho Active</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> 0681-173 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/dacia-andthewmd.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ace (Skunk Anansie)</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.05</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>30%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>MTM Music</b> has reactivated their alternative rock sub-label <b>Psycho Active</b> in order to unleash a new wave of left of center rock artists on the world.<br /> The concept did not work at all originally, mainly due the fact that the type of record buying public that is reading about and looking for <b>MTM</b> releases are generally not the type that are going to be looking for anything remotely alternative.<br /> So the label has that challenge in front of them again – to reach a new audience within their existing barriers. Good luck guys.<br /> I guess there is a chance of this happening and also a chance of converting some traditional melodic rock buyers with the right kind of album.<br /> Tourist is an example of getting it right. <b>Dacia</b> is an example of getting it wrong.<br /> The album may open with a fine modern rock anthem in <font color="#ffff00">Who's To Say</font>, which is quite melodic all things considered. But merely 1 minute into the second track <font color="#ffff00">Rockabilly Bitch</font> it all goes terribly wrong.<br /> Who in their right mind would chooses to listen to a song like this? A heavy groove, some rapping vocals and a lame attempt to sound like <b>Pink</b> meets <b>Gwen Stefani</b> goes metal. Not me…<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stop And Stare</font> tries to undo the damage of that second track, but by now, how many potential buyers are left listening? This is quite a smooth modern rocker in fact, with a nice chorus melody. Perhaps there I a chance for this record still….<br /> But them the album falls back into a heavy aggressive rap-rock groove and I'm lost for good.<br /> There are a couple of other cool tracks – the modern metal of <font color="#ffff00">Live To Tell</font> has some value; <font color="#ffff00">My Reality</font> has a decent hook; and the big metal ballad <font color="#ffff00">Losing You</font> which features <b>Motorhead's Lemmy</b> is a decent track.<br /> The bonus video clip to the alternative metal of <font color="#ffff00">The Communist</font> sure won't convince me otherwise either.<br /> The album is produced by <b>Skunk Anansie's Ace</b>, so that should give some indication to the musical direction, but I'll take that band above this any time. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Dacia</b> is not something any fan of traditional melodic rock is going to get into, but then again, the <b>Psycho Active</b> label is not looking for that angle. Fresh new ears folks – I hope they find them. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Dacia + The WMD</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dacia Briges:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Scholpp:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Menichini:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ralf Botzenhart:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Skunk Anansie</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Who's To Say <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rockabilly Bitch<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stop And Stare <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Change The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live To Tell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 6<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sorry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Reality<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Long<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Intensity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Communist<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Losing You (feat. Lemmy Kilmister)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 1st Time (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Universe (Bonus Track)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#008000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Wetton/Downes: Icon</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Never In A Million Years</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD306 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/wettondownes-iconlive.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Wetton/Downes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>73%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>60%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Vocalist <b>John Wetton</b> and keyboardist <b>Geoff Downes</b> are two icons of the melodic rock world. I guess the <b>Icon</b> moniker the guys chose came to them easily.<br /> They have earnt and deserve the utmost respect for having longevity in their careers that has led them on a path back to their current point – working together after forming <b>Asia</b> together some 25 years ago.<br /> Their debut <b>Icon</b> album together was filled with some fine adult contemporary AOR. A little laid back, but still, highly polished and very smooth.<br /> I look forward to the guys' delivering their second studio album next month, but I have to admit complete disinterest in their output in-between records.<br /> hey really are milking this partnership, as since the debut the guys delivered an EP, a truly horrible acoustic CD and DVD and now an almost equally dull full live concert release.<br /> Of the 15 tracks featured here, only a handful get out of first gear and manage to find a pulse.<br /> I know that if you want to be rocked you should perhaps instead see Iron Maiden live, but there are so many slow tempo tracks in this set that I am not sure who would still be awake to hear the more rousing final numbers such as <font color="#ffff00">Let Me Go</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Open Your Eyes</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Heat Goes On</font> sounds great as does <font color="#ffff00">Only Time Will Tell</font> and the classic <font color="#ffff00">Days Like These</font>, but elsewhere it is all very laid back and very 'AOR-lite'. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This might make a nice album for entertaining guests or other associated background music, or for perhaps sitting back in bed and listening to with headphones, but whatever you do – do not drive to this record! For completists and die-hard fans only. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Icon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Acoustic TV Broadcast<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never In A Million Years</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Wetton:</b> Vocals & Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Mitchell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Christey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Geoffrey Downes:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Wetton / Downes</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Asia</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Pane Bruno<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Heat Goes On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only Time Will Tell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voice Of America<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Lay Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Days Like These<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bolero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Meet Me At Midnight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never In A Million Years<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Move As One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Paradox<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Open Your Eyes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Smile Has Left Your Eyes<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kingdom Come</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Ain't Crying For The Moon</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD301 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/kingdomcome-aintcryingforthemoon.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Lenny Wolf</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62.40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.lennywolf.com" target="new">Lenny Wolf</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>76%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Time already for another <b>Kingdom Come</b> album or at least another <b>Lenny Wolf</b> release. As is the case with the last few albums, this is more or less all Lenny's doing – from the vocals to the majority of the instrumentation.<br /> Although Lenny boasted that this would be the heaviest KC album ever, there remains little difference from the past few records.<br /> Yes, it is heavier and more driven by a modern guitar sound, but the tempo is exactly the same as previous records as is the songwriting style.<br /> Of the last few albums I do find this to be the more enjoyable, but Lenny truly needs to get some other people on board. Some co-writers and a full band to back what is a great rock n roll voice.<br /> Until he does that, <b>Kingdom Come</b> records are going to be for established fans and nothing else. As far as some track highlights on this record –<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ain't Crying For The Moon</font> is an interesting track – it comes in two parts – a heartfelt ballad portion before turning heavier, but all the while remaining dark and intense.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">This Is My Life</font> finally lifts the tempo a little and features a nice little chorus melody. <font color="#ffff00">Bon Scott</font> is an obvious tribute to AC/DC, both lyrically and musically. <font color="#ffff00">Removed The Sting</font> is a nice heartfelt ballad too.<br /> A couple of things I could have lived without though - <font color="#ffff00">Look At You</font> closes with a 20 second silence so to give a break before the two bonus tracks. Pointless. Hate silence on songs in this age of MP3.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Across The Universe</font> is a soft pop cover of the <b>Beatles</b> classic – nothing special and the new 2006 version of <font color="#ffff00">Get It On</font> merely updates the sound to fit this album – modern rock with a slower tempo.<br /> One other small matter that isn't relevant to those buying the retail version of this once it is releases - this review copy came complete with skips, jumps and audio hiccups at the request of Mr. Wolf. Absolutely crazy decision – almost as crazy as those promos with the voice over every minute to interrupt concentration.<br /> If you are going to offer promo copies to journalists to review you album, then give only to those you trust. This is not the way to fix internet leaks – it only pisses off those you are trying to impress. Next record that skips and jumps all the way though won't get reviewed. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Ain't Cryin' For The Moon</font> once again suffers from lack of variation in the songs – not enough chorus hooks, not enough change in tempo and more or less, the same album that has been delivered the last few times over.<br /> However, out of the last 2 or 4 records, I'll take this one above those because Lenny is a talented singer and this record is a passionate one. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingdom Come<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your Face<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hands Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Image<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Twilight Cruiser<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live & Unplugged<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Master Seven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Balladesque<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="kingdomcome-too.html">Too</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="kingdomcome-independent.html">Independent</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="kingdomcome-perpetual.p3">Perpetual</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't Crying For The Moon</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lenny Wolf:</b> Vocals, All Instruments<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Foerster:</b> Guitar Solos<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hendrik Thiesbrummel:</b> Piano</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lenny Wolf</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Two Legged Sheep <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not Here To Be Your Friend<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Same Old Stars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't Crying For The Moon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Perfect Citizen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is My Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bon Scott<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Removed The Sting<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Friends In Spirit<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Darkroom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look At You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Across The Universe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get It On (2006 version)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#df0000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tourist</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Relevance Of Motion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tourist-therelevanceofmotion.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tourist</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 37.09</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.touristband.com" target="new">Tourist</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">As stated previously, <b>MTM Music</b> has reactivated their alternative rock sub-label <b>Psycho Active</b> to give themselves the ability to release some records outside the melodic rock field. Modern rockers <b>Tourist</b> released this album independently in 2005, so many will already know of it. But now with a full European deal through MTM, perhaps now more will be able to hear it. Some 18 months since originally reviewing this album, I can't say I have gone back and played it once. But that is more an issue of the number of new albums I must always absorb before reviewing. Now giving this a listen I can instantly remember what I liked about it back then and can't say that I have wavered from my original views. Over to what I posted originally - But there is a number of strong releases in the modern rock genre deserving of some attention.<br /> <b>Tourist</b> is one such band. This US act has released their new album independently, sadly ensuring that they won't get the media coverage they deserve.<br /> Their brand of guitar driven modern rock is every bit as good as their counterparts such as <b>Foo Fighters, Hoobastank, Shinedown</b>, or even <b>Anberlin</b>.<br /> These guys are on the heavier side of things and the sonic bombardment from a duel guitar attack and an intense lead vocal is unrelenting.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Jacob's Ladder, Stay</font> and the very anthemic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Everytime We Touch</font> all would sound at home on modern rock radio.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">LRT</font> and <font color="#ffff00">New Radio</font> slow it down a little, but keep the aggressive undertone of the album.<br /> Only the closing track <font color="#ffff00">It Just Doesn't Matter</font> doesn't quite work – the acoustic ballad seems a little out of place. Enhancing the quality of the songwriting is a monster production, all tied together by a super crisp mix from the great <b>Mike Fraser</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Solid, enjoyable, commercial modern rock that deserves as much attention as some of their rather overhyped compeditors. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Relevance Of Motion</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Blaine Braun:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Greg Whitbeck, Andy Skov:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Wagner:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Radloff:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>American Modern Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nickleback</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Jacob's Ladder <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everytime We Touch <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Throwing Stones<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LRT <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> High Speed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Newradio<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Throw It Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Between Us<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Just Doesn't Matter<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#877e5f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Leverage</b> <font color="#ffffff">Tides</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Elements Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ELEMENTSCD064 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/leverage-tides.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tuomas Heikkinen & Torsti Spoof</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47.40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.leverageband.com" target="new">Leverage</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>96%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The rockers of Finland are really turning it on this year aren't they! The good word on <b>Brother Firetribe</b> is still spreading, and given the band are finally getting a full European release, those good vibes are only going to continue.<br /> Now there's <b>Leverage</b> – set upon the world to kick our asses!<br /> Leverage is a heavier prospect than the more AOR friendly <b>Brother Firetribe</b>, but there is more than one similarity. This album is more in the league of <b>Masterplan</b> – powerful yet very melodic hard rock/metal.<br /> The whole album oozes a powerful energy that few other albums emulate and the songs themselves are full of life and passion, not to mention good choruses, powerful guitar riffs and swirling keyboards.<br /> In <b>Leverage</b>, the keyboards play a support role rather than being the dominate force of the album such as on <b>Brother Firetribe</b>.<br /> On this album the guitars are more in your face and dominate the musical landscape.<br /> There is another aspect of this album which simply deifies all expectations of quality. The vocals of one <b>Pekka Heino</b>. Fresh from his outstanding performance as lead vocalist for <b>Brother Firetribe</b>, Pekka kicks it up another notch here – delivering a powerhouse vocal with all the finesse and power of Jorn Lande, but with an even more melodic edge, which still reminds me of <b>Cheap Trick's Robin Zander</b> at his most powerful.<br /> The production is first rate, the mix is tight and intense and the whole aura of the album is one of the highest qualities, enhanced further by the kick-ass rhythm section.<br /> There are no fillers or weak moments on this CD, just 10 brilliant melodic metal tunes. But within those are still a few amazing highlights.<br /> The album opener <font color="#ffff00">Fifteen Years</font> is an intense melodic metal anthem with a terrific chorus and a powerful lead vocal which just oozes passion and power. A ripping guitar solo and a thumping rhythm section make it a metal highlight for 2006.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Superstition</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Horizon</font> follow, <font color="#ffff00">Horizon</font> being a moody and super intense metal ballad with layers of music to get through.<br /> But it gets even better – the one-two punch of <font color="#ffff00">Dreamworld</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Follow Down That River</font> ensure that this album is elevated from great to classic.<br /> These are two uptempo metal anthems that <b>Masterplan</b> would be proud to all their own. Truly two fantastic tracks with strong choruses and pounding intensity.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stranger</font> sees the guys pull back the fierceness for a more reflective mid-tempo ballad, followed by a quite commercial straight ahead rocker in <font color="#ffff00">Sails</font>.<br /> To pick out one last highlight, I'd have to jump to the closing track <font color="#ffff00">Gone</font>. Once again it is super intense and wrapped in a supersonic musical blanket, the song smolders along with the glorious vocals of Heino delivering the songs melody. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> One of this year's more essential releases. A perfect companion to <b>Brother Firetribe's</b> record and further proof that European hard rock is this year's dominant force…not to mention vocalist Heino!<br /> One for those that love it heavy and love it melodic and where you have keyboards dominating Brother Firetribe, here the guitars are in control. A perfect set of inspired releases. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Tides</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pekka Heino:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tuomas Heikkinen, Torsti Spoof:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Valtteri Revonkorpi:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pekka Lampinen:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marko Niskala:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brother Firetribe</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Masterplan</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fifteen Years <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Superstition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Horizon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreamworld <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Follow Down That River <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stranger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sails<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Marching to War<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Twilight Symphony<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#d76b00" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>TNT</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live In Madrid</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-172 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tnt-liveinmadrid-dvd.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> TNT</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 85.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM</a> <a href="http://www.thttheband.com" target="new">TNT</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>--%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>--%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>DVD Review:</b> Bonus Audio CD included in package.<br /> This to me is not a great live album. It is a great collection of <b>TNT</b> songs – who could argue with any set list that contained brilliance such as <font color="#ffff00">10,000 Lovers, She Needs Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Intuition</font>?<br /> But it is just not a true live recording and watching the performance up close only magnifies the effects used to create the <b>TNT</b> live sound. And beyond that, there is no way that the audio from this DVD hasn't been touched up big time in the studio.<br /> It is well known that <b>TNT</b> (and may others) use programmed backing vocals for their live concerts, giving them the ability to match the original versions of the band's harmony rich classics. I do respect the band's wishes to go that route in concert.<br /> <b>TNT</b> is certainly not alone in doing it. Fans demand perfection from their artists and some of these classic songs are simply impossible to replicate live as they were recorded.<br /> But I'm one that would rather that any artist go completely live and only reproduce on stage what is humanly possible – giving the songs a true, raw, live, warts and all sound.<br /> That said the energy and first hand experience of a live concert can see these things overlooked and forgiven.<br /> It is a little different when sitting back in the comfort of one's own home, watching the concert on DVD. Those "enhancements" are only magnified and watching the guys fake their vocals puts me right off watching.<br /> The whole piped-in backing vocals thing just looks fake. That issue is made all the more obvious and off-putting by watching the guy's front up to their microphones pretending to sing, while the backing vocals are clearly from their original studio recordings.<br /> It takes away from the performance and just doesn't seem real. To be honest, I'm not even sure all of Tony's lead vocals are live from the night.<br /> Everything about this live performance is just a little too slick and a little too polished and personally speaking, I don't like it.<br /> To speak of the concert itself for a moment, what you get is a pretty slick performance on a relatively small stage at a club in Spain. The filming is crystal clear and the crowd is enthusiastic.<br /> The band runs though a true hits package that includes a few early classics (<font color="#ffff00">10,000 Lovers, As Far As The Eye Can See, Intuition, Downhill Racer, Seven Seas</font> etc) and a few newer classics such as <font color="#ffff00">She Needs Me, My Religion, Black Butterfly</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Invisible Noise</font>.<br /> The 85 minute set is probably missing a few important songs, but this fact would not be so important if the band and Tony were still working together. Now they have split, it makes the need for a definitive live concert ever more essential. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The camera angels are not held for long at any given time, so the DVD looks to move fast and has a slick feel to it. It is a nice looking package and who is to fault the songs included – classic stuff without question. But the overall vibe of the whole show and the studio enhancements are just not real enough for my tastes. Rather this should be considered a good greatest hits record.<br /> I'll have to see what Mr. Harnell makes of my comments, but suffice to say, I doubt I'm going to be very popular with the now departed TNT frontman. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> TNT<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Knights Of The New Thunder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell No Tales<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Intuition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Realized Fantasies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Firefly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="tnt-transistor.p3">Transistor</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Big Bang<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="tnt-taste.p3">Taste</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="tnt-myreligion.p3">My Religion</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="tnt-allthewaytothesun.p3">All The Way To The Sun</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live In Madrid</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Harnell:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronnie LeTekro:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Diesel Dahl:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sid Ringsby:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>TNT</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Harnell</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Invisible Noise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Far As The Eye Can See<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Downhill Racer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Fix<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She Needs Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give Me A Sign<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guitar Solo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caught Between The Tigers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Listen To Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Butterfly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seven Seas<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever Shine On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fantasia Espanola<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Religion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 10,000 Lovers (In One)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Intuition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outro</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#e86a6a" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>UFO</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Monkey Puzzle</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">80001057 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ufo-themonkeypuzzle.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> UFO</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.spv.de" target="new">SPV</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>UFO</b> are back with their latest studio album, the second to feature guitarist <b>Vinnie Moore</b>, not to mention a well received live set.<br /> After finding their way a little on the last album <font color="#00ffff">You Are Here</font>, the boys deliver a much stronger record in <font color="#00ffff">Monkey Puzzle</font>.<br /> The album doesn't offer anything unexpected or out of character for the band, but it does deliver 11 strong blues tinged rockers that is more or less going to be everything <b>UFO</b> fans expect from the band.<br /> What makes this album better is the consistency in the quality of the songwriting and the tight sound the band has developed after a lengthy tour getting comfortable together again. It also signals the return of drummer <b>Andy Parker</b>, after stand-in <b>Jason Bonham</b> took up with <b>Foreigner</b>.<br /> The album didn't throw out any classics first spin, but on repeated listens I found each song to be more engaging and as a body of work, the album flows effortlessly from start to finish.<br /> The overall feel of the album is fairly laid back, but the band is clearly at ease with themselves and I'm finding more guitar riffs and melodies in this album than I have heard in quite some time.<br /> The production is perfect for what the band needs – solid sound, evenly mixed, but without the life being squeezed out of the performance. This still sounds like it could have been played live in the studio.<br /> Highlights of the album include the classic <b>UFO</b> bar room rocker <font color="#ffff00">Hard Being Me</font>, which opens the album; the moody organ drenched <font color="#ffff00">Who's Fooling Who</font>; the hard edge rocker <font color="#ffff00">Black And Blue</font>; the very melodic and relaxed <font color="#ffff00">Drink Too Much</font> plus one of my new favourite UFO tracks - <font color="#ffff00">Good Bye You</font> - a song that is a little more laid back and features a memorable chorus and great overall vibe. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Another year, another <b>UFO</b> album. But come next year, I'll probably still feel like playing this one, whereas the last couple have been shelved once the review process had been completed.<br /> Nothing unusual or original here, just quality songwriting and an engaging set of performances. Something about this album just works for me. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk On Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ufo-covenant.p3">Covenant</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ufo-sharks.p3">Sharks</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ufo-youarehere.p3">You Are Here</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Monkey Puzzle</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Phil Mogg:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vinnie Moore:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Parker:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pete Way:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Raymond:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>UFO</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mogg/Way</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vinnie Moore</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard Being Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heavenly Body<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Some Other Guy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who's Fooling Who? <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black And Blue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Drink Too Much <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World Cruise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down By The River<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Bye You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rolling Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingston Town<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Alibi</b> <font color="#ffffff">Misdemeanours</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM136 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/alibi-misdemeanours.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Vince O'Regan</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62.25</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 29</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>78%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Alibi</b> is another new British melodic rock outfit, again fronted by popular guitarist <b>Vince O'Regan</b>. This is more Vince's baby, whereas <b>Eden</b> is more <b>Nick Workman's</b>.<br /> It more ways than one, <b>Alibi</b> is the sequel to the two <b>Pulse</b> records and sees that band's sound used as the foundation for Alibi's debut. This picks up more or less take up where Pulse left off.<br /> Joining Vince is <b>Pulse</b> bandmate <b>Andy Mills</b> on bass and <b>James Wright</b> on drums.<br /> Vocalist <b>Rick Chase</b> hails from <b>Double Cross</b>, a fine British melodic rock band in their own right. His vocals are perfectly suited for this material and with any luck Vince has found a line-up that will exude less drama than the goings on within Pulse.<br /> The album contains some really superb straight ahead melodic rock and AOR, all with a classic British AOR influence.<br /> And I mean really superb song writing! These are some very fine, very catchy typical melodic rock songs that will definitely find the ear of a lot of fans.<br /> However the production quality again remains an issue – as it seems to be with every O'Regan produced record. I just keep getting that tinny drum/keyboard sound and despite a drummer attached to the project, a drum machine vibe too.<br /> Sonically it is mastered with an emphasis on a thin rather than the big fat beef sound it deserves. I swear that at times one can hear tape hiss on the playback. I would prefer to concentrate on the positives of the project, which are the songs.<br /> That said, I believe the guys kick off the album with one of the weakest tracks. <font color="#ffff00">Get Ready</font> is maybe my least favourite track of the entire album.<br /> I much prefer the <b>Def Leppard</b> <font color="#ffff80">Photograph</font> vibe of <font color="#ffff00">Masquerade</font>, which has a fine chorus hook, and the more urgent <font color="#ffff00">No Reason</font>.<br /> The rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Gabrielle</font> has a big <b>Firehouse</b> / American rock feel to it and is a taste of an era past.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">By Your Side</font> is a superb mid-tempo melodic rocker with a great chorus melody and lead vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Out Of Love</font> sounds distinctly like a <b>Double Cross</b> melodic rocker and is another strong track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Who's Foolin' Who</font> sees this band carve out their own sound with another impressive hook while <font color="#ffff00">Yesterday's News</font> is another good ballad. It has an old school <b>Poison</b> ballad vibe to it too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Changes</font> is reminiscent of a couple of earlier tracks and that <b>Double Cross</b> vibe. Another album highlight even though it doesn't deliver anything we haven't heard before.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lost On The Inside</font> offers plenty of keyboards and some nice guitar soloing, even if the production is very thin. A good chorus hook again too.<br /> The acoustic driven <font color="#ffff00">Why</font> is an ok mid-tempo ballad, but not equalt to the strength of the rest of the material.<br /> The album closer is a cover of <b>Neil Young's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Rocking In The Free World</font>. Tobe honest, I could do without Alibi's version. Once you have the original and <b>Van Halen</b> and <b>Bon Jovi</b> covering it, anything else isn't going to match. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A strong debut as far as the songwriting and the performances go, but I'd love to see the band be taken under the wing of an outside producer/engineer to ensure the best sonic quality is delivered. Imagine these songs with the power and production quality of Masterplan or Sunstorm…a very good album could have been a truly great British melodic rock record. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Misdemeanours</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Chase:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vince O' Regan:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Wright:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Mills:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>A J Mills:</b> Guitars</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pulse</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Double Cross</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Ready<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Masquerade <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Reason<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gabrielle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> By Your Side <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who's Foolin' Who <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Yesterday's News<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Changes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost On The Inside<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Why<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rockin' In The Free World<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a85400" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Eden</b> <font color="#ffffff">Open Minds</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD086 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/eden-openminds.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Vince O'Regan</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51.05</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.majesticrock.com" target="new">Majestic Rock</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Eden is a UK melodic rock band that features <b>Nick Workman</b>, vocalist for one of my favourite bands <b>Kick</b>, and guitarist <b>Vince O'Regan (Bob Catley, Pulse, Alibi)</b>.<br /> I'm a big fan of Nick and I'm pleased to hear anything he releases, be it with <b>Kick</b> or solo.<br /> <b>Eden</b> is an interesting album – it mixes traditional British melodic rock with a more adventurous edge, which sometimes sees the guys head off into a more experimental range. If I'm honest with myself, it isn't the easiest album to listen to – it doesn't adhere to any typical melodic rock boundaries, instead challenging listeners to pay attention with additional instrumentation and some unexpected musical passages and pace changes.<br /> Workman's lead vocals are what sells this record for me. It's not an easy album to describe, but I don't think it would be unfair to suggest that it is part <b>Kick</b>, part <b>Pulse</b>, part <b>Led Zeppelin</b> inspired classic rock and part something a little different again.<br /> The album differs from <b>Kick</b> in that it is not as modern in feel – definitely more classic rock, yet with an aggressive edge at times that gives it a heavier vibe.<br /> Helming the sound is the Tommy Denander of British rock – <b>Vince O'Regan</b>. I've not always been enthusiastic for his production skills, but his guitar playing is of the highest caliber.<br /> True to form, I'm not sold on Vince's production of this album – the whole guitar/keyboard/drum sound is much as it always is – a little on the tinny side – and not beefy enough. Those familiar with <b>Pulse</b> and the last Catley album will know it well. Sadly my enjoyment of those two albums were affected by poor production.<br /> However, this alum is a lot more comfortable to listen to, so credit where it is due.<br /> As far as the song highlights - <font color="#ffff00">Close Your Eyes</font> isn't the big melodic rocker you might expect to open any album, but it gets better each listen.<br /> The moody <font color="#ffff00">Fools Parade</font> is a more instant track and the closest thing here to <b>Kick</b>. A great chorus melody and lead vocal add to the intense feel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Chase The Sun</font> features a strong lead vocal and an interesting and somewhat adventurous passage midway through the song, plus some fine guitar work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heads Up</font> is a great all out rocker as is the even faster paced <font color="#ffff00">All Fall Down</font>, which is another track that has a sparse sound that becomes better with each listen.<br /> On a softer note, <font color="#ffff00">How Far You Are</font> is a terrific ballad, filled with and emotional vocal and great melodic hook. The album closes with the varied and intense rocker <font color="#ffff00">Erase And Rewind</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Eden</b> isn't going to appeal to all fans of <b>Kick</b>, nor fans of more traditional by-the-numbers melodic hard rock. It is a challenging record that works superbly in places and doesn't quite hit the mark in a few other areas.<br /> A beefier sound might have helped deliver the message the band envisioned, but at the end of the day, it is a piece of work the guys can be proud of. It will be down to the individual tastes of <b>Kick</b> fans as to how this rates with them. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Open Minds</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nick Workman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vince O'Regan:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Rodgers:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al Mills:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Screaton:</b> Keyboards / Guitar</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kick</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pulse</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Close Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love/Hate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fools Parade <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Incomplete<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chase The Sun <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heads Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Far You Are <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back For More<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Fall Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On A Day Like Today<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Erase And Rewind<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#452ec7" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mikey Jones</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Light Of Day</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">E-Z Sounds</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">EZSCD001 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mikeyjones-thelightofday.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Mikey Jones</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51.44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/gb.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mikey-jones.co.uk" target="new">Mikey Jones</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">While <b>Kick</b> vocalist <b>Nick Workman</b> was off working on his record, band mate and guitarist <b>Mikey Jones</b> was working on one of his own.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Light Of Day</font> is the debut solo album for the <b>Kick</b> guitarist, which like <b>Eden</b>, is a little of the traditional <b>Kick</b> sound mixed with something new.<br /> Both Nick and Mikey have experimented a little with their solo albums and let's face it, <b>Kick</b> do the same with their albums, so don't expect straight ahead melodic rock here.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Light Of Day</font> is a little closer to the sound of <b>Kick</b> than <b>Eden</b> is, then adding even more mood and intensity.<br /> Mikey does a fine job here as lead vocalist, not to mention adding some pretty intense and intricate guitar parts.<br /> My only problem is that I don't think the vocals are clear enough in the overall sound. They are either hidden by effects all the time or lost in a muddy mix. I think perhaps Mikey underrates his abilities, but I think the very fine songs of this album would have benefited even more had he believed in himself to push the vocals to the front of the mix.<br /> Taking a look at some of the tracks - <font color="#ffff00">Suffocating</font> really pushes boundaries, but at its heart is a catchy keyboard hook. <font color="#ffff00">Who…?</font> is an instantly catchy melodic rock which is probably the most commercial track of the album and my favourite.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Drunk On Emotion</font> is more sentimental in nature and has another strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No Tomorrow</font> follows the mood of the ballad, but picks up the tempo a little while delivering another good chorus, even if the vocals are a little too processed by effects.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">As One</font> is another strong and moody ballad while the title track and <font color="#ffff00">Swear Blind</font> continue the moody mid-tempo feel set by <font color="#ffff00">No Tomorrow</font>.<br /> I'm not sold on <font color="#ffff00">Lament</font>, but the feel good duo of <font color="#ffff00">Summer Daze</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The End Of Time</font> closes the album closes the album on a nice anthemic kinda feel.<br /> There are 2 hidden bonus acoustic tracks which I will leave as a surprise for those that grab the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A solid melodic rock album and good debut from Mikey. Looking at the two <b>Kick</b> side projects just released, I prefer the production of <b>Eden</b> and the songs of <font color="#00ffff">The Light Of Day</font>, so they are kind of even at the end of the day. I dare say that all <b>Kick</b> fans would be wise to invest in both. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Light Of Day</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikey Jones:</b> Vocals, Lead & Acoustic Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al D'Orado:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Big Mac:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lawrie Paul:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Knight:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kick</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Suffocating<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who...?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Drunk On Emotion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Tomorrow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Light Of Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Swear Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lament<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Summer Daze<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The End Of Time<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#9a4e4e" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Felony</b> <font color="#ffffff">First Works</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM138 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/felony-firstworks.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Sascha Paeth</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 71.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 29</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Symphonic Prog Pomp</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">One of the more pompous and overblown intros in recent memory will be the first thing listeners get to hear of Swiss rockers <b>Felony</b>.<br /> This band's sound is hard to describe, but I'll do my best. Progressive pomp melodic hard rock? European Symphonic pop/prog?<br /> Whatever the banner you choose to slot the band under, there is a lot going on within this record. Too much for some I'm sure, but to break it down, fans of light progressive with a big symphonic pomp twist will be wise to check this out.<br /> The band also features both a male and a female lead vocalist. They don't take individual songs, but rather both sing in and around each other on each track.<br /> It makes for an interesting listen, but again, won't be for everyone. Their vocals are well matched as they duet and also sing in unison through various parts of the album.<br /> The biggest problem with so much music going on and some very complicated vocal parts is getting it all into place. Wisely the band has chosen the highly regarded European producer <b>Sascha Paeth</b> to work magic for them – a move that pays off.<br /> Regardless of personal taste, this album sounds very well put together and mixed evenly and cleanly.<br /> Track highlights? It is a pretty consistent album to be honest. The music must suit the ears of the listener, but the title track <font color="#ffff00">Felony</font>, plus <font color="#ffff00">My Way, Justice</font> and the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Promising Heart</font> all deliver strong melodic moments. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Symphonic progressive pomp may be a mouthful, but so to is the music of <b>Felony</b>. There is a lot to digest here and one listen just won't cut it. At 71 minutes in length, it is perhaps a little too long, but you can't argue with the sound quality or the efforts of the band in trying to deliver an interesting piece of music. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> First Works</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Wildi, Andrea Richner:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Markus Geiger:</b> Guitars, Keyboards & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bjorn Rindlisbacher:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thomas Brogli:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Urs Fischer:</b> Guitras & Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Symphonic pomp prog!</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> An Introduction To<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What A Felony <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Say Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Justice <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tonight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Promising Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cyberspace<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Disappointed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On Life's End<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Return<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ready To Win<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#758a7c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Planet Alliance</b> <font color="#ffffff">Planet Alliance</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00025 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/planetalliance.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Anders Theander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.net" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Planet Alliance</b> is an apt name for this project. A stack of European melodic metal stars have formed an alliance to record this record.<br /> Stars of <b>Cloudscape, Last Tribe, Ozzy Osbourne, Hammerfall, Freak Kitchen, Narnia, Rob Rock</b> and more gather under the watchful eye of <b>Magnus Karlsson (Last Tribe, Allen/Lande)</b> to produce something similar to Karlsson's recent work such as <b>Starbreaker, Allen/Lande</b> and <b>Tony O'Hora</b>.<br /> Far from an instant album, this one takes a lot of listening to and in the end doesn't quite reach the heights that Karlsson's previous work has. It has the same style, but not the same substance.<br /> For the names involved, it could be a better album than it is, but I think that all comes down to the songs featured. Karlsson has set the bar impossibly high with his previous work and while this album features a similar style and theme, it just isn't as memorable as the aforementioned recordings. I think the album repeats itself a little and for whatever reason I am not warming to the voice of vocalist <b>Mike Andersson (Cloudscape)</b> as much in this context.<br /> Looking through the tracks, <font color="#ffff00">The Real You</font> is a knockout opening track – the most commercial and instantly memorable song of the album, with a slight gothic overtone and a killer double kick-drum tempo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Remember Me</font> also features a strong chorus, but it required a few listens to get into properly.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ain't No Pleasin´ You</font> is one track I don't think works as well as intended. It doesn't flow as well and the chorus isn't the most likable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Calling My Name</font> is better from the outset. A frantic pace and instantly cool guitar riff/song melody. A good chorus, but some killer guitar work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Taste Of Paradise</font> is an example of where the album begins to sound a little same-ish.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Quickening</font> is a nice variation – a slower, moodier approach and one of the album's best tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Divided We Stay</font> and <font color="#ffff00">It's Your Cross To Bear</font> offer more of the same as earlier tracks, but perhaps without the standout choruses.<br /> On a brighter note, <font color="#ffff00">The Great Unknown</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Where To Go</font> are stronger tracks and are the best of the second half of the record. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> If the collaborated artists plan to continue to work under this banner, then this is a good start. As a stand alone melodic metal release, it is solid, but perhaps isn't quite as alluring as some other albums out there.<br /> Competition in the market place is stiff and with this release I tend to think that I have heard it before. That said, what I do hear, is mostly still very good and the sound quality is unquestionable. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Planet Alliance</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Andersson:</b> Vocals, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Karlsson:</b> Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaime Salazar, Anders Johansson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Daisley, Magnus Rosén:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mattias "IA" Eklundh, Janne Stark, Carl-Johan Grimmark:</b> Guitars</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Karlsson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Cloudscape</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Real You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Remember Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain´t No Pleasin´ You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling My Name <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Taste Of Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Quickening<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Divided We Stay<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It´s Your Cross To Bear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Great Unknown <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where To Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Digging Your Own Grave<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#9b643c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Moonstone Project</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Time To Take A Stand</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD080 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/moonstone-timetotakeastand.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Matt Filipinni</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Blues Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.majesticrock.com" target="new">Majestic Rock</a> <a href="http://www.moonstone.it" target="new">Moonstone</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>79%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a rather interesting release. A lot of work has gone into this, yet I remain unsure of how much the traditional melodic rock fan base will go for this. And I'm even more unsure of how much I personally will play this once the review is completed.<br /> This is one of those records that will appeal to a specific section of the rock fanbase and not so much outside of that circle.<br /> <b>Moonstone Project</b> is a hard rock blues rock record based around the talents of Italian guitarist <b>Matt Filippini</b>, who also co-writes all but one track here – that track being a cover of <b>Free's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Fire & Water</font>.<br /> What makes this a project is the number of guest stars and man, this record has an extensive list of names. A different vocalist handles each track and lining up are <b>James Christian, Glenn Hughes, Kelly Keeling, Graham Bonnet, Eric Bloom, Paul Shortino</b> and <b>Steve Walsh</b>.<br /> Guest musicians include <b>Howie Simon, Ian Paice, Carmine Appice</b> and <b>Daniel Flores</b>.<br /> The album is obviously a true labor of love for Fillipini. It is extremely well played, sounds sonically solid but is it likeable enough?<br /> There is an air of self indulgence here and the album can be slow paced plodding at times…but if the right fanbase are targeted; (ie traditional blues rock fans), then there is bound to be some impressed punters around.<br /> The album kicks off with a fairly laid back blues rocker <font color="#ffff00">Slave Of Time</font>, featuring <b>Kelly Keeling</b>. I don't think it is one of the album highlights, but does set up the overall theme and style of the album for listeners.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Not Dead Yet</font> features <b>Graham Bonnet</b> in full raspy vocal force. The tempo is better suited to getting the momentum rolling and might have been a better album opener.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fire And Water</font> is an average cover of the <b>Free</b> track featuring Italian vocalist <b>Enrico Madidini</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rose In Hell</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Where Do You Hide The Blues You've Got</font> both feature <b>Glenn Hughes</b> in full blown blues mode. You know Glenn can sing this stuff in his sleep and does an admiral job here. The former rocks a little faster, the latter is a slow blues number.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beggar Of Love</font> is an uptempo blues rocker featuring <b>James Christian</b>. Not a bad track, but not the usual fare for Christian.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">City Of Lights</font> – featuring <b>Steve Walsh</b> – has an appealing chorus hook and some great vocals for fans of Steve's.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Pictures Of My Lonely Days</font> features <b>Paul Shortino</b> and is a pretty classy old school blues rocker with a solid hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">On The Way To Moonstone</font> is a full blown 70s psychedelic rocker featuring <b>Eric Bloom</b> and <b>Chris Catena</b> on vocals. Again, quite an accomplished track, but not one I will play too often. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> 9 tracks spread over nearly 50 minutes gives an indication of the pacing of the album. No one is in a hurry to get to the end of each song and there are some fine individual performances on display. Fillipini knows his way around a guitar and is in passionate form. <b>Glenn Hughes</b> is perfect for his role as is <b>Paul Shortino</b>, with <b>Seve Walsh</b> and <b>James Christian</b> offering the two surprise vocals for me – enjoyable stuff.<br /> But, be warned that this is a blues project and is best suited for fans of that genre. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Time To Take A Stand</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kelly Keeling, Carmine Appice, Graham Bonnet, Steve Walsh, James Christian, Paul Shortino, Eric Bloom, Glenn Hughes, Enrico Madidini, Chris Catena:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Filliplini:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Mori:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nik Mazzucconi:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gianluca Tagliavini:</b> Hammond Organ</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Blues Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Manic Eden</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Slave Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not Dead Yet <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire And Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rose In Hell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beggar Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Do You Hide The Blues You've Got<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> City Of Lites <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pictures Of My Lonely Days<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Way To Moonstone<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#937e53" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Rekuiem</b> <font color="#ffffff">Time Will Tell</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD073 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/rekuiem-timewilltell.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Steve Slater & Karl Wilcox</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58.20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.majesticrock.com" target="new">Majestic Rock</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Rekuiem</b> are a British melodic metal outfit that rock like its 1983 and there's no holding them back.<br /> A couple of tunes pull the tempo back to reflect a little, but for the most part, this is an in-your-face metal outing, with tempo matched only by the flaying guitars.<br /> What I like about this album – besides the overall old school vibe – is the guitar playing. The sound is a little thin, the bass is too far back in the mix and the guitar could be chunkier, but <b>Steve Slater</b> can shred, no doubt.<br /> I'm also enjoying the classic metal voice of <b>Paul Parry</b>, who while playing tough guy throughout the album, can still deliver a good vocal melody.<br /> Highlights include the great classic metal opener <font color="#ffff00">Nightmare</font>; the semi-acoustic/semi-metal ballad <font color="#ffff00">Time Will Tell</font>, which transforms mid-song; a cover of the legendary <b>Sabbath</b> tune <font color="#ffff00">Paranoid</font>; the energetic <font color="#ffff00">Angel Of Sin</font> and the epic closer <font color="#ffff00">Sacrificial Wanderer</font>.<br /> <b>Diamond Head</b> guitarist <b>Brian Tatler</b> guests on <font color="#ffff00">Warewolf</font> with a blazing solo, which should give people another clue as to the band's direction. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Time Will Tell</font> is a serious, hard rocking old school metal album, but fun to listen to at the same time. Sometimes you don't need a lot of words to describe an album – this is a well written, well executed example of the genre it represents. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Time Will Tell</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Parry:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Slater:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Karl Wilcox:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gordon Denny:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>NWOBHM</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Iron Maiden</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Nightmare <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wildfire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sinners<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Time Will Tell <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Werewolf<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Paranoid<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Death<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your Keeping<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angel Of Sin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sacrificial Wanderer <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#8e3144" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Slamer</b> <font color="#ffffff">Nowhere Land</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD276 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/slamer-nowhereland.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Mike Slamer</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62.12</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>97%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>100%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Mike Slamer</b> only releases a new album every couple of years for a good reason. They are all total quality releases. In fact, they are all perfect! The man is a perfectionist and a production genius.<br /> Mike's best accomplishment in the melodic rock world to date has been the two <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> records, more precisely the second one <font color="#00ffff">Slaves Of The New World</font>.<br /> That was an incredible melodic rock record that I always wish I gave a perfect 100 to, as it continued to grow on me past the review time and is still has not lost any of its brilliance…and remains a record I recommend to all to buy without hesitation.<br /> So many fans have been looking forward to a new <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> record. While that is unlikely to ever happen, Mike has still kept making records with two studio and one live album with <b>Billy Greer's Seventh Key</b> project.<br /> <b>Seventh Key</b> was a slightly different beast to <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> – same Slamer trademarks and same perfect production style, just a little different manly due to Billy's own personal influences over the record.<br /> Looking to get back to making records for himself, <b>Mike Slamer</b> teamed with <b>Strangerways/The Sign</b> vocalist <b>Terry Brock</b> to form <b>Slamer</b>. This band is different beast again, albeit one with definite similarities to his recent work.<br /> In fact, I would describe the Slamer debut <font color="#00ffff">Nowhere Land</font> as a direct cross between <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> and <b>Seventh Key</b>. There are influences from both present.<br /> Brock certainly makes his mark here, but also present is <b>Billy Greer</b>, who contributes some very prominent harmony vocals. Incidentally, Brock helped out with harmony vocals on the last <b>Seventh Key</b> album, so you can see the crossover style here.<br /> The album is more proficient as far as progressive elements and has more technical nuances than <b>Seventh Key</b>. Over however, I think this is a far mellower album than I expected, or perhaps than it could have been. That really isn't a bad thing; it merely means one must perhaps be a little more selective as to when to play it. It is more a mood record than the 'play anytime' <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> records.<br /> One thing is for certain. This album features some the very finest guitar playing and finest AOR solos that I have ever heard. <b>Mike Slamer's</b> control of his instrument is unparalleled as far as I am concerned. Every track features a new reason to be amazed – be it a technical shred, progressive lick or slow, controlled emotional solo. Amazing just does not cover it.<br /> Not one note or syllable is out of place here, which is a testament to his technical genius. The record is ultra smooth and produced to perfection. There are a couple of small issues that prevent this album from reaching a perfect score.<br /> The biggest surprise for me is perhaps the vocals of <b>Terry Brock</b>. His voice is awesome – on this album he sounds smoother than ever. He sounds a million bucks here. I must add however, that in some way, his rough, raw and raspy edge has been polished over somewhat. There is part of me that misses that edge.<br /> And that same notion applies for the whole album. It is simply so tightly produced and is so slick in the delivery that I can't help but feel the edge of <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> is missing.<br /> The other thing I found is that the momentum of the album is not helped by the track sequencing – rocker / slower / rocker / ballad etc. A revised order where the tempo did not alternate might have offered a better slightly better flow. Minor points for what is really a technically perfect slice of melodic rock.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> As is morally and contractually required – all Slamer albums must feature a classic 'big intro' - one that builds the tension before the opening song bursts to life. This album is no different. The intro to Nowhere Land features some mighty guitar riffs and a slight progressive touch. Once underway <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere Land</font> lets the listeners know that <b>Slamer</b> is going to be packed with - well...everything you expected!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere Land</font> bobs and weaves its way through 6 minutes of harmonious vocals and changing landscapes, mainly painted by some serious guitar theatrics and a pounding rhythm section.<br /> The tempo is immediately pulled back to allow a slow guitar solo to set up <font color="#ffff00">Strength To Carry On</font>. This is an amazing track that couldn't be more packed with melodies. The tempo may be slow, but the hooks are glorious. The soaring chorus is the most obvious reference point, but there is so much to listen to throughout the track, including a mid-song bridge, intricate guitar parts and subtle melodies that become known after repeated plays.<br /> It's back to high octane levels with the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Not In Love</font>. A 90 second passage of progressive guitar plays kicks the song off before falling back into a more familiar groove. The verse swaggers along, and then the killer chorus – backed with harmonies galore – bursts through the comfort zone. This is another 6 minute track, so there are a few diversions along the way. Certainly not your average formulaic melodic rock!<br /> The 8 minute ballad <font color="#ffff00">Come To Me</font> is something out of the ordinary once again. I'm not big on the tempo going back and forth between fast and slow on alternative tracks, but this stuff is just so good. It's nearly 2 and a half minutes into the song before we hear the voice of <b>Terry Brock</b>, with the atmosphere and the tension being built constantly. Brock's voice is so smooth, so emotionally charged and the chorus is once again layered with rich harmonies. Some fine soloing closes out the track.<br /> Time to rock again and the groovy <font color="#ffff00">Higher Ground</font> quickly becomes an album favourite. Brock sounds just a little bit grittier here and rocks it a little more - as does <b>Mike Slamer</b> with some hard edged guitar riffing and a good strong song tempo. But the chorus! AOR glory of course! The song features more amazing guitar solos and some truly out of this world uplifting layered vocals towards the end of the track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Jaded</font> follows the album formula and starts slow. <b>Terry Brock</b> never sounded so smooth and sweet as he does here and Mike's guitar playing is eloquent to say the least. Out of nowhere there appears a heavier, faster and more intense bridge / chorus double play that as it continues on keeps getting bigger and bigger and is another example of perfect high-tech AOR.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beyond the Pale</font> is another slow and dramatic song that takes a few minutes to build before some fine laid back guitar soloing and moody keyboard parts take the song into its second half. Not a lot of singing within this one – it's more an epic movie score type of song. It features more haunting and emotional vocals from Terry and more hidden melodies that reveal themselves with time.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Runaway</font> again starts slow. More slow guitar soloing builds a fairly sparse track before various layers are added and the song builds to another orgasmic multi-layered chorus that rocks a little harder. This song concludes a mid-album triple play of sultry, moody AOR that appears very laid back to start with, but gains intensity as you get to know the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Audio Illusion</font> is a much needed straight ahead melodic rocker. The song is all hooks and all high-tech harmonies and layers and layers of instruments. I'm not sold on the hook, but I love the fact the lyrics are having a dig at the modern day pop music industry.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Circle</font> is part of a hard rock double play that closes out the album. Great hooks, great harmonies and a strong chorus and a relatively straight forward approach.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Superstar</font> is even better. This is straight out of the <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> hand book and is the heaviest and most hard rocking track of the whole album. I could have used another couple of tracks like this – dramatic, intense and a little progressive also. It rocks! </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Production perfection! <font color="#00ffff">Nowhere Land</font> is another shining example of how you don't need to spend a million dollars to sound a million dollars. It also sets up <b>Mike Slamer</b> with a new franchise and a new sound to build upon. He could have pushed the boundaries a little more, but that will come. In the meantime, here we have a simply brilliant high-tech melodic rock album that features some of the best harmony vocals around and some of the best AOR guitar playing ever. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Mike Slamer - Streets<b> . </b>City Boy<b> . </b>Angry Anderson<b> . </b>Tower City;<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Steelhouse Lane - <a href="reviewseurope.html">Metallic Blue</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Steelhouse Lane - <a href="steelhouselane-slavesofthenewworld.p3">Slaves Of The New World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seventh Key - <a href="seventhkey.html">Seventh Key</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seventh Key - <a href="seventhkey-theragingfire.p3">The Raging Fire</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seventh Key - <a href="seventhkey-liveinatlanta.p3">Live In Atlanta</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slamer - Nowhere Land</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Terry Brock:</b> Lead Vocals, BG Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Slamer:</b> Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, BG Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chet Wynd:</b> Drums, BG Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Billy Greer:</b> Background Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Slamer</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Terry Brock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steelhouse Lane</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Seventh Key</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Nowhere Land <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strength To Carry On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not In Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Come To Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher Ground <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jaded <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beyond the Pale<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Runaway<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Audio Illusion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Perfect Circle <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Superstar <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#bf1e1e" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sunstorm</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sunstorm</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD302 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/sunstorm.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Dennis Ward</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.59</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.joelynnturner.com" target="new">Joe Lynn Turner</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> has forged a long and successful career playing classy blues driven hard rock. He has fronted <b>Rainbow</b> and <b>Deep Purple</b> and won worldwide acclaim.<br /> But the one album that kick started it all remains a fan favourite to this day. And that album wasn't a hard rock or a blues rock album. Joe's solo debut <font color="#00ffff">Rescue You</font> was a glorious slice of pure melodic rock that showcased a side of JLT's voice we haven't heard a lot of over the years.<br /> Beneath that gravelly authentic rock voice there is a smooth, soulful and totally commercial side to Joe that finally gets to shine again on <b>Sunstorm</b>.<br /> <b>Sunstorm</b> is a project built around Joe and the decision to showcase his AOR voice in its best possible light – a return to the <font color="#00ffff">Rescue You</font> album stylistically, yet with production values matching today's sonic demands.<br /> Instead of putting pressure on Joe to write an album of new songs capturing an old vibe, the label worked through a song list of classic and unreleased AOR songs with Joe which both parties thought would best capture his melodic side and deliver fans a quality AOR release. Boy, did they get that right.<br /> The songs chosen range from a few AOR classics, a few more obscure tracks and some unreleased songs from the desk of <b>Jim Peterik (Survivor, Pride Of Lions, Kelly Keagy)</b>.<br /> The songs selected are a very special set of songs.<br /> But none of this would matter if those involved couldn't get the sound right. In steps Mr. Perfect - <b>Dennis Ward</b>. Dennis produces, adds backing vocals, bass plus additional guitars and keyboards. The man is a machine. Also featured are <b>Uwe Reitenauer</b> on lead guitars, <b>Chris Schmidt</b> on drums and <b>Jochen Weyer</b> on keyboards.<br /> The powerhouse band adapt perfectly to the AOR material and add an extra dimension of power to Joe' delivery. The band also gives this release a slightly European feel, which is no problem at all for me, as frankly - the Europeans have kicked the USA's butt this year.<br /> The album is utterly and totally melodic in that pure AOR sense and it retains an 80s soul, but the kick-ass band and tight production give it a quality that makes it contemporary enough to compete with the best releases of 2006.<br /> And <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b>? Where does one start with the compliments? Basically he just sings his absolute bollocks off here and sounds like an angel driving a Leopard tank – demolishing these songs with the gusto of a 20 year old.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Keep Tonight</font> is a perfect opening track, an AOR guitar riff kicking off a track that is bathed in keyboards. True to the edict of the album, this is pure AOR with a 80s feel, but not an outdated 80s production. A catchy chorus and some ultra smooth vocals set the album up beautifully.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fame And Fortune</font> picks up the tempo a little more and continues the guitar/keyboard dual going. This is straight ahead melodic rock, performed perfectly.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heart Over Mind</font> is one of two classic tracks lifted from <b>Van Stephenson's</b> breakthrough AOR masterpiece <font color="#00ffff">Righteous Anger</font>. This emotional and powerful ballad suits Joe to a tee and I have seldom heard him produce such a smooth, soulful and emotional lead vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">This Is My Heart</font> picks up from the ballad brilliantly. This begins a powerful one-two punch of AOR gloriousness. This song remains subtle and mid-tempo through the pure AOR brilliance of the verse and bridge, until a more powerful rock chorus takes over.<br /> Then there is the amazing <font color="#ffff00">Strength Over Time</font> – a song full of heart and soul and most importantly – glorious AOR hooks! It just keeps building and building and Joe's vocals are so good that this song will be up there with the very best come the 2006 Awards.<br /> The album needed a slight reprieve about now; otherwise emotional exhaustion might set in! Another You is the perfect foil. I don't even have to see the song credits to know this is a <b>Jim Peterik</b> tune. This is one of Jim's adult contemporary style numbers that doesn't have a feature chorus, but rather runs along a set melodic story path.<br /> The best thing about this album is the song sequencing. When working with a selection of songs written by various outsiders, the biggest challenge is to place them into a sequence that sounds as if they were written for the one album. <b>Dennis Ward</b> does that perfectly here, so just when needed, a big rocker is delivered to get the album's momentum rolling again. That rocker is of course <b>Van Stephenson's</b> in your face anthem <font color="#ffff00">Fistful Of Heat</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love's Gone Wrong</font> pulls thing back one notch but keeps the album rocking. This is another perfect fit for the album and for Joe. A snappy guitar riff, melodic verse and bridge, then a punchy keyboard filled chorus. Quit simply – more glorious old school AOR!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Night Moves</font> is a more straight forward melodic rocker with a heavier delivery and a tough rocking chorus.<br /> Time to head back to some more glorious and classic AOR in the guise of <font color="#ffff00">Danger of Love</font>. A mellow but very melodic verse kicks into a great AOR chorus with yet more astounding vocals from Joe.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Making Up For the Last Time</font> is a mellower more sentimental mid-tempo ballad that fans of old school 80s AOR will love. The prefect love song for a summer movie soundtrack.<br /> To close the album we get a song many will be familiar with. The <b>Jim Peterik/David Carl</b> ballad <font color="#ffff00">Arms Of Love</font>. This is a nice sentimental way to close the album and again showcases a very fine and smooth vocal from Joe. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Simply put – utterly essential for all <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> fans and beyond that, essential for fans of old school AOR and melodic rock.<br /> This album features a killer set of songs and some amazing performances. It is a real crowd pleaser for those that partake in this melodic music scene and even if you don't own a single JLT album – this might just make you aware of what a special vocalist he is. <b>Sunstorm</b> is my brand new favourite ever JLT release. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Rescue You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing's Changed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under Cover<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="joelynnturner-hurryupandwait.html">Hurry Up And Wait</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="joelynnturner-undercover2.html">Undercover 2</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="joelynnturner-holyman.html">Holy Man</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="joelynnturner-jlt.p3">JLT</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="joelynnturner-theusualsuspects.p3">The Usual Suspects</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunstorm</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Lynn Turner:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Uwe Reitenauer:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Schmidt:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Ward:</b> Bass, Backing Vocals, Additional Guitars & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jochen Weyer:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Ward</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Classic style commercial AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fame And Fortune<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Over Mind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is My Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strength Over Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fistful of Heat<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love's Gone Wrong <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Moves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Making Up For the Last Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Arms of Love<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b3b48b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Avalon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Avalon: The Richie Zito Project</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD303 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/avalon-avalon.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Richie Zito</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.35</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> September 22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Avalon</b> in the name bestowed upon the new <b>Richie Zito</b> project. But this is a little different than what might normally be expected of the famed producer. <b>Avalon</b> sees Zito return to his musician ways, playing guitar, bass, synth and even a mandolin, all the while producing the affair and writing the material. Check the production credits for Zito, you will always see that he is a very hands-on guy – helping with the co-writing and adding additional instrumentation to the albums he works on.<br /> Here he gets to do it all, except sing. That's where AOR fans get a real bonus. Richie calls in all his friends from past projects and it is these singers that make the album what it is.<br /> Zito is one of my favourite producers of all time. His work and his style are perfect to my taste. I don't think there is a more technically superior producer in the business and all his albums sound a million bucks! All except for this project! Yes, the one thing that confuses me most about <b>Avalon</b> is the occasionally questionable production quality.<br /> One would think that Zito would have the ability and every desire to ensure something with his own name on it was as sonically perfect as his more famous work.<br /> I think it all comes down to budget. Richie is used to working with major labels and major dollars. It is sad and unfortunately reality that there simply isn't the interest for an album like this outside these circles normally covered by this site.<br /> So it all comes down to smaller budgets and smaller resources. That sad, the production really isn't that bad. It's just a little rough in places and across the album it does vary a little.<br /> What exaggerates the problem is that the main two culprits are the opening track and track 3. The better produced songs are further back in the album. Plus, coming off a month of listening to <b>Mike Slamer</b>, just about anything is going to sound rough!<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blue Collar</font> opens the album in fine pure AOR style with a very smooth <b>Hugo</b> vocal up front. The production quality sounds a little rough to me, but the song is entirely enjoyable and features a very memorable and instant chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Is He Better Than Me</font> just adds more quality music to the great time vocalist <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> is having these past few years. This is a great 80s sounding classic melodic rocker that starts slow but builds to a very commercial and catchy chorus. JLT sounds great as usual and the track itself is a perfect match to his own <b>Sunstorm</b> record.<br /> <b>Eddie Money</b> makes the first of two appearances on <font color="#ffff00">Nightmare</font>, but as much as I love Eddie, this track is very rough around the edges and I think it misses the mark somewhat. To jump to later within the album, it is on <font color="#ffff00">I Put My Life In Your Hands</font> that everyone redeems themselves. This is a classic Eddie Money song and sounds like it could have been lifted directly off the brilliant <font color="#00ffff">Can't Hold Back</font> record.<br /> Jumping back to the middle of the album, <font color="#ffff00">Oh Samantha</font> is a very fine AOR ballad featuring a finely tuned <b>Joseph Williams</b>. Great for JW fans.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Avalon</font> is a moody, but uptempo AOR rocker featuring the always fantastic <b>Danny Vaughn</b>. Quite simply, this track is a must for all Vaughn fans.<br /> <b>Eric Martin</b> contributes two lead vocals to the tracks of <b>Avalon</b> and he does not disappoint. The mid-tempo melodic rock anthem <font color="#ffff00">Life Got In The Way</font> is a little rough as far as the sound quality, but brilliant for its melodic qualities.<br /> Eric also closes the album with the very smooth pop ballad <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Want To Want You</font>. Once again…essential for Martin fans.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blue Monday</font> again features <b>Hugo</b>, but alongside him is <b>Giorgio Moroder</b>. It's mainly Hugo here and the song is another fine uptempo melodic rocker.<br /> The retro ballad <font color="#ffff00">Forever I Will</font> has a touch of the blues and features <b>Richie Kotzen</b>. It is a little out of character from the rest of the album – such is Kotzen's distinct style and delivery.<br /> At the end of the album we fine two amazing pure AOR tracks with the great <b>Philip Bardowell</b> on vocals. The another ballad <font color="#ffff00">Can't Forget You</font> and the more straight forward <font color="#ffff00">Good Things Take Time</font> are both very catchy and very memorable example of great AOR that mirror the sound of Bardowell's own solo album of last year. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This album is more about the songs and the performers rather than a super-slick big budget sound. As far as the songs go – you will be hard pressed to find a finer collection of old-school AOR songs.<br /> The fine vocal performances and the satisfying sequencing of the songs makes for a very easy to listen to album and all in all, this is another must have for fans of traditional AOR. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Avalon</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Various:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richie Zito:</b> Guitars, Bass, Synth, Mandolin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Decker, Greg Bissonette:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Turbin:</b> Strings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Carbone:</b> Piano</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Vocalists Assembled</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Classic style AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Collar <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Is He Better Than Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nightmare<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oh Samantha<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Avalon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life Got In The Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Monday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever I Will<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Forget You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Put My Life In Your Hands <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Things Take Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Want To Want You<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Taz Taylor Band</b> <font color="#ffffff">Welcome To America</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM137 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/taztaylorband-welcometoamerica.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Taz Taylor</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42.30</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 25</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Who is <b>Taz Taylor</b> and his band? That question is about to become easier to answer as once this album is released as Taz and Co. should find themselves on the receiving end of some new fans and a greater public profile.<br /> Taz is a British guitar player that moved to the US in the late 90s and has been working on this album ever since. He has hooked up with a fellow Brit in <b>Graham Bonnet</b> – famed vocalist for <b>Alcatraz</b> and <b>Rainbow</b>.<br /> Taz is a fan of the classic hard rock style displayed by <b>UFO, Rainbow</b> and <b>Michael Schenker</b> and those influences play out over this record.<br /> This record offers melodic rock fans a taste of classic British hard rock in the form of a gritty guitar dominated record that also features some fine lead vocals from Bonnet.<br /> Bonnet has probably seen better days as a vocalist but this album represents one of his best performances in a long time.<br /> The album is also very nicely produced. It is clear and evenly mixed, but not too polished as to remove the gritty edge such an album needs.<br /> Star of the album for me though is Taz himself. While he may not be a household name, he makes a strong mark here with some impressive guitar work. There's a certain shred and solo component, but overall the album feels very restrained and well constructed. There are also a few very enjoyable passages of slower more delicate soloing, such as the cover of <b>Gary Moore's</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">Parisienne Walkways</font>.<br /> Highlights amongst the album include the rocking opening track <font color="#ffff00">Fighter's Fist</font>; the melodic friendly <font color="#ffff00">Radio Luxembourg</font>; the moodier <font color="#ffff00">Haunted</font> – which features an intense vocal and <font color="#ffff00">Wall Of Sound</font>, which is think sounds like classic <b>UFO</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Welcome To America</font> is a solid album of traditional style melodic British hard rock, with some straight ahead rockers and a few slower more melodic numbers. It sounds great and is rounded out by some enjoyable performances by all concerned. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To America</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Graham Bonnet:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Taz Taylor:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Livoni:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dirk Krause:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Miller:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fighter's Fist <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Radio Luxembourg <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Parisienne Walkways<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Happy Hour<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Haunted <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome to America <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silent Fall<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wall of Sound <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Reprise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Goodbye Mr C.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="65%"><font color="#e3c376" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sammy Hagar</b> <font color="#ffffff">Livin' It Up</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="35%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Rhino</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Cabo Wabo Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> R2 74097 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/sammyhagar-livinitup.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Bob Daspit</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / Country Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.redrocker.com" target="new">Red Rocker</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Sammy Hagar</b> has always followed his heart and once again on <font color="#00ffff">Livin' It Up</font> he proves to be his own man and changes things in a way that not everyone is going to get or accept.<br /> I expect very mixed reviews for this record from the press and fans alike, as you are either going to get it, or you ain't. I get it. Totally.<br /> Even before talking to Sammy about this album, I could hear the conviction and passion behind it. After speaking with the Red Rocker, I can attest to his passion, comfort and total self belief in what he is doing.<br /> In recent years Sammy's live shows and his life in general have drifted towards embracing the Mexican way – sun, surf, beach and tequila. Sammy has two of his own theme bars, his own exclusive tequila beverage and a growing legion of fans that are with him all the way.<br /> The only thing missing was to take this lifestyle theme into an actual record. <font color="#00ffff">Livin' It Up</font> is now documented proof of the change within Sammy Hagar. He's as happy as a pig in shit and he wants to tell the whole world.<br /> He does so with a thoroughly infectious record that you really just can't help but like.<br /> Unfortunately some fans are just not going to be able to get past the change in musical direction and in some ways this record hands Sammy's critics the ammunition they have been looking for.<br /> I don't think Sammy's lyrical style has changed too much here, but there are more obvious lifestyle references dotted throughout the record, to the point where this could be considered a concept record about embracing everything that is good within Sammy's life.<br /> There is a noticeable country twang through the record that has and will leave some scratching their heads, including a couple of full on country tunes and the majority of the album is driven by an authentic earthy and acoustic vibe.<br /> Take the style aside and you are able to analyze the performance. And that's where Sammy gets major credit. You can really hear the energy and the electricity within this record. Producer <b>Bob Daspit</b> has captured the band in a raw, live atmosphere, but at the same time has ensured that the record has a crisp, sharp feel that Sammy's recent solo recordings have missed.<br /> The record sounds perfect and Sammy's individual performance is one I would rate among his best.<br /> His voice has seldom sounded so in shape - smooth and comfortable, yet also delivering that trademark rasp and the odd scream like it was recorded 20 years ago.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Opening the album is the infectious groove of <font color="#ffff00">Sam I Am</font>, which frames the album perfectly from the outset. A little slide guitar, a little twang and a classic Hagar vocal drive a catchy as hell hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Living On A Coastline</font> slows things down with a beach boogie vibe. A relaxed happy lyric is delivered with conviction by Hagar. The feel good harmonies and a catchy chorus suck you in. The opening two tracks are vital to the message being delivered here and they leave you with no doubt where this album is going.<br /> I imagine some folks might stop right here, but you will be missing some fine music if you do so.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mexico</font> is a more rocking track, driven by a grittier lead guitar and some Santana like drum rhythms, especially later in the song.<br /> The breezy mid tempo rockers <font color="#ffff00">The Way We Live</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I Love This Bar</font> compliment each other perfectly before the <b>Kenny Chesney/Sammy Hagar</b> written <font color="#ffff00">One Sip</font> pays further tribute to the fine Mexican way.<br /> Making a resprise appearance is <font color="#ffff00">Halfway To Memphis</font> (from <font color="#00ffff">Not 4 Sale</font>), this time easily the most country themed track of the album, complete with slide guitar, that distinctive twang and a laid back acoustic delivery.<br /> There are a few covers once again on <font color="#00ffff">Livin' It Up</font>. <font color="#ffff00">I Love This Bar</font> covers the <b>Toby Keith</b> hit but may as well have been written by Hagar himself and <font color="#ffff00">Rainy Day Women</font> covers the <b>Bob Dylan</b> classic – once again more or less true to Hagar's lifestyle philosophy and is here perfectly adapted to the feel of this record.<br /> Then there is Hagar's adoption of the Staple Sister's classic <font color="#ffff00">Let Me Take You There</font> – a the track you have already heard and in its position gives the album a nice uptempo lift.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sailin</font> is a relaxed and happy acoustic pop song, not quite a ballad and not quite a country tune. It features a sweet vocal and more feel good vibes. <font color="#ffff00">Someday</font> is a short acoustic country ballad that closes out the album and the story contained in relaxed fashion. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> As I said earlier, you just can't help but like this record – or at least, I can't help it! It is not to be taken seriously at all and doing so will reduce your appreciation. This is a record to be cranked loud while cruising in the car or sitting outside in the sun next to the BBQ. It is the perfect summer drinking record.<br /> Those looking for a glimpse of the lyrically more intense Sammy, evident on <font color="#00ffff">Marching To Mars</font> or with <b>Van Halen</b> might have to rely on those records for your fix. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Recent Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-marchingtomars.html">Marching To Mars</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-redvoodoo.p3">Red Voodoo</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-ten13.p3">Ten 13</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-notforsale.p3">Not For Sale</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-live.p3">Live</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sammyhagar-essentialredcollection.p3">Essential Red Collection</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Livin' It Up</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sammy Hagar:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Victor Johnson:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Lauser:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mona:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sammy & The Wabos</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kenny Chesney / Rockin' Country</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Sam I Am <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living On A Coastline <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mexico<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way We Live <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Love This Bar <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Sip<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rainy Day Women<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Halfway To Memphis<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sailin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Take You There<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Some Day<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0080c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Rob Lamothe</b> <font color="#ffffff">Long Lazy Curve</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Livewire</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Cargo</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> LW016-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/roblamothe-longlazycurve.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tom Treumuth</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/gb.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.roblamothe.com" target="new">Rob Lamothe</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">To some degree <b>Rob Lamothe</b> remains an unsung genius. To those that 'get him', his music is poetry and his lyrical insights are matched by few. Rob may be best known for fronting the <b>Riverdogs</b>, but his solo work is a growing body of amazing music – but is more marginalized as far as who it will appeal to.<br /> Rob solo is more singer/songwriter in approach and is largely acoustic driven with a sometimes folk-ish approach. In his favor, Rob really has a raspy, haunting quality to his voice which facilitates raw pure emotion flowing through to the listener.<br /> Take a listen to a track like <font color="#ffff00">Ashes To Ashes</font>. Rob's warm raspy vocal sucks you in to his world, a place where you believe every word you hear.<br /> I'm happy to report that this album is a little more uptempo than the last couple, which is something I was certainly hoping for.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Romeo's Barbershop</font>, with its chorus hook and electric guitar riff is an album highlight as is the more acoustic, but uptempo pop rocker <font color="#ffff00">Good Enough For Me</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Til Forever Is Over</font> may be a little too country for some, but its raw energy and honesty are engaging. The album closes with three laid back songs penned and entirely played by Rob. More testament to his talent, but I prefer the fuller band tracks of the rest of the album.<br /> The album is produced by Canadian veteran <b>Tom Treumuth</b> and sounds sonically balanced and fresh. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Obviously, this is essential for Lamothe fans – who will no doubt already have this. If you are unfamiliar with Rob, but have an ear for the mellower stylings of singer/songwriters – Rob is one of the best and is well worthy of checking out. Start right here and work backwards! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Solo Discography</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong>Gravity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Being Human<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Project Hum<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am Here Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Steering With My Knee<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wishing Well Motel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Above The Wing Is Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Lazy Curve</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Lamothe:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Loops<br /> + Various </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Lamothe</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Riverdogs</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hello Beautiful<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ashes To Ashes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Romeo's Barbershop <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Enough For Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Til Forever Is Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am Here With You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't Broken Yet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Walk Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broke Down Train <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Goodbye Calgary<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Wonder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 12 Moons<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#800080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Joseph Williams</b> <font color="#ffffff">Two Of Us</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">WHD Entertainment</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/josephwilliams-twoofus.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.37</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Adult Contemporary</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>53%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>40%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>60%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This album was slated for release some two years ago but disappeared without explanation, leaving me to believe it was off the radar for good. But here is this Japanese only release, with a new title, but the same 11 tracks within.<br /> Joseph is one of the great AOR vocalists there ever was, his time with Toto perhaps the best known and more recently his two <b>Vertigo</b> releases. On this album Williams allows his vocals to be the main focal point of the album, accompanied only by a grand piano on each track, hence the title if one was to hazard a guess.<br /> It is safe to say that Joseph's vocals are not as smooth as they once were. Time has lowered his range and given him a raspier delivery. And in a few places Joseph avoids going for that big note – most obviously on <font color="#ffff00">Unchained Melody</font>.<br /> Still, the passion and emotion that he carries is still there and some of his fanbase will appreciate this. I do call myself a fan, but in this case I find it hard to get very passionate about this release.<br /> I am not a big fan of covers albums and one filled entirely with ballads is not something I am going to play too often!<br /> 50 minutes of slow piano ballads is just too much for me. There is some real cheese here – <font color="#ffff00">Because You Loved Me, We're All Alone, Can't Help Falling In Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Save The Best For Last</font> the worst offenders.<br /> There are a few famous rock ballads – <font color="#ffff00">Everything I Do (I Do It For You), Don't Want To Miss A Thing</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Fight This Feeing</font> all desperately trying to hold my attention.<br /> But in the end – they don't and I find myself longing for the pure AOR strains of <b>Toto's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> After sitting through this album I feel the need to play some <b>Megadeth</b> in order to restore the balance in my mind. This is just too soft and sweet for anything other than background noise at a dinner party. Mr. Williams great talents seem wasted on this release. Add to that the price of a Japanese import and I think not too many JW fans are going to have this in their collections. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Solo Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Joseph Williams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am Alive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 3<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Early Years<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="vertigo.p3">Vertigo</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="vertigo-2.p3">Vertigo 2</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Two Of Us</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joseph Williams:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Cox:</b> Piano</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joseph Williams</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Want To Miss A Thing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unchained Melody<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Because You Loved Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now And Forever<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Do It For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Have I Told You Lately<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Fight This Feeling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We're All Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Help Falling In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save The Best For Last<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Demon Angels</b> <font color="#ffffff">Time Of Confusion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Perris Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">PER1722 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/demonangels-timeofconfusion.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Robin McAuley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 34.52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.perrisrecords.com" target="new">Perris Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Demon Angels</b> is a new band that on this occasion features the great <b>Robin McAuley</b> on lead vocals. The band appears to be a piecemeal kinda of affair, with the rhythm section based in Italy (where their parts were recorded) and then American guitarist <b>Chris Falco</b> and featuring "special guest" lead vocalist McAuley – also responsible for putting this all together and producing the album.<br /> But as special guest, Robin delivers all the lyrics for the album with Falco providing the music.<br /> Anything Robin appears on is going to have instant appeal as he really has a great voice for this kind of music. And for the very reason that Robin sings his ass off here, the record is made all that much better.<br /> To be honest though, without Robin I doubt this album would have scored a record deal. It just isn't that memorable. The music and the riffs and even the lyrics have all been heard before a hundred times.<br /> The production is ok, average…but the uptempo songs rock and the guitars are nice and loud, which saves it. Then there's Robin's voice. He sounds great on this material which is classic style hard rock and is some of the heavier material I have heard him sing since <b>MSG's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Save Yourself</font>.<br /> Highlights include the double time rocker <font color="#ffff00">Let's Dance</font> which features some great guitar work, the opening groove of <font color="#ffff00">Gonna Get It</font> and the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">Victoria</font>. The second half of the material on offer is nowhere as strong as the opening 4 tracks. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> More a project than a band and noting I have not heard or covered before. And at only 8 tracks and a mere 34 minutes, it is die-hard fans only that are going to be picking this up. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Time Of Confusion</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robin McAuley:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Falco:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Lie:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thomas Kirst:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robin McAuley</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Gonna Get It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Movin' On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let's Dance <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Victoria <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Be Long<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Promise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Won't Let Go<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#768837" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Andy Logan</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ride</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">KOAN Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">K-313165 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/andylogan-ride.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Andy Logan</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.06</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Southern Rock / Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.andylogan.com" target="new">Andy Logan</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>77%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There's some good singer/songwriter stuff around at the moment and former <b>Little America</b> guitarist/vocalist <b>Andy Logan</b> delivers another one of those albums.<br /> This is his second full solo album and sees him on form. Andy has a dark and raspy voice, and stylistically delivers a mix of <b>Little America</b> style Americana mixed with a darker more southern mix of s blues, country and rock essence. There's also a little acoustic country in there and a pronounced soulful vibe.<br /> This is far more bluesy and roots based than the more commercial <b>Little America</b> and I think this album has a certain limited appeal – which in itself it just an observation, but probably a shame, as the musical credibility displayed here is no less valid than the best of another melodic rock artist.<br /> If the last <b>Charlie Sexton</b> album appealed and <b>Rob Lamothe</b> is also a favourite, this is more like a Midwestern meets Southern USA version of Rob's sound.<br /> This album features 14 short and honest tracks with some fine slide guitar and some raspy narrative vocals. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0080ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Edguy</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rocket Ride</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Nuclear Blast</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/edguy-rocketride.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Edguy</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60.10 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.nuclearblast.de" target="new">Nuclear Blast</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Some will wonder why the hell it has taken me so long to review what is one of 2006's best metal releases. Easy – the band's record label. Yes, I got the promo, but be buggered if the whole thing isn't completely ruined by a lame voice over every minute or so, reminding you what you are listening to – fading the music in and out to do so – even during the choruses!! Dickhead record labels…<br /> That's just too bloody annoying sorry… so I never reviewed it. Now I have purchased the original retail version so I can write a review without wanting to throw the disc out the window.<br /> Originally released in January, <font color="#00ffff">Rocket Ride</font> is <b>Edguy</b> at their best.<br /> The album is immaculately produced and is a true in your face melodic metal album.<br /> The crunch of guitars is almost worth the price of the album alone. Mixed with a pounding rhythm section, the songs really do jump through the speakers. But what makes this album for me is the band's extra attention to detail come chorus time. There are more harmony vocals on here than on some AOR albums and each song has a definite chorus to remember, which is what draws the listener back for more.<br /> This German melodic metal outfit has come up with some great material here and the production is truly world class.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Sacrifice</font> is immense and more than 8 minutes in length, but <font color="#ffff00">Wasted Time, Return To The Tribe</font> and the mellower and very melodic <font color="#ffff00">Save Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Superheroes</font> all deliver classic riffs and melodies too.<br /> The band doesn't sound like <b>Masterplan</b>, but they do have the same philosophy as far as including hooks and melodies within some bone crunching hard rockers. Check them out. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a07a21" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Evergrey</b> <font color="#ffffff">Monday Morning Apocalypse</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Inside Out</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/evergrey-mondaymorningapocalypse.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Evergrey</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.insideoutmusic.com" target="new">Inside Out</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is another killer album from a few months back that I want to give a little press to.<br /> Sweden's <b>Evergrey</b> have changed their approach a little for this release, which sees the band toughen up and modernize their sound somewhat.<br /> This is a hard rocking metal release, but one that's very melodic and has a unique style. The guitars are uncompromising and in your face, there are modern production effects and occasional overdubs, yet never does the band forget to include a melody and a good chorus hook.<br /> <b>Evergrey</b> have dark and moody style which is almost gothic at times, and their delivery is also mixed - aggressive, sometimes progressive and sometimes just straight ahead melodic hard rock/metal.<br /> Which ever way you look at it, they are delivering something cool and different and given that this album is so well produced, they offer a quality product when at times it is hard to find something original to check out. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Choirboys</b> <font color="#ffffff">Big Bad & Acoustic</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Liberation Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BLUE087-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/choirboys-bigbadacoustic.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Choirboys</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 61.11</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.choirboys.net" target="new">Choirboys</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is how you do an acoustic record…brilliant. Strip it back totally, re-arrange only when absolutely necessary and put down some straight-to-tape emotional and appealing lead vocals.<br /> What's more…include your very best and well known tracks and a few classic album cuts, plus a couple of quirky covers.<br /> All the band's classic tracks are included here – from the rockers <font color="#ffff00">Struggletown, Run To Paradise, Boys Will Be Boys</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Empire</font>. A few of the ballads are also stripped down – <font color="#ffff00">Never Gonna Die</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Cold Outside</font> being favourites.<br /> A couple of covers – <font color="#ffff00">Bad Boy For Love</font> (<b>Rose Tattoo</b>) and the <b>Vanda & Young</b> penned <font color="#ffff00">Hey St. Peter</font>.<br /> Perhaps there is only the singer that remains in the band, but live and on record here they put in a great collective effort and this is perhaps my favourite of all the <b>Acoustic Blue</b> releases to date. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#7a6641" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jon Stevens</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Works</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Liberation Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BLUE086-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/jonstevens-theworks.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jon Stevens</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.jonstevens.com" target="new">Jon Stevens</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>72%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>60%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Jon Stevens</b> is a little different. One of my favourite singers on the planet, he continues to be his own worst enemy in misunderstanding what the public want of him.<br /> We want a new rock record or a new <b>Noiseworks</b> record. But for whatever reason (only Stevens knows the answer) these never come. Now we have this unplugged record, which is half brilliant, half crap.<br /> The <b>Noiseworks</b> tunes were destined to be stripped back for acoustic purposes and here <font color="#ffff00">Touch, Take Me back, RIP, In My Youth</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Simple Man</font> all sound brilliant. <font color="#ffff00">Hot Chilli Woman, Miles And Miles</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Freedom</font> are not far behind, all driven by Stevens soul driven power rock voice.<br /> But no Stevens record would be complete without a self indulgent portion, so the record buying public are once again subjected to some of the horrid R&B that was his featured on his solo album <font color="#00ffff">Ain't No Life For The Faint Hearted</font>, which sold next to no copies.<br /> Basically I feel like skipping through the middle 5 tracks of the album to avoid these tracks and get back in the swing at track 9 when the Noiseworks classics continue.<br /> No one wanted to hear Stevens do the horrible Doors cover <font color="#ffff00">Light My Fire</font> once and they sure don't want it again (now in stripped back form) here. Rock Mr. Stevens…please ROCK! </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Inxs</b> <font color="#ffffff">Switch (Tour Edition)</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Burnett</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Epic</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> 82876894762 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/inxs-switchtour.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Inxs</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.inxs.com" target="new">Inxs</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is purely and simply a cash-in CD and I have a pronounced dislike for such releases. Inxs are about to hit Australia for a full tour so naturally a Tour Edition of their hit album <font color="#00ffff">Switch</font> appears just in time.<br /> Thankfully this is one cash-in that delivers some value. This is now a 2 disc set with the original album and a bonus disc.<br /> On the bonus disc is 4 live tracks – <font color="#ffff00">Pretty Vegas, Hot Girls, Devil's Party</font> and the essential <font color="#ffff00">Hungry</font>. All good versions and good honest live recordings. Then there are 3 video clips – <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Strangers</font> (the new single), <font color="#ffff00">Afterglow</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Pretty Vegas</font>. Additionally there is a very interesting 30 minute documentary – the <i>Making Of Switch</i>.<br /> All very good viewing, with the downside of it being CD Extra formatted, rather than a DVD you can watch on something other than a PC.<br /> Switch was a very good album that remains so and these extras are a nice incentive for those that don't yet have the album or those that truly have to have everything.<br /> But as per usual, it is a deep shame that record labels and artists continue to reward the lazy fans. Those that bought the album immediately have to buy it all over again for the bonus features while those that couldn't be assed initially now get a cool bonus. That just doesn't seem right. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#477c87" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ten</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Twilight Chronicles</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD299 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ten-thetwilightchronicles.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Gary Hughes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 73.43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 25</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.ten-online.com/" target="new">Ten</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Multiple line-up changes and dodgy re-recordings of past hits aside, <b>Ten</b> still have a passionate fanbase and a considerable catalogue of material many bands would be proud to call their own.<br /> I have said before and I'll say again, not too many bands of the recent era can boast as many albums to their name as <b>Ten</b> can. This is the band's 8th album of all new material and after giving their last album – the 10th Anniversary re-recorded hits release – a bit of a bollocking, I am happy to report that <b>Gary Hughes</b> and the gang are all but back on track with this release.<br /> I'm not sure how appealing an album of re-recorded hits is anyway, so if you are one of those that have just been collecting the new studio albums as they come along, this will sound like the band has not skipped a beat since their <font color="#00ffff">Return To Evermore</font> release.<br /> There is a slightly different feel to this album, but with <b>Ten</b> that has often been the case as they have moved through their 10 year history and into their 11th.<br /> I really like this release, but then again, I have liked every <b>Ten</b> release (of new material at least!) to date.<br /> This album is going to appeal to those that liked the band's earliest couple of releases and the last studio album. Fans of the heavier middle period of the band's history – such as <font color="#00ffff">Spellbound</font> – might not be as enamoured with this album.<br /> And while I think the band is definitely back on track, I wouldn't go so far as to call this release classic – just very good.<br /> I'd like to take this opportunity to hail this album as lead guitarist <b>Chris Francis'</b> best work in the band to date, with some fine soloing throughout and a nice mixture of sounds and textures used. <b>John Haliwell's</b> riffing as usual holds it all together.<br /> The 12 minute Prologue and opening track <font color="#ffff00">Rome</font> sets up the album and while not overly catchy and certainly rather long, it drifts into <font color="#ffff00">The Chronicles</font> which is pretty much a classic Ten track – <b>Gary Hughes'</b> dulcet tones, soaring guitars and a great chorus hook.<br /> The song's structure and method of moving between verse and the chorus is trademark of what <b>Ten</b> have done in the past. The familiarity will be appreciated by fans.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Elysian Fields</font> is all too familiar also - but in a good way. It is nothing I haven't already heard before, but this 7 minute ballad has a sweeping, haunting quality not unlike the band's early sound mixed with <font color="#00ffff">Return To Evermore</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hallowed Ground</font> gets the tempo back up and rocking again. A glance at the CD indicates another epic is upon us, this one running some 10 minutes. A nice guitar fuelled 2 minute intro lines the track up nicely.<br /> Its some 5 minutes into the track before the full bridge-chorus-hook set up becomes totally apparent, but it's worth the wait. A nice guitar solo launches the track into its next phase, but at about the 7 minute mark things begin to wear a little thin as the track merely repeats earlier parts. There is no need to make this an epic for the sake of being epic. The track isn't that classic it needs to be this long.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">This Heart Goes On</font> is a typical sentimental Ten ballad with all the necessary elements – heartfelt vocals, piano, stand out guitar lick. Surprisingly, as much as I like the song, the chorus is nowhere near as big as past ballads.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Oblivion</font> amounts to what is my first real surprise of the album. I dig this album and the songs, but there really aren't any surprises – until you get to this track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Oblivion</font> is one of the most commercial and openly upbeat tracks I have heard Gary write and perform. This is a cracking uptempo pop/rocker with a nice guitar riff and a brilliant chorus. Some seven minutes long, the track still ends too soon and I just love it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Twilight Masquerade</font> heads back into more familiar territory. While getting off to a slow start, the typical rocker does build and brings a memorable chorus-bridge double once it hits its mark.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tourniquet</font> is somewhat different for the guys. This is another lengthy rocker, but the guitar sound is far dirtier and grittier for the lack of a better word. Gary's vocals remain smooth throughout and the chorus is ok, but the guitar rules this track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Born To The Grave</font> is also a little different. Typical Ten in its delivery, but a little left of center as far as the sounds of the melody and the layers within the song. It makes for an interesting listen, although at the end of the day it is not among my favourites of the album.<br /> Closing the album is another epic…well, 7 minutes and bit at least. <font color="#ffff00">When The Night Is Done</font> is a slow starting moody piece of music that builds slowly during its run. No major chorus hook here, but subtle vocal memories and a lush, layered approach to the music.<br /> It certainly has an epic feel and closes the album in a mildly dramatic fashion. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Gary Hughes</b> described this album as epic. If you mean long, then yes, it is a very long record, but not overly epic. At times I think the material could have been edited for better effect and overall the album is maybe about 15 minutes longer than it needed to be.<br /> Still, there are some new <b>Ten</b> classics to be enjoyed and I think the die hard fans will be more than happy with the results.<br /> The production quality is back on track and the real drum sound makes a welcome change from the Anniversary release. A couple of bigger choruses are about all I could ask for. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Ten<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Name Of The Rose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Robe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Say Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-spellbound.p3">Spellbound</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-babylon.p3">Babylon</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-farbeyondtheworld.p3">Far Beyond The World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-returntoevermore.p3">Return To Evermore</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-theessentialcollection.p3">The Essential Collection</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Twilight Chronicles</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hughes:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Francis:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frank Basile:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Haliwell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Hodson:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ten</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hughes</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Prologue; Rome<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Chronicles <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Elysian Fields <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hallowed Ground<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Heart Goes On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oblivion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Twilight Masquerade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tourniquet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born To The Grave<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When This Night Is Done; Epilogue<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#964b4b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fair Warning</b> <font color="#ffffff">Brother's Keeper</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD297 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/fairwarning-brotherskeeper.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Fair Warning</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70.22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 25</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Fair Warning</b> return after a break some fans thought might be permanent. The band broke into two side projects – <b>Dreamtide</b> and <b>Soul Doctor</b> – both offering something a little different from the traditional FW sound.<br /> But fans always want the original and I am happy to say that <b>Fair Warning</b> pick up exactly where they left off with their comeback album Brother's Keeper. The band hasn't changed anything. <font color="#00ffff">Brother's Keeper</font> mixes the best of <font color="#00ffff">4</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Rainmaker</font> and sees the band use the same guitar sound, vocal style and production feel as their past records.<br /> Everything that the band is known for is back - the guitars are big, the keyboards swirl in the background, <b>Tommy Heart</b> is in fine voice and the overall production has that epic feel. <font color="#ffff00">Don't Keep Me Waiting</font> kicks off the album in fine uptempo bravado – typical Fair Warning.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Generation Jedi</font> continues the big rock feel before the sentimental ballad <font color="#ffff00">All Of My Love</font> gives fans something to wave their lighters to.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rainbow Eyes</font> lifts the tempo a little, but the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Push On Me</font> puts the album back in overdrive.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wasted Time</font> is a strong ballad, albeit a rocking one. Another highlight is the mid-tempo <font color="#ffff00">Once Bitten, Twice Shy</font>, which is a nice change in the album's general formula.<br /> The bonus track <font color="#ffff00">Still I Believe</font> is one of the album highlights and I'm glad it was included. It is one of the more melodic and commercial tracks of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All I Want To Do</font> is a nice poppy kind of way to close the album, but adding 6 minutes of silence at the end before a 30 second Bavarian chant blasts through the speakers is not a wise move in this age of iPods and MP3 files.<br /> Two small points to add. Firstly, I'm sure long time fans will wholeheartedly disagree, but I think the 70 minute playing time is, in this case, a little too long. And the band's guitar sound – the tone these guys use isn't for everyone, but I suspect the established fan base who are used to it will be buying this without hesitation. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A strong European melodic hard rock release and a solid comeback for the band. The album doesn't deliver any real surprises, but at the same time, there is no unwarranted style or direction change which often frustrates fans. <font color="#00ffff">Brother's Keeper</font> is purely and simply classic <b>Fair Warning</b>. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fair Warning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rainmaker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Go!<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Four<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brother's Keeper</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Heart:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Helge Engelke:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>CC Behrens:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ule Ritgen:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fair Warning</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Keep Me Waiting <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Generation Jedi<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All My Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rainbow Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Push Me On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wasted Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Once Bitten Twice Shy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me Lies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Dark<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still I Believe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Wanna Do<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#5e4d80" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> <font color="#ffffff">Mystica</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/axelrudipell-mystica.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Axel Rudi Pell</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 28</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.spv.de" target="new">SPV</a> <a href="http://www.axel-rudi-pell.de" target="new">Axel Rudi Pell</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Ah, the ever reliable <b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> returns for another mythical goblin inspired romp through the European hard rock Kingdom of Predictabilia. I really do like this album, but then again, why wouldn't I? Axel once again takes the blueprint of the last 5 albums and adds new riffs and new lyrics to create this, the 6th studio album to feature <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> on lead vocals.<br /> I have liked every one of these albums as they are all essentially the same - a short guitar intro, 9 tracks, 2 epics…a couple of slower tracks and some great melodic hard rockers.<br /> I don't know if there is a point where you could justifiably start to get annoyed that essentially the same album is released time after time, but if it ain't broke – why fix it? And this album is no different.<br /> I think there is a good portion of Axel's vast fan base that would riot if his album veered off the set path. <font color="#00ffff">Mystica</font> is immaculately produced, well executed, features solid performances and if you like the past albums – there are 9 more classic ARP songs here.<br /> The differences or stand out points of this release? Well, <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> sings his ass off. There really are some fine vocals on here and some of Johnny's best extended screams that I have heard. His voice is perfect for Axel and is the thing I look forward to the most. Here he certainly does not disappoint.<br /> Song wise…no surprises, but <font color="#ffff00">Rock The Nation</font> works particularly well for me, as does <font color="#ffff00">Living A Lie</font> and the big ballad (with some fine guitar work) <font color="#ffff00">No Chance To Live</font>.<br /> This passionate ballad and the title epic track <font color="#ffff00">Mystica</font> feature some utterly brilliant vocals from Gioeli and it really is hard to ignore the infectious nature of the songs.<br /> The score reflects the quality of this album and the fact it all but matches the quality of recent releases. Deduct 20 points if you were looking for something different! </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A lengthy review really isn't necessary. If you liked the last album…or the one before that…or before that again…then you'll love this release too! There is no bump in the road here. Axel shreds, the band are as tight as size 8 spandex pants and Johnny Gioeli sings his absolute ass off. Axel fans – mark as another must have. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Wild Obsession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nasty Reputation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eternal Prisoner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ballads<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Between The Walls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Made In Germany<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Moon Pyramid<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewseurope.html">Oceans Of Time</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="axelrudipell-theballads.html">Ballads 2</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="axelrudipell-masqueradeball.p3">The Masquerade Ball</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="axelrudipell-shadowzone.html">Shadow Zone</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="axelrudipell-knightslive.html">Knights Live</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="axelrudipell-kingsandqueens.p3">Kings & Queens</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mystica</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johnny Gioeli:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Axel Rudi Pell:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ferdy Doernberg:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Terrana:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Volker Krawczak:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hardline</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Mysterious Return (Intro)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fly To The Moon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock The Nation <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valley Of Sin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living A Lie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Chance To Live <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mystica <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hanted Castle Serenade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Losing The Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Curse Of The Damned<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808040" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lunatica</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Edge Of Infinity</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD300 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/lunatica-edgeofinfinity.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Lunatica</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 25</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Symphonic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Lunatica</b> are one of those take it or leave it kind of artists. You have to be into their vibe to be into the album. Their vibe however, is one that does have a considerable fan base. European Symphonic hard rock is a market of its own with a slew of band's vying for the fan dollar.<br /> <b>Lunatica</b> have taken steps in the right direction to become a bigger name. I'm not sold on every track here and I think they need to work on their hooks a little further before breaking into the big time.<br /> What appears a fairly innocuous listen over the first couple of plays comes to life once you get to know it a little better and that's when the passion of the guys becomes evident. But the strong opening doesn't quite carry through the whole record.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sons Of The Wind</font> is a great example of doing everything right – a powerhouse arrangement, authorative vocals and some dramatic symphonic passages of music.<br /> The rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Who You Are</font> features some sultry vocals before crashing into something larger than life – this is perhaps the album stand out and definitely the track I would be promoting as a single.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Out!</font> is darker and more edgy and reminds me of <b>Evanescence</b>. In fact, comparisons to Evanescence and also <b>Nightwish</b> are inevitable given the band's style and their female lead vocalist. Lunatica might just have the ability to compete with them though.<br /> I spoke of the need for stronger choruses and I think that is highlighted through the middle of the album before the double kick drum fired <font color="#ffff00">Worlds Unleashed</font> grabs your attention.<br /> Former <b>Asia</b> frontman <b>John Payne</b> contributes a fine passionate duet on <font color="#ffff00">Song For You</font>, while personal favourite <b>Oliver Hartmann</b> appears in duet on a refrain of the closing track <font color="#ffff00">Emocean</font>. However, the same song twice in a row diminishes his contribution and I would have dropped the initial version entirely in favor of the one featuring Hartmann. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The album features a big production sound and great attention to detail during the symphonic passages. The guys have lifted their game from the debut – all areas have been improved on, but they still have a little room to go before becoming an essential band to have. A very strong first half of the record fades a little during a less memorable second half. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fables & Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Edge Of Infinity</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andrea Datwyler:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andre Leuenberger, Sandro D'Incau:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronnie Wolf:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Emilio Barrantes:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Seiberl:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Symphonic hard rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Female lead vocals</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Introduction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Edge Of Infinity <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sons Of The Wind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who You Are <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out!<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Song For You (Feat. John Payne) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Together<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Power Of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Words Unleashed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> EmOcean<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> EmOcean (feat. Oliver Hartmann) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Various Artists</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">It's So Easy - GNR Tribute</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Versailles Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/gunsnroses-tribute-itssoeasy.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Various</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.versaillesrecords.com" target="new">Versailles Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>57%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>45%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I like the guys at <b>Versailles Records</b>, but I think these tribute albums have reached their use-by date.<br /> A few guest stars appear for each volume and the rest is made up of the same names and faces and at times, the same tracks from past releases re-appear.<br /> In the case of this <b>Guns N Roses</b> tribute, the notable names are <b>Jizzy Pearl, Tracii Guns, Gilby Clarke, Joe Lynn Turner</b> and <b>Phil Lewis</b>. Trouble is, the quality is just too varied to make a consistent release.<br /> Highlights include <b>Drama Queen Die's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Think About You</font>, the ever reliable <b>Richard Kendrick's</b> version of <font color="#ffff00">You Could Be Mine</font> and then Jizzy, Tracii, Gilby and <b>Randy Castillo</b> join forces for <font color="#ffff00">Sweet Child O Mine</font>, which is more or less faithful to the original and the vocals of Jizzy sound pretty cool.<br /> On the other side of the coin <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> appears as part of <b>The Slashtones</b> doing <font color="#ffff00">Pretty Tied Up</font>. I love Joe but bloody hell, this track sounds like utter shite and he might regret being involved on playback. The sound quality is horrid and the backing vocals laughable.<br /> And that is the biggest problem with this whole project. The sound quality is for the most part very average.<br /> Hearing little known bands such as <b>Valerian, Radio Vipers</b> and <b>Joe Town</b> perform songs other well known artists have already paid tribute to just doesn't add up to an essential purchase. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Shark Island</b> <font color="#ffffff">Gathering Of The Faithful</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD292 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/sharkisland-gatheringofthefaithful.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Sercombe, Black & German Villacorta</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 66.34</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.sharkislandmusic.com/" target="new">Shark Island</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The return of <b>Shark Island</b>…who would have ever thought it? This is a great thing for fans of the band, unanimous in their belief that the band's career was cut short before they ever reached their full potential.<br /> There remains such a passion for the band's debut album <font color="#00ffff">Law Of The Order</font> that this release is bound to find it's way into many hands.<br /> Those that didn't pick up on the band first time around get a second chance here, but I feel that the majority that will be impressed with this release will be those long established fans.<br /> This is a very interesting release. It is not entirely as I expected it would be, but after living with it for some 2 months now, I could not imagine it being anything else.<br /> First a little background – before eventually splitting up, the band wrote and recorded a staggering amount of demos. Many have grouped these tracks and one certain grouping was being traded as the band's unreleased second album.<br /> Truth is, things never got that far. The great number of demos were just that and no second album was ever recorded. Until now.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Gathering Of The Faithful</font> is the result. Frontman <b>Richard Black</b> proclaimed that the band would first have to go back before they could possible move forwards, so on this album, the band's choice of 13 of their best original demos were gathered and re-cut from scratch.<br /> No polishing or re-mastering here - these are 100% new recordings and in some instances, completely new arrangements of some well traded classics. As a long time fan of the band, these songs are very familiar. The 2006 arrangement and fresh treatment of them however is not.<br /> I think fans that know these songs will be of the same opinion I have. At first the new arrangements took some getting used to. I was very surprised on at least a couple of occasions. The band have put a new spin on a few tracks here and the production and overall sound quality is perfect for the band. It is clear and mixed brilliantly.<br /> The band individually sounds as good now as they ever did. The vibe might be a little more laid back in places and the album is definitely a more mature piece of work, but the class of the band as writers and as musicians shines through in every way.<br /> Several tracks have a more acoustic base and a raw, stripped back feel, yet the attitude of the debut remains.<br /> The feeling of a mellower album is probably exaggerated by the relatively relaxed way the album starts. <font color="#ffff00">Blue Skies</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Tomorrow's Child</font> are acoustic driven and somewhat easy going compared with the angst of the debut.<br /> Then there is the sultry <font color="#ffff00">The Stranger</font>, which although slow in tempo, is a more riff driven track and features that trademark <b>Richard Black</b> snarl.<br /> The uptempo pop/rocker <font color="#ffff00">Go West</font> typifies this album. It has the bluesy swagger of the band's traditional sound and a great little chorus, but is more relaxed in the overall vibe.<br /> The rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Welcome Goodbye</font> is a very cool update on the original demo. Haunting, soulful and totally commanding of the listener's attention, the song features a warm but edgy vocal and spells out why this band means so much to fans.<br /> The subtle, smoldering rocker <font color="#ffff00">Life Goes On</font> sees the band dabbling with their <b>Led Zeppelin</b> affinity and is another testament to the musical ability of the guys.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Down To The Ground</font> is one track that hasn't been changed much from how it was written. I saw this track performed live by the band once in 1992 and to this day the melody remains familiar to me. This is classic rocking <b>Shark Island</b> and I love it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Looking For The Sun</font> has been updated beautifully. It was always a sentimental ballad, but this version features a brilliant vocal and a terrific updated arrangement. Another highlight.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heaven</font> has been rocked up a little and given a slightly more modern guitar sound, but still rocks as it always has and is another typical Shark Island rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">If I Had A Dream</font> is another of my long time favourites songs of the 'lost demos'. In this case it has been given the most dramatic facelift of all the tracks. The uptempo anthem rock ballad has been turned on its head to be a soft, subtle, emotional and haunting ballad, with an acoustic guitar and a raw, emotional vocal delivering the message.<br /> It has taken the most getting used to, but is such a classy song in every way.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Will To Power</font> is another traditional bluesy Shark Island rocker and like Heaven and Down To The Ground, could easily have been lifted from the debut. Same could be said of <font color="#ffff00">Need Your Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Temptation</font>, which fulfill the trend of the album getting heavier as it progresses. These two dramatic hard rockers have been updated with a more contemporary sound, but the style will be easily recognizable to long time fans. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The awarded score is reflective on me being a long time fan, even since the debut. I think those equally fond of the band will be of the same thinking, but those new to the guys may not be as easily impressed.<br /> <b>Shark Island</b> devotees finally have another album they can wrap their ears around and imagine most will be impressed. What cannot be mistaken is the class of the performance and production, which helps bring some classic songs into the now. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Law Of The Order<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gathering Of The Faithful</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Black:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Spencer Sercombe:</b> Guitars, Piano, Keyboards, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glen Sobel:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian Heilmann:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shark Island</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Black</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Skies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tomorrow's Child<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Stranger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Go West <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life Goes On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down To The Ground <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Looking For The Sun <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Had A Dream <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Will To Power <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Need Your Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Temptation<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Brother Firetribe</b> <font color="#ffffff">False Metal</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Spinefarm Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/brotherfiretribe-falsemetal.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.01</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.spinefarm.fi" target="new">Spinefarm</a> <a href="http://www.brotherfiretribe.com" target="new">Brother Firetribe</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Its Finland's turn to deliver a classic old school style melodic hard rock album wrapped up in a contemporary delivery and backed with a monster production and retail promotion.<br /> Sweden has <b>The Poodles</b> and Norway has <b>Wig Wam</b>. Finland has <b>Brother Firetribe</b>, the band formed by <b>Emppu Vuorinen</b> – guitarist for symphonic metal band <b>Nightwish</b>.<br /> The band also features an amazing vocalist in <b>Pekka Ansio Heino</b> – a melodicrock.com regular and all-round good guy.<br /> Emppu brings some of the symphonic flavor of <b>Nightwish</b> to <b>Brother Firetribe</b>, especially with the dramatic keyboard passages that dominate this record. The band has a flair for the dramatic and it's interesting to hear keyboards billed equally with the guitar parts.<br /> Swirling keyboards take command and along with the extremely likable vocals, drive the melodies, while the guitar is used primarily for supplying the underlying riffs and when the occasion calls for it, some flashy solos.<br /> The band's sound is reminiscent of the big American 80s synth driven high-tech production, at times reminding me of some of those classic American soundtrack anthems. This style is mixed with the band's European roots for a truly unique, yet familiar sound. Think early <b>Bon Jovi</b> meets <b>Treat</b> with a dash of <b>Cheap Trick</b> and <b>Van Halen</b> for good measure.<br /> Vocalist Pekka has a commanding voice that at times sounds a little like <b>Cheap Trick's Robin Zander</b> in his 80s hard rock mode. No wonder that the guys sound so comfortable covering <b>Cheap Trick's</b> rock anthem <font color="#ffff00">Mighty Wings</font>, from the <font color="#00ffff">Top Gun</font> soundtrack. It sums up the band's creed totally.<br /> As for the songs themselves, the guys can't do a thing wrong. This is an album packed with one great track after the other.<br /> The album opens in dramatic style with the moody synth drenched <font color="#ffff00">Break Out</font>, moving seamlessly into the sentimental rocker <font color="#ffff00">Valerie</font>, which delivers a knockout chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'm On Fire</font> is a moodier again and features a more restrained verse before one of the year's biggest choruses blasts through the speakers with the deafening roar of keyboards, guitars and massive vocals.<br /> The powerful and emotional ballad <font color="#ffff00">Love Goes Down</font> has a dramatic flair, while <font color="#ffff00">Devil's Daughter</font> lightens the tone a little.<br /> My pick of the entire album is the big dramatic anthem rocker <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Queen</font> which bursts through the speakers from the first note. The commercial beat and tone of <font color="#ffff00">One Single Breath</font> is a good choice as the single, but every track stands on its own here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lover Tonite</font> has that dark synth driven <b>Cheap Trick</b> feel again, <font color="#ffff00">Spanish Eyes</font> is a little darker again, but still hits hard and closing the album is <font color="#ffff00">Kill City Kid</font>, a track which is more guitar dominated than any other on the album and packs a real punch, featuring another big over the top chorus. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The band is mentioned alongside <b>Wig Wam</b> and <b>The Poodles</b>, yet is completely different in style. At the same time, this is definitely going to appeal to fans of these two acts, as like them, <b>Brother Firetribe</b> returns to the glory days of melodic hard rock to source their sound, but presents it in a more contemporary setting with a selection of catchy as hell songs and a monster production.<br /> Essential stuff for long time readers of this site and yet more proof that European bands are kicking major ass. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> False Metal</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pekka Ansio Heino:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Emppu Vuorinen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Flinck:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tomppa Nikulainen:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Not Listed:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Classic era melodic hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Break Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valerie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm On Fire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Goes Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil's Daughter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnite Queen <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Single Breath <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lover Tonight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spanish Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kill City Kid<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#4b5689" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Saracen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Vox In Excelso</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM135 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/saracen-voxinexcelso.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Martin Kronlund</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 72.44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> July 21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Symphonic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Saracen</b> has been doing their thing for some 25 years now. At this point the only original members are vocalist <b>Steve Bettney</b> and guitarist <b>Rob Bendelow</b>, but ask just about anyone and they would say the signature guitar and vocal sound are the most important ingredients to any band.<br /> This British melodic, symphonic hard rock band has a style of their own and a certain unique way of doing things and I must confess to not being pulled in on previous occasions.<br /> For someone not sold on a particular band, what harder a prospect could there be than be faced with reviewing a 73 minute concept album about the history of the Knights Templar?!<br /> To my surprise, this was easier than I anticipated. That is because <font color="#00ffff">Vox In Excelso</font> is a very fine record indeed and one, despite it's subject matter, is far more accessible than you might think. The sound quality is also excellent. The album is tightly performed and well recorded, with a powerful sound and clear mix.<br /> The lead vocals of Bettney are both authorative and graceful and help drive the melodies home.<br /> What I don't like is the female narrative every song or two, important in one sense to help convey the complex and lengthy story line, but annoying at times also.<br /> The music here is dominated by guitar and those strong vocals, but there is also a boat load of swirling keyboards and a lot of additional texturing, such as haunting backing vocals, dark and moody acoustic effects and an instrumental or two.<br /> The album has been very well put together and as concept albums should, flows easily from start to finish.<br /> Symphonic rock fans get their bit (<font color="#ffff00">Where Was Their God, Priory Of Zion</font>), hard rock fans get plenty to chew on (<font color="#ffff00">Meet Me At Midnight, The Order</font>) and fans of epics get the 9 minute <font color="#ffff00">Mary</font> to dissect.<br /> The first 1000 albums will be available in special edition booklet format, rather than the conventional jewel case presentation, which will make for a nice complete package to deliver the story in. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Saracen fans will be beside themselves with this fine effort. Fans of symphonic rock and British hard rock and also fans of concept pieces would do well to check this album out. It may not appeal to all, but it is an album of very fine quality which might just draw in a few new fans because of that. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Heroes Saints & Fools<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Red Sky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vox In Excelso</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Bettney:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Bendelow:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Cross:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Bendelow:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Bradder:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Saracen</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Symphonic Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Lament<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Meet Me At Midnight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Exile<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Order <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Militum Christi<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mary <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vive Dieu...Saint Amour<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Power & The Glory<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chain Reaction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vox In Excelso<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Was Their God?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Priory Of Zion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c1412b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Evil Masquerade</b> <font color="#ffffff">Third Act</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM134 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/evilmasquerade-thirdact.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Henrik Flyman</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.30</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> July 21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I'm surprised to see that after two pretty ordinary albums, the band actually found a label interested enough to give them a shot at album number 3. It seems however, that band mastermind <b>Henrik Flyman</b> was determined to top previous efforts and set about working hard on the songwriting and then concentrated on the production quality.<br /> Thankfully I am happy to report that he has done a fine job at improving both. This album sounds far superior sonically than either of its predecessors and the songwriting is also several notches above what I expected.<br /> The best change of all is new vocalist <b>Apollo Papathanasio</b> (ex-<b>Time Requiem</b>). He brings a far more commercial European metal feel to proceedings and the mostly over the top warblings of the band's original singer are gone.<br /> The subject matter and the delivery of the songs - classic demons and wizards style neo-classical metal stereotype material – is still somewhat larder than life and definitely an acquired taste.<br /> But there is a certain restraint shown here not previously evident and as stated the quality of the songs and the production make this quite listenable – more than I can say about the first two records. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The problem facing the band and the record label is overcoming the preconceived notion in the market place of just what an <b>Evil Masquerade</b> album is. The legacy of the first two records may haunt the band. If this was anything like those, I'd say avoid like the plague, but this is a pretty solid European metal album and the changes made now make it an album worth checking out – should the style sit the tastes. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To The Show<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Theatrical Madness<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Third Act</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Apollo Papathanasio:</b> Lead Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Henrik Flyman:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Buhl:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thor Jeppesen:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Rosenthal, Richard Andersson:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Evil Masquerade</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Time Requiem</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Devil's Last Temptation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Third Act<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Raves Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Descended From the Grave<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Far Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Dark Minstrel Plays<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Make You Burn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under the Surface of Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Orchestration For More Than One Horn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring On the World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Final Goodbye</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#313399" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Stonelake</b> <font color="#ffffff">Reincarnation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/stonelake-reincarnation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Stonelake</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.30</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.stonelake.se" target="new">Stonelake</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Stonelake</b> is the Swedish duo of <b>Jan Åkesson</b> (instruments) and <b>Peter Grundström</b> (vocals). The band has roots going as far back as the mid-80s, but only recently did the stars align in favor of the guys recording their first album.<br /> And quite a debut it is too. The band's own bio describes their sound as accurately as I could - melodic hard rock in the vein of <b>Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin</b> and <b>Bad Company</b>, but later era acts such as <b>Whitesnake, Van Halen, Journey, Riot</b> and <b>Dokken</b>.<br /> The end result is a powerful guitar driven melodic hard rock record which is big on melodies as well as riffs and featuring some powerhouse higher pitch vocals along the lines of <b>Tony Mills, Tony Harnell</b> and <b>Rob Moratti</b>.<br /> The band has quite a groove too, and impressively, they don't have the feel of a duo. The quality production gives the guys that full band sound. Once through the intro, the double hit of <font color="#ffff00">You Strike Me With Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Saint Or Evil</font> gets the album off to a heavy rocking start. Riffs dominate, but very melodic choruses and some soaring vocals make them very memorable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All I Need</font> is a more keyboard friendly AOR number, with a more laid back commercial feel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mistreated Heart</font> makes for a great blend of the two styles so far – a big groove and solid hard rock riffs, but lots of keyboards and a big AOR chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mason (The Miracle Boy)</font> retains the hard rock heaviness, but is another very accessible melodic rocker with another strong chorus and some serious guitar work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Walk On The Rainbow</font> walks that heavier path as the opening songs of the album did, while <font color="#ffff00">Only One Reason</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Call My Name</font> feature great choruses and a certain commercial flair. <i>Reason</i> features a ton of keyboards surrounded by some big riffs while <i>Name</i> is all riffs!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wonderland</font> closes the album with one of the heaviest and hardest hitting tracks of the album, with a double kick drum rhythm pounding furiously along with some swirling keyboards. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A very solid debut and a very enjoyable slice of European melodic hard rock, with enough memorable songs to bring the listener back for more. Best part I think is the fact the album has that big band sound, yet there are only 2 guys responsible. Terrific performances all-round and an album definitely worth checking out for fans of straight head guitar driven hard rock. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Reincarnation</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Grundström:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jan Åkesson:</b> All Instruments</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Reincarnation (Intro)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Strike Me With Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Saint Or Evil<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Need <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mistreated Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mason (The Miracle Boy) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk On The Rainbow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only One Reason <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Call My Name<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wonderland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tsunami (Outro)<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a4642b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Dragon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sunsine To Rain</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Liberation Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BLUE090.2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/dragon-sunshinetorain.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Todd Hunter & Brent Clark</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 69.53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.dragononline.com.au" target="new">Dragon</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b> --%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I tried, I really did try. I love <b>Dragon</b> with a passion. I grew up listening to them and they deservedly remain Australian rock icons. It was with deep sadness that their fans saw the demise of the band when lead vocalist <b>Marc Hunter</b> died on cancer in the late 90s.<br /> I was very surprised to see the <b>Dragon</b> name resurface. All the original band are gone aside from Marc's brother Todd. Now he has decided to get back to what he loves and that's great. Too much talent to waste doing nothing.<br /> Todd's back playing the <b>Dragon</b> classics to re-launch the band, delivered here in this unplugged full band setting, featuring new singer <b>Mark Williams</b> – the fellow New Zealander who is best known for his hit single <font color="#ffff00">Show No Mercy</font> and his vocal coaching on <b>Australian Idol</b>.<br /> The songs here are all genuine classics….I love every one of them. But hard as I try, I can't get into this album.<br /> The biggest hurdle for any act to overcome is the replacing of a singer and in <b>Dragon's</b> case, the singer was not only the backbone and heartbeat of the band, it was his unique voice that made these songs the classics they are.<br /> Without him it is obviously not going to be the same and no one would expect it to be. But I don't like William's voice here. He's a soulful cat, no doubt and has a fine voice in itself, but for these songs it goes nowhere and simply acts as a barrier to enjoyment. I don't like what he has done with the songs and I had a hard time getting through the album at all.<br /> Case in point the beautiful <font color="#ffff00">Age Of Reason</font> (originally written by the band but covered by <b>John Farnham</b>). This track is the one song to feature an archive recording of <b>Marc Hunter</b>. Bloody hell, it sounds utterly brilliant – powerful and emotional. The inclusion of this track is a double edge sword for the band. It is the best song of the album, yet it highlights just what is missing from the rest of the vocals. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The unplugged setting suits these songs and the sound quality is perfectly fine. But it's all about the vocals for me. Williams just doesn't have the fire, the passion or the powerful tone of <b>Marc Hunter</b> and I can't get past it. Roll out the originals instead and indulge in some of the finest Australian melodic rock ever. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Universal Radio<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scented Gardens For The Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunsine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Running Free<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> O Zambezi<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Power Play<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Body And The Beat<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreams Of Ordinary Men<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bondi Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Incarnations<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunshine To Rain</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Williams:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bruce Reid:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pete Drummond:</b> Drums, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Todd Hunter:</b> Bass, Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dragon</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marc Williams</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunshine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Speak No Evil<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> April Sun In Cuba<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Are You Old Enough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Body & The Beat<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wilder World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreams Of Ordinary Men<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get That Jive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Age Of Reason <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Promises<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Young Years<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Celebrate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rain<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c72723" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Hydrogyn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bombshell</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">DA Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/hydrogyn-bombshell.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Wagener</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.darecordsonline.com" target="new">DA Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The much hyped <b>Hydrogyn</b> have been making waves for some time now, their debut album <font color="#00ffff">Bombshell</font> recorded and produced by the great <b>Michael Wagener</b>.<br /> Lead by the saucy <b>Julie</b>, this American hard rock outfit has a classic hard rock sound. I'm hesitant to make comparisons to anyone, but the sound is traditional American melodic hard rock with a slight 80s feel, but a contemporary up to date production thanks to Wagener.<br /> I guess fans of Wagener's past work with <b>Skid Row</b> and <b>Dokken</b> and those that like female lead vocals will find definite appeal here.<br /> Musically the album is mostly uptempo and guitar driven in your face stuff, with <font color="#ffff00">Vesper's Song</font> kicking things into high gear from the outset.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blind</font> has a certain intensity to it; <font color="#ffff00">Look Away SP</font> is more aggressive and contemporary; <font color="#ffff00">Love Spoke</font> is very commercial with a great pop hook; the straight forward <b>AC/DC</b> cover <font color="#ffff00">Back In Black</font> has since been replaced with a <b>Skid Row</b> cover; <font color="#ffff00">Whisper</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Come Back To Me</font> are the album's ballads and make for a nice change in tempo.<br /> One concern for me is that the band is using Julie's femininity to promote the band as a whole. She is only part of the very tight package that makes this album work. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Still, a solid and very enjoyable record here – traditional American hard rock with a strong female lead vocal and some powerful guitars. For those that like it straight ahead, with no frills, but a solid wall of sound, this is an album worth investigating. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Bombshell</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Julie:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Westlake, Jeff Boggs:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jerry Lawson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dave Moody:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dokken</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Skid Row</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Female fronted hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Vesper's Song <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look Away SP <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breaking Me Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I've Been Waiting<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Confession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Spoke <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back In Black (or 18 And Life)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Sand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Whisper <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Circle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Book Of Names<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Come Back To Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mutilated Mind<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#bf1e1e" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Violent Divine</b> <font color="#ffffff">Violent Divine</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Chavis Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">CD0010 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/violentdivine.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Violent Divine</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.chavisrecords.net" target="new">Chavis Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I think the first thing I noticed about this album was the big guitar sound and just how crisp and clear it is.<br /> The guys have a nice little sound here, mixing old school American hard rock (<b>Motley Crue, Guns N Roses, Ratt</b>) with more updated contemporary influences (<b>Nickleback, Foo Fighters, Shinedown</b>).<br /> The vocals of <b>Michael Ahlstrom</b> have that modern rock drawl, yet the driving rhythm section is more in line with what you might hear on <b>Motley Crue</b>. The riffs come thick and fast and the songs are really quite accessible.<br /> The guys have great energy here and credit to the guys for capturing a raw, live feel in the studio and retaining a high quality production sound. <font color="#ffff00">The Morning Show</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Levitate</font> both have the swagger and modern rock credibility to be heard on radio just about anywhere, plus have cool choruses to draw in the listener.<br /> This stuff is far better than any <b>Nickleback, Creed</b> or even <b>Jet</b> perhaps.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let's Go</font> has a punky rhythm <b>LA Guns</b> might deliver and <font color="#ffff00">Ghost In The Machine</font> rocks hard. I think the quality drops a way a little on the last few tracks – at least as far as the chorus and melodies go. The tracks themselves still rock. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> One for fans of old school American hard rock with a touch of sleaze, but also a strong modern influence. Very commercial in relation to what is on modern rock radio today, but this still has one foot planted firmly in the past, making it quite a crossover release. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Violent Divine</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Ahlstrom:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael"Q"Qvist:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gustav "Gus"Liljenstron:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Klaus Gauffin:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Motley Crue</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nickleback</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern American hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Let's Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Revolution<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Morning Show <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Levitate <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Enslaved<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rush You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Apocalypse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ghost In The Machine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Malfunction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Misery<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down The Line<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f00000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Poodles</b> <font color="#ffffff">Metal Will Stand Tall</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Lionheart</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LHICD0035 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/thepoodles-metalwillstandtall.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Johan Lyander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42.55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/se.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.lionheart-int.com" target="new">Lionheart</a> <a href="http://www.poodles.se" target="new">The Poodles</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There is a real renaissance happening in Europe, with some young guns doing great business actually playing traditional melodic hard rock. What a concept!<br /> The likes of <b>Wig Wam, Brother Firtetribe</b> and <b>The Poodles</b> are uniting old and new fans alike and collectively are kicking America's ass.<br /> <b>The Poodles</b> are 4 of Sweden's best session guys (members of <b>Talisman, Lions Share, Zan Clan, Dalton</b>), who first started playing together as a cover band to huge audiences. Best known to readers to this site will be guitarist <b>Pontus Norgen</b> who is famous for his work in <b>Humanimal</b> and <b>Great King Rat</b> among other things, and incidentally is also <b>Europe's</b> live sound guy.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Metal Will Stand Tall</font> is an apt title. Along with the two aforementioned artists, this album sees the guys deliver the best style and attitude of the classic era of commercial hard rock mixed with an updated and gigantic production sound.<br /> There is no reason why any fan of the old school glory days shouldn't like all three albums as all three are equally brilliant.<br /> Where <b>The Poodles</b> are a little different from <b>Wig Wam</b> and perhaps even <b>The Darkness</b> is their approach to the music.<br /> <b>The Poodles</b> are a little darker, a little more serious and a little heavier than <b>Wig Wam</b> and more guitar orientated than <b>Brother Firetribe</b>.<br /> A few tracks stand out first time around, but a dozen listens in proves there are no fillers present at all. This is a pretty varied album and the change in vibe between tracks takes a little getting used to.<br /> At first glance, you would perhaps deduct that the album is not as consistent or cohesive as the awesome <b>Wig Wam</b> album, but after living with this for a few weeks I'm inclined to think it is every bit as good.<br /> I generally prefer things a little darker and moodier and while there are a couple of great feel-good party rockers here (<font color="#ffff00">Metal Will Stand Tall, Number One</font>), the overall vibe is more serious and tracks like <font color="#ffff00">Echoes From The Past, Night Of Passion</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Shadows</font> all rock hard and feature very memorable choruses, but also have a serious edge to them.<br /> The band has their own way of doing things. Take the intense moody rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Song For You</font>. It features the same dark groove apparent throughout the album, but in a twist features guest vocals from <b>Jonas Samuelsson-Nerbe</b>, who I guess is the Swedish answer to Pavarotti!<br /> The uptempo and anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Lie To Me</font> has a strong contemporary edge and <font color="#ffff00">Rockstar</font> is a brilliant melodic pop rocker with a slow beat and quirky melody. Even the cover of <b>Ultravox's</b> 80s new wave pop hit <font color="#ffff00">Dancing With Tears In My Eyes</font> has a darker, more menacing twist.<br /> The big power ballad of the album closes things out. <font color="#ffff00">Crying</font> is a radio hit in waiting and complete with orchestral parts ensures the album ends on the highest of highs.<br /> I love the crunchy guitar sound, I love the very melodic but powerful lead vocals and i love the pounding rhythm section. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> In a word - essential. For all those that crave fresh talent, but with the attitude, sound and energy of the classic era of melodic hard rock - these guys are for you. I would recommend this to all fans of the genre, be it American or European or elsewhere. The guys have major crossover appeal and the huge wall of sound featured here, mixed with some classic rockers makes for a truly joyous record. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Metal Will Stand Tall</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jakob Samuel:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pontus Norgren:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian Lunqvist:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pontus Edberg:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Wig Wam</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Classic Melodic Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brother Firetribe</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Echoes From The Past <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Metal Will Stand Tall <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Of Passion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Song For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadows <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lie To Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rockstar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancing With Tears In My Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Give Up On Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Number One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingdom Of Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crying <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#9f5000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>John Waite</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Downtown - Journey Of A Heart</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD293 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/johnwaite-downtown.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John Waite, Scott Bagget, Linda Blum Huntington</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51.36</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> July 7</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>66%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">As most should know, <b>John Waite</b> is one of my all time favourite singers and songwriters. His music means more to me than most artists and I remain passionate about his best work.<br /> However, I am at a point where I am losing my patience with him as an artist.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Journey Of A Heart</font> is an album of re-recorded Waite "highlights" and for the second time in a row, fans are served up an album that includes a meager 2 new tracks.<br /> But that is not my only frustration. For the second album in a row, another new version of the classic, but over cooked <font color="#ffff00">Missing You</font> is included. John has such a rich catalogue of inspiring rockers and heartfelt ballads, but it seems his legacy is being tied to this one track.<br /> And for the second album in a row, one of the two new tracks is a <b>Bob Dylan</b> cover (John's third Dylan cover overall).<br /> It has now been 5 years since the last all-new studio release <font color="#00ffff">Figure In A Landscape</font>, itself not a classic, but at least it was all new music. Long time fans deserve something more fulfilling than this.<br /> I honestly don't know who is going to buy this album. I suspect it's only real appeal will be among casual fans in Europe that have not had the desire or the ability to purchase last year's self-released <font color="#00ffff">The Hard Way</font> record (which featured several remixes of the <font color="#00ffff">Figure In A Landscape</font> album, 2 new tracks and a new acoustic version of <font color="#ffff00">Missing You</font>), or the hard to find duo of <font color="#00ffff">Temple Bar</font> (bankrupt label) and the original release of <font color="#00ffff">Figure In A Landscape</font> (bankrupt label).<br /> The bulk of the material for this release comes from those 3 albums, plus a couple of classic <b>Babys</b> tunes (<font color="#ffff00">Isn't It Time</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Headfirst</font>) and <b>Bad English's</b> <font color="#ffff00">When I See You Smile</font>.<br /> Die hard fans have all but 2 of these songs already, so in their case, they will be looking towards the substance of these new versions to see what spin John has put on them.<br /> That unfortunately unfolds another problem. As the title suggests this is a collection of John's more laid back songs, more ballad friendly and peppered only with a couple of rockers – the two <b>Babys</b> tunes to be precise and the pop/rock of the opening track <font color="#ffff00">The Hard Way</font> and the mid-album <font color="#ffff00">Keys To Your Heart</font>.<br /> The rest are all laid back ballads. On top of that is the stronger than usual country influence over the music.<br /> You'll hear slide guitar and a country twang on several tracks, such as <font color="#ffff00">In Dreams, Downtown</font> and the all-acoustic <font color="#ffff00">When I See You Smile</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Missing You</font> in this instance is a duet with country crooner <b>Alison Krausse</b> and is all but a bonafide country ballad.<br /> For long time die-hards fans like myself, there isn't much here that screams essential.<br /> There isn't enough difference between the originals and what's included here - perhaps these are a little more organic and live to tape. The more uptempo conclusion to the classic <font color="#ffff00">Downtown</font> is an interesting twist, but aside from that, it is all very straightforward.<br /> Although I don't care for the Dylan cover <font color="#ffff00">Highway 61</font> it is genuinely authentic and Waite's vocal is one of passion and self belief. You can hear that he loves the song and the style of vocal. But I don't see the fans adopting Waite's enthusiasm for the track or the artist.<br /> There remains one high point for me within this album. The other new track is an all new original from the writing partnership that brought you <font color="#ffff00">Downtown</font> (perhaps John's best song ever?) and New York City Girl (another classic).<br /> Yes, <b>Glen Burtnik</b> returns with another song and yet another classic from his work with John. <font color="#ffff00">St. Patrick's Day</font> has all the passion and beauty of <font color="#ffff00">Downtown</font> and is without doubt a stunning track that I believe all Waite fans will adore.<br /> Why don't these two guys just make a record together already??<br /> <b>John Waite</b> doesn't have to be the rocker for me to be satisfied. I just have to hear that voice of conviction and that haunting emotion that was so evident on <font color="#00ffff">Temple Bar</font> and on parts of <font color="#00ffff">When You Were Mine</font>. This album doesn't have any of that passion.<br /> I mentioned breifly the choice of material. John has such a vast catalogue of unreleased material and I am totally confused as to why none of it has been tapped into. There is at least 15 tracks that are of the same style and feel as <font color="#00ffff">Temple Bar</font> - a definite fan favourite. If John was not keen on writing new material for an album, why not tap into those treasures rather than dish up this all too familiar set of songs? </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I don't hear or feel John's true essence on this record. Apart from the Dylan cover and <font color="#ffff00">St Patrick's Day</font>, I think he is going through the motions. He sounds bored and personally I will stick with the original versions of all of these tracks. I don't think any of these are better than they once were.<br /> Additionally - if you are going to do a career retrospective, go the distance and fill up the CD. There's another 20 minute of spare time that could have been utilized here. There are only 11 tracks here, as a 35 second instrumental should never be classed as a song. 11 relatively laid back tracks just seems somewhat lazy.<br /> As for the score - well, sound quality isn't in question; the songs themselves are all classics aren't they - but I think the song selection as such is very safe and there is no way I can give the overall album any better than I have, and I think most long time fans will agree. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Ignition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Brakes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mask Of Smiles<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rovers Return<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Temple Bar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Backwards - Best Of<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When You Were Mine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Figure In A Landscape<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Hard Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Downtown: Journey Of A Heart</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Various </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Waite</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Hard Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Venus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Missing You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keys To Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New York City Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Highway 61<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Isn't It Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> St. Patrick's Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headfirst<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Downtown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When I See You Smile<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ebc44b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Shooting Star</b> <font color="#ffffff">Circles</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD291 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/shootingstar-circles.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Van McLain</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.03</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> July 7</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>79%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">US melodic rockers <b>Shooting Star</b> return after way too long with a new studio album – minus one lead singer - but with an equally good one stepping into his shoes.<br /> <b>Gary West</b> and <b>Keith Mitchell</b> have both held the mike for the band, but in deciding to reform again now, the guys had to make an important choice. Who would best represent the new material and help the band move forward?<br /> In my mind they could not have picked anyone better than AOR favourite <b>Kevin Chalfant (The Storm / Two Fires)</b>. Kevin has one of those instantly likable voices and is perfectly suited to the melodic friendly material featured on this album. If anything, he takes the material to a new level and into a more AOR friendly area.<br /> There is a natural earthy timbre to this album and the songs themselves are marvelous. The 10 tracks featured are thoroughly enjoyable and although varied, are held together by some strong performances by Kevin and guitarist <b>Van McLain</b> and some fine choruses. I don't hear any fillers in play at all.<br /> The songs move from guitar driven Midwestern melodic rock (<font color="#ffff00">Runaway, Trouble In Paradise, Temptation</font>) to straight AOR (<font color="#ffff00">Without Love, George's Song, What Love Is</font>) via a little southern rock n roll (<font color="#ffff00">Everybody's Crazy</font>), sometimes reflecting an 80s vibe and at other times a more timeless classic rock feel (<font color="#ffff00">Borrowed Time, I'm A Survivor</font> – which features some shredding guitar work).<br /> The only problem with this album is the production quality. It does these songs and the guys performing them, no favors whatsoever.<br /> The whole album sounds very hollow and the mix is not at all consistent, varying from track to track. While the quality of the lead vocals is not in question, the tone sometimes is. At times they have a tendency to sound as if they were recorded in a cupboard and the guitar sound is also quite muddy.<br /> Worst offender though is the truly pedestrian drum sound. It kills the impact of the rhythm section completely and therefore knocks some of the power out of these songs. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Thankfully the song quality is strong enough that you can forgive the ordinary production. <b>Kevin Chalfant's</b> pitch perfect tone and <b>Van McLain's</b> wailing guitars drive this record and the songs written are I think about as good as it gets for <b>Shooting Star</b> fans.<br /> It's great to hear Kevin back in the melodic rock business and I'm hoping his partnership with the band continues for a long time to come. But next time, perhaps a bigger recording budget and name producer might achieve a better overall result. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Shooting Star<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hang On For Your Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> III Wishes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silent Scream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Not Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leap Of Faith<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Circles</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Chalfant:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Van McLain:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Thomas:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ron Verlin:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Laffoon:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shane Michaels:</b> Violin</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shooting Star</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Chalfant</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Runaway <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Without Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Trouble In Paradise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> George's Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Borrowed Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everybody's Crazy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Temptation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm A Survivor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We're Not Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Love Is <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Stephen Pearcy</b> <font color="#ffffff">Stripped</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sidewinder Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">60024-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/stephenpearcy-stripped.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Kenny Lewis</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58.03</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.sidewinder-music.com" target="new">Sidewinder Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I have been pretty critical of the last couple of Pearcy releases. His chosen solo direction is definitely not to my musical taste and I questioned how many old fans of Pearcy's would really be into his current fare.<br /> No such problems with this album. What better way to connect with the past than actually cover the past in an intimate live setting.<br /> Stephen has been involved with the <b>VH1 Stripped</b> series from the outset and continues that collaboration with this live unplugged album, recorded in March on LA's Sunset Strip.<br /> Pearcy and band (including the always cool <b>Chuck Wright</b> on bass and <b>Scott Coogan</b> on drums) rip through 12 <b>Ratt</b> classics including <font color="#ffff00">Slip Of The Lip, Way Cool Jr, Lovin' You's A Dirty Job</font> and of course, the essential <font color="#ffff00">Round & Round</font>.<br /> What makes the CD ever more interesting and more personable is Pearcy's commentary between tracks and interaction with the audience. His rock drawl and couldn't care less kinda attitude suits the delivery of the songs and the whole rock n roll persona Pearcy is known for. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Put basically, this is an engaging CD and a good raw, live recording of a band that pretty much got everything right on the night. I'm not a huge Ratt fan, but I enjoyed this release for what it is and restored some of my faith in Pearcy as a classy rock performer. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Social Intercourse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fueler<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stripped</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stephen Pearcy:</b> Vocals, Acoustic Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Ferentinos, Frank Wilsey:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott Coogan:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chuck Wright:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott Breadman:</b> Percussion</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ratt /Stephen Pearcy</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Metal Mania Stripped</b></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Slip Of The Lip<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back For More<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Way Cool Jr.<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovin' You's A Dirty Job<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lay It Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mother Blues<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Think You're Tough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wanted Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring It On Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oh Well<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Round & Round<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cf491d" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Heed</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Call</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00021 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/heed-thecall.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tobias Lindell</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 61.20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.net" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">More bloody Swede's! What, does every band in that country have a recording deal? Per capita, I seriously know of no other country with so many great bands of various genre's all doing so well.<br /> Heed are a little different from the traditional fare featured here. But still well worth checking out if the style fits the taste. Heed play a blend of modern rock and Scandi influenced melodic metal.<br /> Singer Daniel Heiman has a very likable voice and adds power, finesse and melody to these bone crunching modern hard rockers.<br /> Singer Heiman and guitarist Fredrik Olsson decided to leave their former band Lost Horizon to form Heed and one can only hope the guys go on to gain as much momentum as Lost Horizon had in Europe.<br /> They have carried over much of that band's sound, but perhaps making it a little more contemporary again.<br /> One cannot argue with the song quality either. I Am Alive gets the album off to a flyer with some in your face guitars and menacing vocals; Last Drop of Blood remains dark and intense, but the vocals are more melodic; Salvation features some astounding powerhouse vocals and The Other Side pegs it back a little for a more melodic moment.<br /> The album closes with the acoustic ballad Nothing. A Nice showcase for Daniel's voice, but don't bother sitting thru 10 minutes of silence for 2 minutes of pure metal aggression that is hidden away at the end of the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A very good album for those whose taste's it fits. Expertcly recorded and mixed, it sounds big and is a very in your face record. It has a definite modern rock twist, woven into some over the top European melodic metal. Worth checking out for those curious and of course, a must have for Lost Horizon fans. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Call</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Heiman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fredrik Olsson:</b> Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Karlsson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jörgen Olsson:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lost Horizon</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern Melodic Metal</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Heed Hades<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am Alive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Drop Of Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ashes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Enemy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Salvation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears Of Prodigy (Fallen Angel)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Other Side<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hypnosis<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Moments<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Permanent End Celebration<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#804000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Vengeance</b> <font color="#ffffff">Back In The Ring</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-166 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/vengeance-backinthering.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Voss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49.07</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">So while fans wait for a new <b>AC/DC</b> album, they can sit back and soak up some good old-fashioned guitar driven accadacca style rock n roll courtesy of Dutch legends <b>Vengeance</b>.<br /> Armed with a crystal clear production (thanks to Mr. Everywhere, <b>Michael Voss</b>), a thumping rhythm section, in your face guitar riffs and a perfectly raspy <b>Bon Scott</b> style lead vocal, <b>Vengeance</b> re-appear after a long hiatus to deliver one of the more enjoyable straight ahead hard rocking records of the year.<br /> Absolutely no frills here – just 11 in your face rockers - guitars everywhere and just a few keyboard parts – all delivered with more energy and enthusiasm than I anticipated.<br /> What is most surprising is the all-star team on board to help create the album.<br /> The album is made up of songs co-written by <b>Michael Voss</b> with frontman <b>Leon Goewie</b>, plus other contributions from <b>Paul Sabu</b> and <b>Mat Sinner</b>.<br /> The Sabu contributions are of the more melodic of the album (the moody <font color="#ffff00">Captain Moonlight</font> and the keyboard dominated <font color="#ffff00">Now And Then</font>), while the rest of the album just rocks!<br /> From the outset, this is all old school rock n roll – <font color="#ffff00">Back In The Ring, Holy Water, Bad Attitude</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Cowboy Style</font> are all great fun. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Nothing to complain about here at all so long as the style suits the listeners need. Good old fashioned good fun rock n roll with a strong emphasis on the traditional <b>AC/DC</b> style. Those contributing to the album all have great track records and do not let the side down here. For those that like it loud and simple…and in your face! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Vengeance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Have Ways To Make You Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take It Or Leave It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Arabia<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Last Teardrops 1984-1992<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Last Of The Fallen Heroes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back From Flight 19<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back In The Ring</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Leon Goewie:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter "Slash" Bourbon:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hans In'T Zandt:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barend Courbois:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> + Guests</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vengeance</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>AC/DC</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Krokus</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Back In The Ring <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Mercy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mind Over Matter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Captain Moonlight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Holy Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Attitude <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Had Enough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now And Then<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cowboy Song <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rip It Off<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evelyn<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Deacon Street</b> <font color="#ffffff">II</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-164 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/deaconstreet-2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tommy Denander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55.13</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> <a href="http://www.tommy-denander.com" target="new">Tommy Denander</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">As we all know, guitar great <b>Tommy Denander</b> is one busy little bugger, with his hand in about 138 different pies.<br /> Deacon Street is the excuse to gather material into one place from many of those projects. The first release gathered a round of unreleased songs that were not suitable for the individual projects they were recorded for.<br /> Same goes with this second edition. Songs written for projects still needing a home have found one here.<br /> So in line with the many great people Tommy works with, this album is filled with great names such as <b>Jeff Watson (Night Ranger), Steve Morse (Kansas, Deep Purple), Reb Beach (Winger, Dokken), Bruce Gaitsch (Richard Marx, Madonna, Peter Cetera), Bill Leverty (Fire-house), Daniel Flores (Sha-Boom, Faro, Philip Bardowell, Speedy Gonazales), Vinny Heter (Radioactive), Tony Franklin (Blue Murder)</b> and more.<br /> Featured lead vocalists should all be familiar to followers of Denander's work. They are <b>Thomas Vikström (Talk Of The Town), Andreas Novak, Johan Fahlberg (Jaded Heart), Chris Antblad (Spin Gallery), Geir Ronning, Peter Sundell</b> and <b>Stan Bush</b>.<br /> This is pretty easy to review – if you are a Denander fan and have all the <b>Radioactive, Sayit, Talk Of The Town</b> and <b>Rainmaker</b> releases – then why are you even reading this review? Go get it.<br /> The quality of the songs and the sound quality is not in question – both sound great and I cannot see any Denander fan being disappointed.<br /> There are some great AOR tunes such as the almost perfect opener <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful Chardaine</font> (<b>Peter Sundell</b> of Grand Illusion) and also <font color="#ffff00">Now We Cry For You</font> (<b>Stand Bush</b>), plus a couple of superb Westcoast ballads like <font color="#ffff00">I Give This Promise</font> (<b>Chris Antblad</b>).<br /> The only downside of the album for me – and it's not an insignificant issue – is that the various singers/players and the fact the songs are from different sessions and different studios, creates an album with an ever-changing vibe.<br /> Oh, and I could have gone without the cover of <font color="#ffff00">Action</font> by <b>The Sweet</b>. A rather overdone track, but the cover of <b>Paul Stanley's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Easy As It Seems</font> is more enjoyable and very authentic. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> While the Denander influence is constant, I wouldn't say that this album flows like a regular release and due to the set-up, any cohesiveness is thrown out the window. But, as a collection of individual songs, it has definite appeal. If you are not a convert to Denander, then I don't think this would be the place to start. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Deacon Street<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> II</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Various - See Review </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful Chardaine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LeAnn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Love Is On The Line<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Give This Promise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now We Cry For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Second Comings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> (Kill us) On Another Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Promise Of Forever<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Misery <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Action<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Easy As It Seems<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Them Changes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jason<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ee4811" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Street Talk</b> <font color="#ffffff">V</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-167 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/streettalk-v.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Fredrik Bergh</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47.07</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> June 23</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Westcoast</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>96%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Street Talk</b> was the last album I played in the office Friday afternoon and now Monday morning it is still buzzing around in my head.<br /> Leaving the legacy of this band where it was would have been a great waste of talent, but band founder <b>Fredrik Bergh</b> is not one to skip on quality and did not think he could raise the budget required to do a new album justice.<br /> <b>MTM Music</b> wisely saw the value of the <b>Street Talk</b> name and came to the party and 18 months later here we have the new album.<br /> To cut right to the chase, this is the best <b>Street Talk</b> album to date. While none of the 5 albums vary greatly from the straight AOR/smooth Westcoast path, this album still stands out for a couple of important reasons.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">V</font> is an album which I think is more consistent than any previous <b>Street Talk</b> release. While the musical path is no different, the extra time taken writing and recording the album means that the quality of the songs featured is better than ever. There is not a single filler on this album and I'm not sure I could say that of past releases.<br /> Upon first inspection I think the listener will spotlight two particular tracks as the album's standouts. That's what I did, but second listen in there were now 4 highlights. Then 6 and now I have different favourites depending on my mood.<br /> The other key to the consistency of this album is the wonderful, classy and faultless vocals of <b>Goran Edman</b>. He puts in possibly the best – if not the smoothest – vocal performance of his career on this record and is a joy to listen to.<br /> And even better, Fredrik drops his predisposition to use at least one other vocalist per album, so Goran gets run of the shop here and that helps this album even further.<br /> I often find the inclusion of different vocalists counter productive to the flow and consistency of an album, so I'm thrilled that Goran is the only man featured here.<br /> More credit also to Bergh for an impeccable overall sound. While all the <b>Street Talk</b> albums have sounded very good, this one sounds truly great. It is layers thick with keyboards and subtle guitar parts, not to mention the perfectly mixed lead vocals and layered harmonies. What makes the album great is the thumping rhythm section, which really drives this record – not only through the uptempo numbers but also during the soft ballads.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> It is impossible to isolate the best tracks, which is certainly a compliment to the quality of the album. So one must talk about them all…<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Responsible</font> is about as up-tempo as it gets for Street Talk and so it is that this feel good rocker kicks off the album. Gloriously bathed in melodic vocals and pepped up by a simple guitar riff, the song just glides, with the more pressing chorus lifting the tempo further. One of the best AOR tracks of 2006 without doubt.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Don't Believe</font> is somewhat moodier and less obvious, but just as melodic and equally glorious once you get to know it. Another cracking AOR classic that is the precursor to yet another gem in <font color="#ffff00">If I Could</font>. This, along with Responsible is the two tracks I picked out as brilliant from the first listen. The verse grabs your attention, but then the chorus blows you away. Another 2006 classic.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">At The End Of The Day</font> is one of the band's best and smoothest ballads to date and another vocal jewel for the resume of Edman.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Family Business</font> matches the tempo of the opening number and ensures this album is just that little bit pacier than previous albums. Goran again soars on the great chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Just A Little Appetizer</font> is extremely catchy, but creeps up on you…it's one you'll be humming without knowing it hours later.<br /> The mid-tempo Westcoast pop of <font color="#ffff00">Something's Gotta Give</font> is yet another smooth-as-a-baby's-bum track with yet another strong chorus.<br /> Slow ballad time again with <font color="#ffff00">Groundhog Day</font> – the chorus takes awhile to arrive but won't be forgotten when it does. Back to a quick fire tempo with the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Sniper</font>, which as the title suggests will capture you in its sight and knock you out.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Oh Maddy</font> reminds me of <b>Journey</b> on their Raised On Radio smoothest and is one of my favourite album tracks. Fabulously smooth and eloquently delivered. Closing out the album is the feel good pop rocker <font color="#ffff00">Brother Sun And Sister Moon</font>, with a uptempo beat and a warm feel. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> One of the highlights of the year to date without doubt. Certainly the best pure AOR and Westcoast release of the year and one which will be hard to beat. This is a shining example of how great AOR can and should be delivered to the eager fans. Smooth as hell and a great credit to Fredrik and Goran. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Collaboration<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Transition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Restoration<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Destination<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> V</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Göran Edman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fredrik Bergh:</b> Keyboards & Piano<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sven Larsson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian Johansson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Björn Lodmark:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Quality AOR</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Street Talk</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Goran Edman</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Responsible <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Believe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If I Could <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> At The End Of The Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Family Business <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just A Little Appetizer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Something's Gotta Give <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Groundhog Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sniper<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oh Maddy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Brother Sun And Sister Moon<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06917c" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cloven Hoof</b> <font color="#ffffff">Eye Of The Sun</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM133 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/clovenhoof-eyeofthesun.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tom Galley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> June 23</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Perhaps one of the forgotten bands of the massively influential NWOBHM movement of the last 70s and early 80s, <b>Cloven Hoof</b> seemingly did everything right as far as writing good songs and getting out and touring, yet they would not be one of the lucky ones.<br /> The band never had a stable line-up and all that remains today is one original member – bassist <b>Lee Payne</b> – who has put together a new line-up for this new studio album.<br /> To be honest, I am not sure of the motivation behind this new record and I had no expectation at all going into it.<br /> Payne has joined with Phenomena creator and acclaimed producer <b>Tom Galley</b> to record the new album.<br /> Having no expectations can be a good thing, as the band does not have to live up to any preconceived notion. I must say that I was pleasantly surprised and have come to like this album a lot.<br /> Like no time has passed at all, the line-up assembled grasps the original concept of the Hoof's NWOBHM sound as if it was still 1983. Things have been updated a little of course, but essentially, this is a classic style British melodic metal record that I think will bring back some great memories for fans of the era and genre.<br /> New vocalist <b>Matt Moreton</b> has a voice in the higher register, but a decent growl also and definitely does the material here justice.<br /> After a couple of warm up tracks, I think the album falls into a very consistent groove from track 3 and for whatever reason, it think the sound quality also picks up here. The crunching hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Eye Of The Zombie</font> would do most metal bands proud.<br /> Highlights for me would be the more melodic and harmony backed <font color="#ffff00">Cyberworld</font>; the classic British hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Kiss Of Evil</font>, which features a great lead vocal; the metal angst of <font color="#ffff00">Absolute Power</font> and the power groove of <font color="#ffff00">King For A Day</font>.<br /> The album is closed out in the same way it opened, ok but as strong as the middle – leaving the best tracks running 3 through 7. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Had this collection of songs been recorded and released by <b>Saxon</b> or <b>Iron Maiden</b>, I have no doubt that a lot more publicity would be given to the album. If you are into the old-school British hard rock sound, this has been well recorded and very well produced and contains some memorable songs. Just about all you could ask for. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Cloven Hoof<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dominator<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Sultans Ramson<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye of The Sun</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Moreton:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Shortland:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Orlin Radinsky:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Payne:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>NWOBHM</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Inquisitor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye Of The Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cyberworld <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kiss Of Evil <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye Of The Zombie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Absolute Power <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Whore Of Babylon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Golgotha<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King For A Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angels In Hell<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#408080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Surveillance</b> <font color="#ffffff">Angelstation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM132 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/surveillance-angelstation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Mark Stuart</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> June 23</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>55%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Although it took a few good listens, I like what is on offer here – musically speaking. It has that straight forward British melodic hard rock feel, with some good songs and strong melodies to appreciate.<br /> I also like the lead vocals of <b>Lee Small</b>. He doesn't hide the fact the <b>Glenn Hughes</b> is a clear and obvious influence over his style, and at times I hear some classic Hughes featured – both vocally and with the musical direction.<br /> The songs themselves have a lot to offer. Traditional British rock for the most part, but some nice twists and a few original passages of music.<br /> What I don't like is the production. This album sounds awfully hollow – especially with the lead vocal compared to the rhythm section - and the mix is really quite harsh on the ears.<br /> The drum sound is lacking any major influence over the album and the guitars sound very muddy. These aspects take away from a lot of the possible enjoyment.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In Motion</font> is a solid and catchy rocker to kick-start the album, but the mix problem is evident right off the bat.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burning</font> is a more intense and an even heavier rocker, with a little <b>Iommi / Hughes</b> influence.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Reflections, Messiah</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Primitive Soul</font> are three tracks which use a more commercial melodic rock style, but the sound also changes – especially on <font color="#ffff00">Reflections</font> - to a tinny, hollow style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Middleman</font> returns to the more aggressive style of the opening tracks, as does the sound, only highlighting the difference in sound throughout the album. <font color="#ffff00">Truth</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Holy</font> suffer from the production quality badly and cannot be appreciated fully because of this. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is an ok collection of songs, but add in the sound quality and it becomes an album that will struggle for market share in a competitive environment. Lee has an enjoyable voice and I hope to hear more from him, but this album definitely falls short of expectations. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Angelstation</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Small:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Connor Emms:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daz Wooytton:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jon Hayward:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Hodson:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sue McCloskey:</b> Backing Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> In Motion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reflections <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Middleman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Primitive Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Messiah<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mary (Awaken part one)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Holy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Ghost In You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Awaken (Part two)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Truth<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#d7ac2d" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cheap Trick</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rockford</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Big 3</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/cheaptrick-rockford.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Cheap Trick</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.cheaptrick.com" target="new">Cheap Trick</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I know I'm a week or two late with this review, but as the album was only released officially the week before last, I think I can still get away with it.<br /> The one advantage of running a little late is the benefit of reading other opinions and hearing from readers about an album.<br /> While I'm not one to ever change my view based on what others think, it is nice to know that I am on the same wavelength as it appears I am with this release.<br /> From all reports to date, <b>Cheap Trick</b> has turned in their best album in years. Some are saying the very best since the late 70s, but as I am still a great fan of some of those gems from the 80s, so I'll agree to a point and name <font color="#00ffff">Rockford</font> as the band's best album since the brilliant commercial rock of <font color="#00ffff">Lap Of Luxury</font>.<br /> On the band's last couple of studio albums, an attempt has been made to cover all aspects of their diverse career, with an equally diverse set of songs featured.<br /> Perhaps the band was trying too hard to please everyone.<br /> The last album <font color="#00ffff">Special One</font> was especially disappointing, with some weak songs played with little conviction. A lot more time was taken putting this album together and it seems the guys also placed far less pressure on themselves.<br /> When bands can afford to give themselves such creative room, I think the results always speak for themselves. That is very much the case here, as <font color="#00ffff">Rockford</font> not only features the best set of songs from the band in a long long time, it also rocks more than they have in some time!<br /> The guys sound in vintage form and as melodic as ever, as power pop anthems dominate the album, filled with hooks galore.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Rockford</font> features all the essential <b>Cheap Trick</b> ingredients, starting with those needed driving rockers, such as <font color="#ffff00">Welcome To The World, Give It Away</font> and the riff driven <font color="#ffff00">Come On Come On Come On</font>.<br /> Melodic rock anthems appear in the form of <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Stranger</font> and the very <font color="#00ffff">Lap Of Luxury</font>-ish pop/rock of <font color="#ffff00">If It Takes A Lifetime</font> and <font color="#ffff00">This Time You Got It</font>.<br /> Of course, no Trick album would be complete without a tip of the hat to the ultimate power pop band <b>The Beatles</b>. The retro pop ballad <font color="#ffff00">O Claire</font> fulfills that obligation as does the more uptempo pop rocker <font color="#ffff00">Dream The Night Away</font>.<br /> The more laid back and reflective <font color="#ffff00">All Those Years</font> is a pleasant tune that breaks the tempo up a little late in the album.<br /> Outside the box a little is the quirky as hell, but equally catchy rocker <font color="#ffff00">One More</font> and the heavier groove of <font color="#ffff00">Decaf</font>, which closes the album in style. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> To put it simply, <font color="#00ffff">Rockford</font> is everything a <b>Cheap Trick</b> album should be. Filled with bloody catchy tunes, sounding brilliant all the while and mixing those loveable hard rockers with some classic power pop gems. More of this please guys, you are right back on track. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Studio Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Cheap Trick<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Color<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Tonight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Police<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Shook Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One On One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next Position Please<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Standing on the Edge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Doctor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lap Of Luxury<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Busted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Woke Up With A Monster<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cheap Trick<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Special One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> RockFord</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robin Zander:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Nielson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bun E Carlos:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tom Petersson:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Cheap Trick</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Great power pop</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Perfect Stranger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If It Takes A Lifetime <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Come On Come On Come On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> O Claire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Time You Got It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give It Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One More <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Every Night And Every Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream The Night Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Those Years<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Decaf<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a45200" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>House Of Shakira</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At Firefest 2005</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Lion Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/houseofshakira-liveatfirefest.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> House Of Shakira</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 38.40 (Concert)</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.lionmusic.com" target="new">Lion Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Ah, me old favourites….these guys won me over with their completely out of the box debut, which mixed the odd African tribal rhythms with Scandi melodic hard rock, all delivered in an over the top <b>Journey</b> styled AOR frenzy. Amazing mix and the guys have only got better with time.<br /> This is their first ever DVD, recorded at the 2005 Firefest show in the UK. It is also Lion Music's first foray into the new media format and credit to both – this looks great.<br /> The band was fabulous on the day and ran through a set list of fan favourites and cuts from the current album <font color="#00ffff">First Class</font>.<br /> The PA mix on the day left the guys a little perplexed, but all was captured on master tape for this release. Given the opportunity to alter the levels after the fact means that while this is 100% live, it now also sounds 100% brilliant.<br /> Whether the guys are rocking hard (<font color="#ffff00">Uncontrolled, Hey Lord</font>), delivering massive anthems (<font color="#ffff00">In Yours Head, You Are, Method Of Madness, Morning Over Morocco</font>) or playing it a little retro (<font color="#ffff00">Wings</font>), they are always having fun and always delivering the tightest possible performance.<br /> You would expect nothing less from this now very experienced and well oiled melodic rock band.<br /> The vocals for this live show are also something to witness – featuring both the band's original and current lead singers on stage for this special event, plus the fact the rest of the band all sing harmonies makes this all the more memorable and sweet on the ears.<br /> The DVD footage itself is just about all you could ask for. Multiple cameras, clear visuals and for the most part, good attention to detail featuring all the guys individually and collectively. There is some strong close up shots as well as a mix of pull back shots of the whole stage.<br /> The stage set up was pretty simple, but the performances certainly make up for that. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The only downside is the length of the set. The band was on early in the piece so they only had 40 minutes to do their thing (after headlining the pre-show, the night before). Not enough time to feature more classic tunes or to get your fill, but what is included is essential.<br /> As for extras – the DVD includes a nice 6 minute bio piece with brief interviews and all the videos of the band filmed when they were known as <b>The Station</b> (pre-HOS). Essential for fans. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Lint<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Verge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> III<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live+<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> First Class</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Eklund:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Hallstensson, Anders Lundström:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Andersson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Per Schelander:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>House Of Shakira</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Song Remains The Same<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Uncontrolled<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your Head<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hey Lord<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Best Of Times<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wings/Seven Bridges Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Morning Over Morocco<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Are<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Method Of Madness<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pellucid (Part 2)</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a3963d" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Glenn Hughes</b> <font color="#ffffff">Music For The Divine</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD287 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/glennhughes-musicforthedivine.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Glenn Hughes & Chad Smith</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Funk Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.glennhughes.com" target="new">Glenn Hughes</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Glenn Hughes</b> works longer and harder on just about every solo release of the last few years, yet you can set your watch as to when they will appear – on time and as regular as ever. Now that sounds like it is a dig at Glenn – it sure isn't – as true to Glenn's claim, each album of the last few years does sound better than the last and like a little more effort has been put in.<br /> It is just that being a prolific writer and also someone that knows his way around a studio, it doesn't take forever to get a new record done. Brilliant for eagerly waiting fans…<br /> Since moving away from the more straight ahead hard rock that kick-started Glenn's major comeback with such albums as <font color="#00ffff">From Now On</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Addiction</font>, he has slowly evolved from recording albums with set musical themes and has moved into a style zone that instead balances his influences.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Way It Is, R.O.C.K.</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Songs In The Key Of Rock</font> saw Glenn finding his way, but it wasn't until <font color="#00ffff">Soul Mover</font> that he nailed it. The perfect blend of soul, funk, R&B and rock was at last achieved.<br /> If <font color="#00ffff">Soul Mover</font> was the album where Glenn perfected his own solo style - which started off back in the funk zone of <font color="#00ffff">Play Me Out</font> in the 70s - then <font color="#00ffff">Music For The Divine</font> is where he moves it further forward. This is an even better sequel to <i>Soul Mover</i>.<br /> This is a seriously good record, with an intense vibe and some of the best songs of Glenn's solo career to date. But it is far from an instant record. Glenn's records seldom are.<br /> There are a few standouts early in the piece, but 6 or 7 listens in and every track has its own place and its own groove.<br /> I think long time and true fans of Glenn Hughes will really dig this record. Anyone with a particular affection for <font color="#00ffff">Soul Mover</font> will certainly find this a very worthy companion to that record.<br /> Perhaps not all that have loved certain past Glenn Hughes records will love this. I'll always class <font color="#00ffff">From Now On</font> as my all time favourite Hughes record, but I am also realistic that he is unlikely to make a record like that again. Those looking for the hard rock or AOR Glenn should not expect to hear that here. On board with Glenn here is long time guitarist <b>JJ Marsh</b> and back again is the <b>Red Hot Chilli Peppers</b> duo of percussion master <b>Chad Smith</b> and guitarist <b>John Frusciante</b>.<br /> The <b>Chad Smith/Glenn Hughes</b> pairing is a masterful one, the guys compliment each other beautifully and the relationship the two formed on Soul Mover matures here.<br /> Speaking of the music within the album – The <font color="#ffff00">Valiant Denial</font> gets things off to a fairly restrained start. Rather it is the utterly brilliant <font color="#ffff00">Steppin On</font>, with its snappy groove and in your face attitude really getting things rolling.<br /> What I love about the structure of this album is the tempo changes within the songs. <font color="#ffff00">Monkey Man, Black Light</font> and the brilliant <font color="#ffff00">This Is How I Feel</font> all do double-takes within, with chorus melodies well outside where the verse lead you to believe you were heading.<br /> Things turn psychedelic 70s on <font color="#ffff00">This House</font> and reverts a further decade back from that on parts within <font color="#ffff00">Frail</font>.<br /> The album grooves its way through several other tracks, all with their own merits.<br /> The only blip on the radar with this release is the cover of <font color="#ffff00">Nights In White Satin</font>. On it's own it's another great cover by Glenn, but I'm not sure it fits within the scheme of this album. It is the only track recorded outside these sessions and sounds like it.<br /> Closing the album is the quite superb orchestral flavored <font color="#ffff00">The Divine</font>, which sees Glenn at his most seductive vocal best. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> As much as I love hard rock Glenn, I could definitely use another album of this style if it maintains the growing quality we have come to expect from the groove-meister. <font color="#00ffff">Music For The Divine</font> is indeed just that, as long as you define divine as "funk, soul and R&B flavored classic rock." Glenn Hughes is no longer just the voice of rock; he is the soul of it too. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Play Me Out<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Four On The Floor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> From Now On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewsjapan.html">Addiction</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-thewayitis.p3">The Way It Is</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-incenseandpeaches.html">Incense And Peaches</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-rock.p3">R.O.C.K</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-buildingthemachine.p3">Building The Machine</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-songsinthekeyofrock.p3">Songs In The Key Of Rock</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="glennhughes-soulmover.p3">Soul Mover</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Music For The Divine</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glenn Hughes:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>JJ Marsh, John Frusciante:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chad Smith:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Kilian:</b> String Arragements, Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glenn Hughes</b> - Soul Mover</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Valiant Denial<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Steppin' On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monkey Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This House <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Got Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Frail<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nights In White Satin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too High<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is How I Feel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Divine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#05a0d3" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Vertigo</b> <font color="#ffffff">2</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD290 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/vertigo-2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 39.39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Joseph Williams</b> returns to his <b>Vertigo</b> project for an encore performance, with the <b>Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi</b> production machine in tow.<br /> Former <b>Toto</b> vocalist <b>Joseph Williams</b> has a golden set of pipes and AOR fans welcome any release with open arms, as they don't come along too often.<br /> The debut <b>Vertigo</b> release was one of my favourite albums of 2003. Vertigo <font color="#00ffff">2</font> is in many ways, a little brother to that of the debut. Most facets of the original have been reproduced here, which will be pleasing news to those that were looking forward to a follow-up; however it falls short on matching the brilliance of that first record.<br /> This is an album of very enjoyable classic AOR featuring a selection of hand picked songs that are designed to impact with the listener instantly.<br /> This is a chorus driven record – every track has a punchy, instantly recognizable chorus and one song flows to the next in quick fashion.<br /> For that reason, I felt familiar with this album from the outset and I felt like I knew it well after just the second listen. I generally prefer albums to grow on me, but for those looking to get straight to the chorus, this album delivers in spades.<br /> Overall I have to say that it is another very welcomed release from Williams and certainly slots into his catalogue of albums very nicely. It is extremely catchy and the songs seems perfectly suited to his voice.<br /> The opening half of the record feels like a greatest hits record – one great chorus after another – <font color="#ffff00">In The Blink Of An Eye, All For You, Hold Me</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Part Of Me</font> are all similar in tempo and style and all feature a strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hold Me</font> being the stand out of these opening tracks – the subtle chorus breaking into a great chorus makes it an instant winner.<br /> The slightly more laid back <font color="#ffff00">Holy</font>, which appears mid-album, is perhaps my favourite of all – Williams really owns this track.<br /> The big ballad of the album is <font color="#ffff00">Save It All For Me</font>, which I believe will be a fan favourite from the record.<br /> At the same time as I sit back and enjoy the record for what it is, a few nagging doubts linger. Something isn't sitting quite right here.<br /> Perhaps it is the production - I began to grow tied of the <b>V.Zee Grossi</b> sound a year or so back. Too many releases in two short a time span and most of them sound very similar. That same issue is present here – his take on how the overall album and in particular how the guitars sound is not something I love. On top of that - I think the production here is far less polished than the debut and in places it almost feels rushed.<br /> And the songs that comprise <font color="#00ffff">Vertigo 2</font> are all very similar. The pacing and the tempo at which the album flows is pretty slick and before you know it, you are mid-way through the album and then it's over. At 39 minutes, the album could have used another big ballad and another mid-tempo track to round it out.<br /> I love uptempo albums – but a balance must be struck in order to give the record the best and most even flow.<br /> The last nagging doubt is the vocals of Mr. Williams. Perhaps it is the rushed nature of the record which I mentioned earlier, but he sounds a lot rougher than 3 years back and has a much raspier take on this record. At times I felt like he was shouting his way through some of the parts.<br /> I must comment about the lyrical or spiritual connection between the songs on this album. It seems Joseph has chosen songs with a stronger spiritual connection and several contain openly Christian references, none better or more obvious than the closing track <font color="#ffff00">There's A Reason</font>. A truly fine track and once again, a track you can just tell Joseph believes in. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Weighing up the positive with the negative leaves me with more positives and I'm happy to endorse this album as a must-buy for fans of the debut and of <b>Joseph Williams</b>. It is a very catchy slice of classic style AOR and for that reason it will attract some great reviews and a lot of fan favor.<br /> But it could have been a tighter ship with a few changes and doesn't quite match the brilliance of the debut. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Joseph Williams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewseurope.html">I Am Alive</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewseurope.html">3</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="vertigo.p3">Vertigo</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 2<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Two Of Us</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joseph Williams:</b> Vocals, Piano<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Masi:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Virgil Donati:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi:</b> Bass, Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joseph Williams</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Blink of An Eye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Part Of Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Holy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Wanna Live Forever<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save It All For Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Picking Up The Pieces<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Together (Good-Bye So Long)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> There's A Reason<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a65353" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>John West</b> <font color="#ffffff">Long Time...No Sing</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD289 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/johnwest-longtimenosing.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John West</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48.03</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.johnwestmusic.com" target="new">John West</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>79%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">The voice of <b>Royal Hunt</b> returns with his forth solo album and second for Frontiers. This album signals a definite and noticeable change of direction for the hard rock singer, both stylistically and also in the way West delivers his vocals.<br /> This record turned my head for all the wrong reasons to start with. I wasn't sure I liked it at all and it has taken a dozen spins to get a handle on it and slowly it is growing on me. But there is definitely some areas I'm still not sold on.<br /> Gone is the progressive melodic metal feel and gone is the powerhouse vocals that were responsible for making West one of my favourite metal singers. In its place is a more contemporary sounding record – a more modern production style with an updated guitar sound and a simpler somewhat stripped back song structure, with almost no progressive elements present.<br /> While it can be said that this is a more melodic CD, it is not in the traditional sense of the word. Some of the songs are very melodic, but in a more restrained way. The choruses are not immediate at all and require a lot of listening to appreciate.<br /> West's voice is also rather different. It's far bluesier and has a more soulful edge, but in doing that, some of the edge has been removed and I find myself thinking I am listening to <b>Richie Kotzen</b> rather than the voice of Royal Hunt.<br /> I have very mixed feelings about this CD. While it isn't in a style that I prefer, you cannot deny that everything West does is done with class. The sound quality here is amazing - the production is slick and in your face and the musicianship within is the best it could possibly be.<br /> And it's almost unexplainable, but the record has a certain intensity that draws you in. Once you get to know the tracks, there are some definite highlights.<br /> Best of the album for me is the dark and heavy opening track <font color="#ffff00">Fade</font>, the similarly dark <font color="#ffff00">Over My Head</font> and the soulful <font color="#ffff00">Falling Down</font>. The mid-tempo commercial rocker <font color="#ffff00">Set Me Free</font> is good also, with <b>Lonnie Park's</b> keyboard parts really giving the song depth.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Give Me A Sign</font> is another twist, drawing on a 70s classic rock vibe.<br /> As the CD progresses the songs become more laid back and the choruses appear even less obvious, so you really must give this album time to develop. The star performer on this record is really the guitar playing rather than the vocals. I found myself on several occasions really getting into the musical base, before warming to the vocal style.<br /> At times there is a definite lack of John's big booming voice, but it is replaced here by a more laid back, soulful and almost alternative style vocal. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is a change of pace and direction for <b>John West</b> the solo artist. It is very melodic, yet very contemporary and some might find that the styles don't necessarily mix. And fans of the metal John West might find it the hardest to adapt to this record. But after a lot of listening I'm being turned around with each listen, so given the chance, this album has a definite alluring charm. It is such a departure for the singer it just takes some extra time to get used to it. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Mind Journey<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Permanent Mark<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="johnwest-earthmaker.html">Earth Maker</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Time…No Sing</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John West:</b> Vocals, Lead Guitar, Background Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Hampton, Chris Caffery:</b> Rhythm Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Plate:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lonnie Park:</b> Keyboards, Percussion, Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John West</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Us Pray<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fade <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Set Me Free<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give Me A Sign <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Highway Roppongi<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Over My Head <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The One That Got Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slipping Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One More Lie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better Believe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Puerto Amor<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b38824" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pride Of Lions</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live In Belgium</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD281 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/prideoflions-liveinbelgium.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jim Peterik, Larry Millas</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.jimpeterik.com" target="new">Jim Peterik</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a simple review. <b>Pride Of Lions</b> fans are going to love this and need this live release – both the CD and the DVD. The quality dictates that it must be an essential purchase. Those that have not yet fallen under the spell of <b>Jim Peterik's</b> post-Survivor AOR vehicle will probably not find what they are looking for in this release.<br /> Simple. Ok, I had better elaborate somewhat…<br /> A little effort has been put in here, making it a really nice package for fans.<br /> With two albums and a couple of EPs to their name and a handful of special live appearances <b>Pride Of Lions</b> have been building a strong reputation for quality old-school AOR.<br /> On this release the guys behind the scenes get to shine as much as anybody else. Some of Chicago's finest make up the backbone of the band and on stage, despite limited preparation; they are as tight as a pair of undersized leather pants.<br /> Jim Peterik also shines, with the live environment allowing him a little more freedom with his guitar tricks. He really is an under-appreciated axe-slinger. As well as tackling the best tracks of the two studio albums to date, the guys also get to drag a few golden oldies out of the closet. <b>Survivor</b> classics <font color="#ffff00">The Search Is Over, I Can't Hold Back</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Eye Of The Tiger</font> are given a run and vocalist <b>Toby Hitchcock</b> gives them his best shot. He isn't Jimi Jamison, but then again, few – if any – could be.<br /> Of the POL tracks, the opening track <font color="#ffff00">It's Criminal</font> really rocks, with an extended guitar solo going well into the close of the track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sound Of Home</font> is a bonafide AOR classic as is <font color="#ffff00">The Courage To Love Somebody</font> and they shine here. As do the aforementioned Survivor classics – the 8 minute <font color="#ffff00">Eye Of The Tiger</font> especially glorious.<br /> I also love <font color="#ffff00">The Gift Of Song</font>…by the close of the show Toby has really loosened up and the superb album track really goes over well live – despite the inclusion of the necessary pre-taped orchestral parts.<br /> Complaint time – fading of the crowd noise between tracks on live albums just bugs the absolute crap out of me. This is a live album, not a studio greatest hits and doing this really kills the momentum of what is supposed to be a free flowing experience.<br /> There is already 2 discs in play here – extended out the gig and break it off into the second CD. Don't cut the crowd next time please.<br /> The second disc is one for the real fans. Comprised of bonus and unreleased studio cuts, it features:<br /> The gritty <font color="#ffff00">Reckless Love</font> was originally released as Japanese bonus track from <font color="#00ffff">The Destiny Stone</font>; the ok ballad <font color="#ffff00">Stand By You</font> comes from the <font color="#00ffff">Sound of Home EP</font>; as does the groovy <font color="#ffff00">So Deadly</font>.<br /> The subtle, but powerful ballad <font color="#ffff00">Surrender To The Night</font> comes from the Japanese bonus track to <font color="#00ffff">Pride of Lions</font> and the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Dark Angel</font> was previously unreleased, besides being offered as a download on this site a while back.<br /> The heartfelt ballad <font color="#ffff00">Black Ribbons (Voices Of The World)</font> is dedicated to the lives lost in the Spanish terrorist attack is from the EP released especially for the occasion.<br /> Closing out the bonus disc is a favourite of mine, <font color="#ffff00">Feels Like Another Planet</font> – a sparse track which features a powerful vocal.<br /> <br /> On the <b>DVD</b> Toby's stiffness is more evident. He is still growing as a singer and a performer and you can see him loosen up during the show to the point where I think he's actually enjoying himself and not thinking so much about what he is doing – especially towards the end.<br /> The audio and video quality is unquestionable and is possibly the best live DVD from Frontiers to date. A great picture, lots of angles and a spotlight on all on stage makes it a very enjoyable watch. All in all, the DVD is a better example of the live show as there are no breaks and you get the full concert experience. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> So after a more detailed review, a simple summary… Pride Of Lions fans need this and others should go back to the debut studio album and make sure you are not missing out on a great classic AOR band. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="prideoflions.p3">Pride Of Lions</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="prideoflions-thedestinystone.p3">The Destiny Stone</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live In Belgium</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toby Hitchcock:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik:</b> Guitars, Vocals, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ed Breckenfeld:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Klem Hayes:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian Cullen:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Aquino:</b> Guitars</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pride Of Lions</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Survivor</b></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Criminal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sound of Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Man Behind The Mask<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Search Is Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Music And Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vehicle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Courage To Love Somebody<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Ribbons (Voices Of The World)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unbreakable<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Kind Of Fool<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Hold Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Gift Of Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye Of The Tiger<br /> <br /> CD2: (Bonus studio tracks)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reckless Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand By You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So Deadly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Surrender To The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dark Angel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Ribbons (Voices Of The World)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feels Like Another Planet</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c16100" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cloudscape</b> <font color="#ffffff">Crimson Skies</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00020 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/cloudscape-crimsonskies.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Pontus Lindmark</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60.42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">For a metal outfit, Sweden's <b>Cloudscape</b> are pretty slick. There is barely a note out of place on this album, their second following last year's strong debut. To my ears the guys have improved on just about all aspects of their debut. Production is first rate, the performances all but flawless and the songwriting appears more proficient. More hooks, melodies and a lot more layers of instrumentation – from swirling keyboards to big drum fills and guitar solos galore.<br /> The band's sound reminds me a little of a more aggressive <b>Mind's Eye</b> – another Swedish progressive melodic metal outfit and also a little Allen/Lande in there also.<br /> Highlights from the record include <font color="#ffff00">Shadowland</font> which features a great lead vocal and a strong chorus hook, not to mention a dramatic setting. It is one of the more commercial numbers, surrounded by the darker and heavier numbers such as <font color="#ffff00">And Then The Rain…</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Shapeshifter</font>.<br /> The frantic rhythm of <font color="#ffff00">Psychic Imbalance</font> still allows room for a good melody and <font color="#ffff00">Someone Else</font> is another strong track mixing progressive and hard rock elements. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The band stated that the record would be more melodic and more progressive and they stay true to that word. This is a very accessible record despite it's heaviness and proof that the Europeans continue to deliver the best metal around right now. The only downside is I think the album sounds very familiar in places. A little more variance between songs would have been an added bonus. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Cloudscape<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crimson Skies</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Andersson:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Björn Eliasson, Patrik Svard:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roger Landin:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Haynes Pherson:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>European melodic metal</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Shapeshifter <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadowland <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> And Then The Rain … <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take The Blame<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Last Breath<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Psychic Imbalance <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hope<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breach In My Sanity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Demon Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 1000 Souls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someone Else <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Will We Remain<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#008000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gotthard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Made In Switzerland</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Nuclear Blast</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/gotthard-madeinswitzerland.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Gotthard</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 78.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.gotthard.com" target="new">Gotthard</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Everyone's current favourite <b>Gotthard</b> follow up their fabulous last studio album with a live recording from the ensuing tour. The Swiss rockers really got themselves back in the game with their last album and other bands would do well to look at the formula used to make it happen.<br /> They delivered an album of great songs in a style that fans wanted to hear and bugger me, it actually sold a stack! What a concept…<br /> Anyway, live in their homeland of Switzerland, this album sees the guys run through 17 tracks – the best of their back catalogue and all the current favourites from <font color="#00ffff">Lipservice</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All We Are, Dream On</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Lift U Up</font> all sound larger than life in concert and still sound fresh and exciting.<br /> Past classics like <font color="#ffff00">Hush</font> (the Deep Purple cover), <font color="#ffff00">Heaven, Anytime Anywhere, One Life One Soul</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Top Of The World</font> crunch through the speakers, sounding as good as ever despite line-up changes within the band. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Basically this is an essential companion piece for those that own the <font color="#00ffff">Lipservice</font> record. I'm reviewing from a promo copy of the album – the retail version comes with an accompanying DVD, so I really must go out and get that right now. Bye… </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Gotthard<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dial Hard<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> G<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Defrosted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Open<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="gotthard-homerun.html">Homerun</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="gotthard-humanzoo.p3">Human Zoo</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="gotthard-lipservice.p3">Lip Service</a></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Steve Lee<br /> Leo Leoni<br /> Marc Lynn<br /> Hena Habegger<br /> Freddy Scherer</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gotthard</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> All We Are<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hush<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mountain Mama<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Be<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Top Of The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Wonder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Said And Done<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Life One Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Left At All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sister Moon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mighty Quinn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Name<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lift U Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anytime Anywhere<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Immigrant Song</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#800080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mother's Finest</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At The Villa Berg</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-162 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mothersfinest-live.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Mother's Finest</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Funk Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Mother's Finest</b> are a band rarely mentioned on this site. It's not that they aren't musically worthy – they just haven't been on my personal radar and they haven't been making records.<br /> The funk hard rockers return with this live album that also includes 4 new studio cuts.<br /> These are the band's first new tracks since 1998 and see them retain the same groove as what made them famous.<br /> With a dual female and male lead vocal attack, the 4 new tracks feature 2 rockers and 2 soulful ballads, one of each for the two vocalists.<br /> A ground breaking band in their day, the band's roots hark back to the 70s and that influence continues to shine through. They were rocking out and breaking ground long before <b>Red Hot Chilli Peppers</b> even formed.<br /> The live recording sounds fine – nice and even in the mix and very clear in sound quality. At 17 odd tracks, it also covers the band's best material and is definitely something established fans will and should want to get.<br /> For those unfamiliar with the band – better check the soundbytes first. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> They are a truly groovy band – if you like that kind of thing. I'm very surprised to see them on <b>MTM Music</b> and I'm still not sure it's a good match. They perhaps would have been better off on a more diverse label that has a more open minded purchasing base. The MTM name is synonymous with melodic rock and AOR and rarely have they diverged from that path.<br /> But, regardless of label, <b>Mothers Finest</b> fans should investigate this with haste. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Live At Villa Berg</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joyce "Baby Jean" Kennedy, Glenn "Doc" Murdock:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary "Moses Mo" Moore, John Hayes:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dion Derek:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jerry "Wyzard" Seay:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Funk Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Do Me Right<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Obey, Obey, Obey<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Your Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crime Of Nature<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Funk A While<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Truth<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Wanna<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard Rock Lover<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nigizz Groove<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Power<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flat On My Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Believe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mandala Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mickey's Monkey<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mo's Guitar Solo<br /> <br /> CD2:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Baby Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wyz Bass Solo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> P.O. Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Satisfaction / Born To Be Wild<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Fight The Feeling</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bonfire</b> <font color="#ffffff">Double X</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LZ Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">02667800040 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bonfire-doublex.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Claus Lessmann & Hans Ziller</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63.56</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.bonfire.de" target="new">Bonfire</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Bonfire's</b> last studio album was so bad it nearly put them out of business. It put them in a position where nothing less than an absolute classic was required to get them back to the top of the heap.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Double X</font> is not that album, but it at least gets the band somewhat back on track. The guys return to the same hard rocking sound used prior to the horrible <font color="#00ffff">Free</font> album.<br /> The only problem is that it does not address the very same issue the band's fans have had for a decade now – a desire for the guys to return to their very best – the sounds of such classics as <font color="#00ffff">Fireworks</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Point Blank</font>.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Double X</font> will please long time fans that stayed patient, as it returns to the band's straight ahead European hard rock sound and is more or less, a melodic friendly record.<br /> The album itself sounds great – sonically much better than <font color="#00ffff">Free</font>. The guys produced it themselves and their individual performances are of a high standard – as one would expect.<br /> The songs themselves still need some work. I still don't hear enough big hooks and there are no real rocking anthems or high flying harmony vocals as there were on the band's earliest albums.<br /> When they rock – the just rock – such as on <font color="#ffff00">Day 9-11, But We Still Rock, Right Things Right</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Bet Your Bottom Dollar</font>. I could use some bigger choruses here and the guitars are more or less riffing without much flair – not too many theatrics in play here.<br /> On this album the guys actually sound their best when they slow it down a little. The mid-tempo and acoustic driven <font color="#ffff00">Cry For Help</font> has a great chorus; <font color="#ffff00">What's On Your Mind</font> is a great little pop/rock anthem and <font color="#ffff00">Notion Of Love</font> brings back memories of the band's best years.<br /> The big ballad of the album <font color="#ffff00">Blink Of An Eye</font> is included twice – a little unnecessary. The 6 minute regular version is "enhanced" by a nearly 8 minute extended version that closes the album. Once would have been enough fellas!<br /> And a special mention for <font color="#ffff00">Rap Is Crap</font>. Yes I agree completely with the lyrical sentiment of the track, but it's pretty average at best and didn't they have a little rap influence on one track from the last album? </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Ok, so the band is back on track. Now it is truly time to think about what the fans have been asking for and deliver big time on the next record. Bonfire are an institution when it comes to the pioneers of European melodic hard rock – but it's time again for them to show the young guns how it is done before they are rendered irrelevant by those same young guns such as <b>Wig Wam</b>, who are now doing it bigger and better. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Recent Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonfire-strikex.html">Strike X</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live Bullets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Acoustic Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonfire-free.p3">Free</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Double X</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Clauss Lessman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hans Ziller:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jurgen Weihler:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Uwe Kohler:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bonfire</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Day 911<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> But We Still Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cry For Help <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bet Your Bottom Dollar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What's On Your Mind? <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blink Of An Eye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rap Is Crap!<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Notion Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right Things Right<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard To Say<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wings To Fly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So What?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blink Of An Eye (Extended)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0000ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Phil Soussan</b> <font color="#ffffff">Vibrate</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Puss in Blue Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">49768-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/philsoussan-vibrate.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Phil Soussan</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 61.36</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Pop Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.philsoussan.com" target="new">Phil Soussan</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Phil Soussan</b> is a session great and also the former bassist for <b>Beggars & Thieves, John Waite, Vince Neil</b> and <b>Ozzy Osbourne</b> to name just a few.<br /> This is his first solo record and is a very diverse and eclectic collection of songs that will appeal to those that look for something different and appreciate the singer/songwriter approach to melodic pop/rock.<br /> Highlights for me include <font color="#ffff00">Open Your Eyes</font>, a glorious melodic number with a great hook; <font color="#ffff00">Friend By My Side</font> is funkier and in <b>Richie Kotzen</b> friendly territory; <font color="#ffff00">In America</font> is more laid back and subtle and reminds me of <b>The Rembrandts</b>; <font color="#ffff00">Smile</font> features a more upfront electric guitar sound and a strong lead vocal and the Celtic ballad <font color="#ffff00">She Couldn't Cry</font>.<br /> In the same way <b>Richie Kotzen's</b> solo records sound completely different to that of his work with the likes of Mr. Big, so to does Phil's solo record in relation to his past work.<br /> It has a similar vibe to that of Kotzen – a player who knows a lot more than he is normally required to perform and lets loose now he has the chance. Guests include <b>Toto's Steve Lukather, Simon Philips, Steve Porcaro</b> and <b>David Paich</b> along with <b>Richie Kotzen, Gregg & Bud Bissonnette</b> and more. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A nice solid mid-tempo melodic pop/rock record that delivers some quality songs in a fresh and original way. Those that enjoy a little acoustic/bluesy pop twist to their standard melodic rock might find this a worthwhile investment. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Def Leppard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Yeah!</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/defleppard-yeah.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Def Leppard</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48.13</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Classic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.defleppard.com" target="new">Def Leppard</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>68%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>50%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Ok, so you see the score. Now just why is it so?<br /> I think this is the strangest scenario for writing a review that I have encountered in my 10 years running this site.<br /> It all began when I gave what was perceived as an unfavorable preview of the album from a leaked unmastered copy some 18 months back.<br /> The comments themselves were not that bad. Sure, a few tracks descriptions were, but overall the sentiment I expressed was that of disappointment in the whole covers album concept and to this day don't believe it does <b>Def Leppard</b> any favors.<br /> My comments were taken personally by none other than band frontman <b>Joe Elliott</b> who unloaded on me publicly and has continued to do so on several occasions since then. The latest swipe came only this week…this from a band that actually holds position #1 on my all time favourite albums list. Yes, <font color="#00ffff">Hysteria</font> is my favourite record of some 5000 CDs on my shelves.<br /> So, here is a band that I love; using a concept for an album that I generally loathe; with a frontman who is openly attacking me whenever prompted; and with fans and readers taking sides, ready to pounce to add their 2c worth once this review is posted.<br /> Joe says I am not a real journalist. I'll take his comments on the chin, but the reality is that I was actually one of the very few outlets that supported the <font color="#00ffff">X</font> album and gave it a rave review. I went against the grain with that and to this day believe it was a criminally under-promoted record and could have done much bigger business had it been given the chance.<br /> Had I given more positive comments in my 2005 preview of this album, the whole debate that ensued would be moot. But I didn't and since then this saga has taken on a life of its own, fuelled by Joe's taunts and my amusement in passing on those comments to readers.<br /> And here we are at last…<br /> Lets be blunt - I am expected to hate this album. I am expected to react to Joe's silly taunts and dig the knife in now it is turn for me to have my say with this "official review".<br /> But you know what, I don't hate this album and I still love the band. Maybe not the singer so much, but the band, sure.<br /> I don't hate the album, but still hate the concept. I stand by all of my original comments that I think this is a waste of the band's time and merely a stop gap measure between studio albums.<br /> If this album was churned out in quick time 12 months after the last album <font color="#00ffff">X</font>, then I would be far more understanding.<br /> I was slated by Joe for reviewing a half finished album. Not true. The retail version in fans hands today is no different than what I first heard, although now the album has been properly mastered, giving it a much brighter and engaging sound, but I never criticized that aspect of the recording.<br /> The final released product doesn't disguise some very laid back performances and a distinct lack of Leppard-isms within the recording itself.<br /> When it comes down to how the band wanted to do this, the guys are placed in a 'damned if they do, damned if they don't' situation. Stay true to the originals and you are just copying, but venture too far away and you are being disrespectful. It's a hard call, so I say why not avoid those issues in the first place and concentrate on new material?<br /> This album is a very 'true to the original' type of tribute release. The songs are faithful reproductions of how the original tunes sounded.<br /> And I must say, being familiar with most of the songs covered here, the band has captured the spirit of these original songs rather well.<br /> How much any given fan is going to enjoy the actual songs is another matter. I expect many long time fans will enjoy it as something different from the band – but how many will still be playing it 3 months down the track?<br /> I have purchased my copy of the album, but once this review is finally completed, I don't expect to play it again. Ever! Having said that, I'm still playing <font color="#00ffff">X</font> after 4 years and I'm still playing <font color="#00ffff">Hysteria</font> after 19 years!<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Opening the album is <font color="#ffff00">20th Century Boy</font> (T-Rex). Uptempo yes, but still fairly restrained. I think a reasonable choice to open the album. It sets up the pace and the feel of the overall album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rock On</font> (David Essex) has been chosen as the new lead track, most probably as it is one of the most recognizable songs to American fans. And let's be honest here – America is where the band sees its fortune these days. The better chart result there first week in and the great response to the band's upcoming tour there shows where the money is to be made.<br /> The track itself is an updated, but faithful rendition which suits Elliott's softer vocal approach used on this album. Unfortunately I think it is one of the more forgettable tracks of the album having heard it covered plenty enough before already. I do like the lead guitar break mid-track though.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hanging On The Telephone</font> (Blondie) is one of my favourite tracks of the album and one of the few instances where I think the band have improved upon the original. This version is more polished and the chorus harmonies suit that of the band. Same goes for the lead guitar. A catchy song made even more enjoyable.<br /> I have already praised <font color="#ffff00">Waterloo Sunset</font> as a great track to cover, how could anyone go wrong with <b>The Kinks</b>? The tone and the delivery is near perfect and I think this is probably my favourite track on the album and perhaps the only one I would pick out to include on a self-constructed <b>Def Leppard</b> compilation. The most 'Leppard' of all the tracks covered.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hell Raiser</font> (Sweet) is a good change in tempo. The album needed a rocker at this point and that's what you get. I'm not a big fan of this glammy track though. It's just a little…well, I can't take it seriously and the added vocals from <b>The Darkness' Justin Hawkins</b> just compounds that problem.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">10538 Overture</font> (ELO) is a track that I don't think goes anywhere. Def Leppard are famous for their hooks and this track just doesn't have one. Curious song to include and not one I enjoyed then or now.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Street Life</font> (Roxy Music) is more in keeping with the band's sound and this track rattles along at a fair pace. Still no major chorus hook and another track I'm not sold on.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Drive-in Saturday</font> (David Bowie) sees the album in a bit of a hook-free run. The song returns to the laid back vibe. I like Joe Elliott's lead vocal here. I'm not a fan of the original track or this version still, but I do like the tone of Joe's vocal and his performance here. You can tell that he believes in the song. Some nice instrumentation, but the song just doesn't have that flair expected from Def Leppard songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Little Bit Of Love</font> (Free) is a good choice for the album and a chance for the band to include a good commercial rock track that most will be familiar with.<br /> No album paying tribute to the best of British classic rock would be complete without a track by <b>Mott The Hoople</b>. <font color="#ffff00">The Golden Age Of Rock`n` Roll</font> is Leppard's choice here and I can't argue with that. It is a bit of a throw-away rocker, but it's all in good fun.<br /> I'll stick with my original comments about <font color="#ffff00">No Matter What</font> (Badfinger) - a pleasant mid-tempo pop song and similar in vibe to Waterloo Sunset. Ok, but not essential.<br /> And my feelings are identical regarding <font color="#ffff00">He`s Gonna Step On You Again</font> (John Kongos). This is a tired old rocker that I could live without. I believe I called it dreadful back when I first heard it and my feelings haven't changed. Doesn't suit the band at all and I could easily go on without ever hearing the song (in any form) again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Don't Believe A Word</font> (Thin Lizzy), is far better. Better suited for the band, better suited for the album and a classic song that couldn't be done badly. It also suits Joe and the band and is another of my favourites from the album. Still love the <b>Andy Taylor</b> version the best though.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stay With Me</font> (The Faces) is a great fun rocker and Phil adds his deftly tuned best <b>Rod Stewart</b> vocal impersonation here. A good fun track and a good way to close the album, but I have another issue with this track. It has appeared elsewhere before and I believe most die-hards fans would already have it. With several other tracks available for inclusion, why not relegate this to bonus track status?<br /> I won't comment on the various bonus tracks available in various formats here as quite frankly, they are not part of the album for the vast majority of those purchasing this. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> All in all – this is an average album. Not great, certainly not awful….just very average and I think <b>Def Leppard</b> is a much better band than that.<br /> Without being flippant, I think the album is fairly enjoyable in the now, but largely forgettable in the long term. And the most disappointing aspect is that it will probably be another 2 years until we finally get that proper new studio album we all long for.<br /> <br /> I reviewed this album without any prior reference to my original comments some 18 months back. I found those again after I finished this review and re-read them. What I found really surprising is that most of the comments – both good and bad mirror those I typed out originally.<br /> I still love the same tracks as then and I still really dislike some of the others. Joe may have lambasted me for reviewing a 'half finished album', but my views then are almost identical to the retail version available now.<br /> Proof that this album was a flawed concept from the start. I am just not a fan of covers albums – not when new material would be much preferred. Case in point - two of my favourite artists ever - <b>Rick Springfield</b> and <b>Toto</b>. I didn't rate their covers albums highly either. For long time Leppard fans there is already the numerous covers used as B-Sides and Joe's own <b>Cybernauts</b> release (which I reviewed <a href="cybernauts-live.html">here</a>).<br /> <br /> The upside of all this? The band is now free from their US record contract and can plot a new course from here.<br /> Despite the ongoing rhetoric I believe I have put my opinions forward in a respectful and fair manner. I expect many might disagree with what I have said, but let's just see...<br /> And that's it for this Tasmanian review... </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> On Through The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> High And Dry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pyromania<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hysteria<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Adrenalize<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> RetroActive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vault<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slang<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="defleppard-euphoria.p3">Euphoria</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="defleppard-x.p3">X</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Best Of / Rock Of Ages<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Yeah!</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Elliott:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Phil Collen, Vivian Campbell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Allen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Savage:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Leps</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> 20th Century Boy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hanging On The Telephone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waterloo Sunset <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hell Raiser<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 10538 Overture<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Street Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Drive-in Saturday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Little Bit Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Golden Age Of Rock `n` Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Matter What<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> He`s Gonna Step On You Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don`t Believe A Word <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay With Me<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Queensryche</b> <font color="#ffffff">Operation Mindcrime 2</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Rhino Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/queensryche-mindcrime2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jason Slater</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> WORLD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.queensryche.com" target="new">Queensryche</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Review on this occasion by Mick Ward.</b><br /> <br /> Typically full of twists and turns, the plot line for <font color="#00ffff">Operation Mindcrime II</font> is rich intricate and involved. Whether you love or despise this incarnation of <b>Queensryche</b> is beside the point, for what the band has delivered here is quite the effort, dressing this sequel up in what resembles the sounds of an 80's era Queensryche while continuing to evolve and not duplicate themselves. A daunting task and first impressions would have the listener convinced that the band have succeeded in remaining faithful to the original in both story arc and its delivery. Yet while the plot should enthrall, the music and song delivery require closer examination.<br /> Too often the melody lines which <b>Geoff Tate</b> sings veer on the side of pop, reminiscent of those on his Geoff Tate solo album and distance themselves from the obvious attempt by the musicians to put some metal back in the band. Also, on too many occasions a strong opening riff gives way to a softer song or, for want of a better word a ballad. Regardless of the story lines' requirement for these moments of fluff, MCII is flawed by the inclusion of too many of these softer moments.<br /> MCII is less metal and more hard rock with a creative edge. However, having said that, the venture into new territory is occasionally quite extraordinary. The unfamiliar style of <font color="#ffff00">Re-Arrange You</font> is absolutely wonderful, its exceptional chorus and driving verses leave you wanting more. <font color="#ffff00">Fear City Slide</font> reeks of <font color="#00ffff">Empire</font> era Queensryche and, aside from its rather unusual, bordering on awful pop sing-a-long chorus, the song is quite the number.<br /> The idea of sharing vocals with <b>Ronnie James Dio</b> on <font color="#ffff00">The Chase</font>, in theory is brilliant, but the reality should have challenged its performers so much more, the song lacks in dynamic and by no means does it showcase either vocalist's true ability. Good but could have been so much more!<br /> When seeking the reason behind such a subdued performance, consideration needs to be given on how this album came about - allegedly Tate made use of storyboards to structure the story preparing it for a more theatrical presentation. So perhaps here lies the problem. Whereas the first Mindcrime captured you with its sensational songs and musicianship whilst at the same time working cohesively with an intricate and compelling story, MCII puts the story first and has instead been drafted from concept to song, thus resulting in a more crowded and at times forced atmosphere, the story getting caught up in its very own theatrics and leaving less room for the music to breathe.<br /> Thankfully many of the tunes push through this small barrier, tracks such as the dark and brooding <font color="#ffff00">Hostage</font> and the catchy and sharp delivery of <font color="#ffff00">The Hands</font> send the listener on a definite trip down metallic memory lane proudly giving a wink to anything from the <font color="#00ffff">Rage for Order</font> to the <font color="#00ffff">Promised Land</font> eras. Put simply both tunes are brilliant!<br /> The slightly fumbled yet kick ass <font color="#ffff00">I'm American</font> launches the album out of the starter gates and while it reeks of a deliberate attempt at capturing the spirit of the first Mindcrime, it is a galloping rocker in its own right. Rejoice!<br /> One also cannot ignore the intensity and uniqueness of <font color="#ffff00">Murderer</font>, perhaps too obscure for the casual listener; Murderer borders on chaotic but its driving bass and progressive style make for one of the strongest moments in Queensryche history.<br /> Thankfully there are plenty of guitar solos and some shared, although unlike the songs from which they come, the solos fail to ingrain themselves in your head daring you to duplicate them on your own six string like those of years gone by, which leaves the album a tad unfulfilling in this regard, but they do complete the songs and its damn pleasing to hear 'em none the less.<br /> Unfortunately, being the prime architect for the album, Tate will likely take the brunt of any negativity that comes their way but on a positive note his performance is flawless. Regardless of less range, he relishes the emotions of MCII and hasn't sounded this dark, angry or convincing on a release since the release of Promised Land.<br /> Executed to perfection with a fat production that dabbles in yesteryear while staying very in the now and giving MCII the dramatic effect it requires, the band have indeed thrown down a worthy album. If it's the Mindcrime tag that has caused this sudden darker and much better Queensryche to appear or re-appear, whichever way you see it, then for that we should be thankful. With the changes the band has had to endure, newcomers <b>Mike Stone</b> sharing guitar duties with <b>Michael Wilton</b> and <b>Jason Slater</b> taking on production values finally sees the band settling into a sound and style which most fans should embrace. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not as convincing or near perfect as the first Mindcrime (seriously, did we really expect it could be?), MCII should be taken on its own merits. It is a well rounded and well executed album, an album from which I personally would have preferred more metal and/or anthems, (or at the very least more songs in the vein of <font color="#ffff00">Hostage</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I'm American</font>), but aside from this and all its flaws the band prove yet again that they still have plenty of that creative juice. Unlikely to regain many lost fans but more than catering for the loyal, <b>Queensryche</b> remain a very unique and valid band who on MCII offer many many moments of brilliance, something too rarely seen in today's music industry.<br /> Masterpiece? Dramatic swansong or a rebirth of sorts? Time will tell. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Queensryche<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Warning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rage For Order<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Operation:Mindcrime<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Empire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Promised Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hear In The Now Frontier<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Q2K<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="queensryche-tribe.p3">Tribe</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Operation Mindcrime 2</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Geoff Tate:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Wilton, Mike Stone:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott Rockenfield:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ed Jackson:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Queensryche</b> - Operation Mindcrime</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Freiheit Ouverture<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Convict<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm American<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Foot in Hell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hostage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hands<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Speed of Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Signs Say Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Re-Arrange You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chase<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Murderer?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Circles<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If I Could Change It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> An Intentional Confrontation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Junkie's Blues</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>House Of Mirrors</b> <font color="#ffffff">Desolation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM131 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/houseofmirrors-desolation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Timo Haanpää</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> <a href="http://www.house-of-mirrors.com/" target="new">House Of Mirrors</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>House of Mirrors</b> are a Finnish melodic hard rock/ metal band that have been around for over a decade now, but only broke through with their 2004 debut.<br /> 2 years later the follow up is upon us and while it is an enjoyable and sometimes impressive release, it seems the lessons of the debut haven't been learnt and the end result is an album that doesn't quite match its predecessor.<br /> The band's main problem is diversity. As with the debut, the guys don't quite know what direction to take, resulting in an album that covers straight ahead hard rock, melodic metal, pomp and even AOR.<br /> There are actually some very likable tracks included here and the guys can certainly write and play without any question. But when the styles jump around so much, it doesn't give the listener any time to settle in.<br /> The album's first three tracks are all hard rocking European melodic metal, with the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Desolation</font> the highlight there.<br /> Then there is the about face on <font color="#ffff00">Where Are You Now</font>, a glorious pomp/AOR ballad with hints of <b>Boston</b> and <b>Journey</b> present.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Waiting In The Wings</font> then sounds like Europe in their commercial 80s heyday, before <font color="#ffff00">On The Red Line</font> returns the band to a heavier footing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gone With The Summer</font> sees another about face – this is an acoustic driven ballad with a touch of flamenco guitar!<br /> A trio of mid-tempo commercial hard rockers follows with a big power ballad in <font color="#ffff00">Heart To Heart</font> closing the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Yes, the band have certainly developed and the album as a whole sounds great – it's well produced and the performances are solid to say the least. On their own the songs show some depth and will appeal to fans of Scandi melodic hard rock, but the diversity within the album will mean may will like some aspects but not all.<br /> Still, I have heard a lot worse and accepting the changing styles, enjoyed this album for what it offers. There is still room for the band to improve and deliver a great album though. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Nightflight To Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desolation</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pekka Rautiainen:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaakko Niitemaa:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rasmus Puranen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jankke Kuismin:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jussi Mäkelä:</b> Percussion</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scandi Melodic Hard Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Desolation <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fallen Leaf<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Are You Now <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting In The Wings <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Red Line<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gone With The Summer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> These Chains<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Masquerede<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sparks Will Fly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart To Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c1582b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Empire</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Raven Ride</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00019 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/empire-theravenride.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Rolf Munkes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal / Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.net" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Empire</b> haven't previously set my world on fire and perhaps don't quite do that once again here. But this is definitely their best release to date and I think their most consistent also.<br /> The band's 3rd release sees them hit their straps, with their most memorable material on hand and on this occasion truly working as a band unit and not just another all-star project.<br /> Vocalist <b>Tony Martin</b> sounds in top form, with some authorative and at times menacing lead vocals…a performance that I think I prefer over his recent solo album.<br /> <b>Rolf Monkes</b> has a nice guitar tone featured on this record – tough and heavy without being too dominant or relying on down-tuning to portray angst.<br /> 10 tracks and 40 minutes of intense European hard rock is on offer here, kicking off with the Martin era Sabbath-like drama of <font color="#ffff00">The Raven Ride</font>, flowing into the slightly less intense <font color="#ffff00">Breathe</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Satanic Curses</font> is the next track to gain my attention – a slow, dark and moody metal track fans of Martin will love.<br /> There are a few fillers featured, but the hard rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">What Would I Do?</font> is a quality song and nice mid-album tempo changer.<br /> The more commercial <font color="#ffff00">Changing World</font> follows on nicely and the rather bizarre chorus vocal of Maximum makes that quite an interesting track.<br /> The uptempo <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Trust Myself</font> is about as commercial as <b>Martin</b> or <b>Empire</b> has come and will appeal to hard rock fans across the board. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The album runs a fairly varied path from commercial hard rock to intense melodic metal. But all the way through it remains consistent and should appeal to all fans of the band's previous work and especially fans of <b>Tony Martin</b>. Production quality is excellent and the added effects and textures within the tracks give the listener something to come back to over repeated listens. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hypnotica<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Trading Souls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Raven Ride</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Martin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rolf Munkes:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andre Hilgers:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Neil Murray:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Empire</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Martin</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Raven Ride <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breathe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carbon Based Lifeform<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Satanic Curses <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Al Sirat - The Bridge To Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Would I Do? <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Changing World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Maximum <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Trust Myelf <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Devil Speaks, The Sinner Cries<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Winterstrain</b> <font color="#ffffff">Return To The Mirror</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Z Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">04970115 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/winterstrain-returntothemirror.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> RE Nyland & Arnulf Ovre</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55.49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> European Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.winterstrain.com" target="new">Winterstrain</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Winterstrain</b> are a Norwegian hard rock outfit who count British singer <b>Tony Mills</b> among their biggest fans. Tony has helped the guys out with backing vocals and additional harmony vocals. His involvement however, should not draw you to compare these guys to <b>Shy</b>, although the backing vocals are at times quite rich and in that higher range.<br /> The guys are most definitely a hard rock / progressive outfit, although the lead vocals are very melodic and most enjoyable.<br /> I think the guitar tone is a little out of balance with the rest of the album, it sounds a little hollow in several places, but guitarist <b>Arnulf Ovre</b> does offer some of the best riffing this side of <b>Yngwie Malmsteen</b>.<br /> This is another band that delivers a very diverse album. There's a little prog-metal (<font color="#ffff00">The Family Secret, Rumours At Speak</font>), there is some dramatic hard rock (<font color="#ffff00">Another Time, Another Day In Your World</font>) and at times some lush orchestral style moments (<font color="#ffff00">Leon, Broken Defence</font>).<br /> Then there is the epic closing number <font color="#ffff00">Sail</font> which mixes all of the above into one. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not an easy album to understand on the first listen, so a little patience is needed for the pay-off. The band has their own sound and I think will attract a decent following with this album. Not for everyone, but if you are looking for something with power and finesse and like it a little left of center and with a European slant, then this album might be a good investment. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Return To The Mirror</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>G.H. Friedheim:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Arnulf Øvre:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rolf-Erik Nyland:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lars Rikard Kvaal:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Karl Gudmund Birkely:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Swedish hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Family Secret <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rumours At Speak <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mountain Inside The Stone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Defence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Battle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sail<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0053a6" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>House Of Lords</b> <font color="#ffffff">World Upside Down</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD283 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/houseoflords-worldupsidedown.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> James Christian <b>Mixed:</b> Dennis Ward</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.jameschristianmusic.com" target="new">House Of Lords</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>97%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">So there is a little controversy to this album. I think once any <b>House Of Lords</b> fan gets through the album for the first time, any doubts will be erased.<br /> <b>House Of Lords</b> caused a stir with their last studio album <font color="#00ffff">The Power & The Myth</font>, perhaps for the wrong reasons though. The record found its fans, but a good portion on the traditional HOL fanbase were unhappy with the change in style and direction taken by the band.<br /> It wasn't just the style - it was also the time taken in getting the record done and singer <b>James Christian</b> also came under fire for his vocal performance.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">World Upside Down</font> is some quirky way is an apt title for this new album. Since the last record, everything in the HOL camp has been turned upside down. In comes a new line-up...the record was written and recorded in quick time...and stylistically the band reverts back to everything that made the HOL name great.<br /> One could argue that the new line-up isn't truly <b>House Of Lords</b>, but there will be just as many, if not more, that will argue that the last album with the original line-up didn't sound anything like what was expected of the band.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">World Upside Down</font> however is totally <b>House Of Lords</b> in sound and direction. <b>James Christian</b> steers the band through rocky waters into a glorious bay of harmonies, wailing guitars, huge choruses and a big fat production sound that sees this album stand proudly between the self-titled debut and <font color="#00ffff">Demon's Down</font>.<br /> This is a bloody fine melodic rock record and everyone involved deserves a little credit. This is a very energetic record and literally jumps from the speakers. <b>James Christian</b> sounds amazing – as good as I can remember and certainly the best since <font color="#00ffff">Demons Down</font>. New guitarist <b>Jimi Bell</b> plays all over this record - riffs galore, but some great solos and blazing overdubs too. <b>Jeff Kent</b> and <b>BJ Zampa</b> supply a hearty rhythm section and Jeff double-dips with some traditional <b>House Of Lords</b> keyboard parts.<br /> Original keys man and band founder <b>Gregg Giuffria</b> returns in a cameo role, with several keyboard passages included, but his influence over the record is easy to pick. His advice to the guys on production and keyboard sounds means this record retains the feel of the original band.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> A nice typically overblown intro in the form of <font color="#ffff00">Mask Of Eternity</font> opens the album, signaling the band's intentions with this record - blazing guitars and an epic production.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">These Are The Times</font> is a strong opening track and a typical HOL styled uptempo melodic rocker. A strong chorus is amplified by some big vocals and a hearty guitar riff. Welcome back guys!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All The Way To Heaven</font> is another trademark HOL track, but this time relying on the band's knack of serving up a rock anthem wrapped up in a moody, angst filled delivery. Some big backing vocals, a very melodic chorus and a quirky lyrical theme familiar to the band add to the track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Field Of Shattered Dreams</font> is a huge power rock ballad with a chorus that seems to go on forever and features some amazing harmony vocals. Lyrically it is a message for all those serving their country overseas during this time of conflict.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'm Free</font> is probably the most contemporary song on offer. It is a heavier and darker rocker with an aggressive edge in the vocals and lead guitar. Less emphasis on the chorus here, which helps vary the record.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All The Pieces Falling</font> is an acoustic driven ballad and a more traditional sounding track. A heartfelt ballad that builds in tempo, while adding more and more soaring vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rock Bottom</font> steers the album back into uptempo hard rock territory, with a big groove and a big attitude. A bit of a throw-away rocker, but good fun nevertheless. The guitar riff reminds me of that true HOL sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Million Miles</font> is just brilliant. This is everything I love about James Christian and House Of Lords – uptempo and over the top. A cool guitar riff is thrown in and the song is extremely melodic during the verse and a big melodic anthem chorus. Love it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Your Eyes</font> continues the melodic bliss. This starts slow and remains mid-tempo and is a ballad of sorts, but a rock ballad with another big harmony filled chorus. A nice guitar solo just adds to the enjoyment.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ghost Of Time</font> makes the album even better again. Some moody keyboard parts and a smooth guitar riff start the song off before it turns uptempo, very melodic and very passionate. This rocker has a superb chorus and follows on perfectly from <font color="#ffff00">Million Miles</font> - the two songs remind me of the closing tracks on the band's killer debut - where every song was more melodic than the last and you couldn't believe one killer track just followed the other.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Generation</font> turns up the heat again with a grittier, dirtier rock sound along the same lines as <font color="#ffff00">I'm Free</font>, but with a bigger and better chorus and lots of drum rhythms. It makes for a nice circuit breaker between anthems, but not a personal favourite.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">S.O.S</font> is that other anthem which adds to the gloriousness of <font color="#ffff00">Million Miles</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Ghost Of Time</font>. Incredibly commercial and utterly brilliant – through the verse, the chorus and the big finale.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">World Upside Down</font> closes the album brilliantly on a somewhat reflective note. This track is a mid-tempo ballad with a little orchestral padding which lifts the melody beautifully. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> World Upside Down delivers everything that the traditional <b>House Of Lords</b> fan could want and then some. <b>James Christian</b> himself sounds on fire and delivers some passionate and fiery vocals not heard since <font color="#00ffff">Demons Down</font>.<br /> Something lacking from <font color="#00ffff">Power & The Myth</font> was big choruses and big vocals. This album has both. The backing vocals on this record in particular are immense, with James, wife <b>Robin Beck</b> and guest <b>Terry Brock</b> all supplying some huge vocals.<br /> This record is the very definition of melodic hard rock and for me blows the last album and even James' 2 solo records out of the water. Easily my second favourite album of the year thus far and I'm guessing the best of the year in many other fans eyes. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> House Of Lords<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sahara<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Demons Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="houseoflords-powerandthemyth.p3">The Power & The Myth</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World Upside Down</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Christian:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimi Bell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>BJ Zampa:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Kent:</b> Bass, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gregg Giuffria:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>House Of Lords</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Christian</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Mask Of Eternity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> These Are The Times <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Way To Heaven <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Field Of Shattered Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm Free<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Pieces Falling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock Bottom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Million Miles <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Eyes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ghost Of Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Generation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> S.O.S <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World Upside Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff0000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> <font color="#ffffff">Let Love In</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Warner Bros.</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/googoodolls-letlovein.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Glen Ballard</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42.26</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> World</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.googoodolls.com" target="new">Goo Goo Dolls</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>55%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">My first <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> record was <font color="#00ffff">A Boy Named Goo</font>. A later-comer to the band yes, but that album made an immediate impact and remains my favourite from the band and one of my all time favourite modern rock albums. Subsequent releases have been a little weaker each time, but remained enjoyable.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Dizzy Up The Girl</font> was solid, but didn't quite have the raw power of Goo. <font color="#00ffff">Gutterfower</font> got off to a flyer, but fell away towards the end.<br /> With each record the band has mellowed a little, but with <font color="#00ffff">Let Love In</font>, the move is more pronounced. The bands' success with mid and slow tempo songs has obviously influenced their thinking, with this a far more mature and mellow record.<br /> I love a mellow record as much, if not more, than the average melodic rock fan - fabulous for certain moods and emotions.<br /> But when it comes to the <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b>, I want an album full of their classic rocking sound. I want high-powered angst…I want a wall of melodic guitars and I want passion and urgency in the delivery of their anthems for the misunderstood.<br /> Not on this record. With the exception of perhaps the opening track, <font color="#00ffff">Let Love In</font> sees a band that has grown older and become all to comfortable.<br /> I know this record is going to have a lot of fans and I don't mind going against what may prove to be the majority…we shall see.<br /> But for me, the band has lost the intensity that drove albums like <font color="#00ffff">A Boy Named Goo</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Superstar Carwash</font>.<br /> The band doesn't abandon their trademark sound, it has merely been tempered and acoustic guitars now share equal billing with the plugged in variety.<br /> If you like the band in a mellower setting and have a preference for their ballads, this very slick record is going to appeal. The vocals of <b>Johhny Rzeznik</b> are certainly some of the more likeable and melodic of ay modern rock band.<br /> But, if like me, you prefer them in a heavier setting, prepare to be disappointed.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> The new single <font color="#ffff00">Stay With You</font> is an easy pick for an opener and the track to promote the album. It opens with all the passion, fanfare and fire you would expect of the band. This track is the closest to the band's most classic sound which really came to be on <font color="#00ffff">A Boy Named Goo</font>. A fantastic, guitar fuelled wall of melody with a killer chorus, this is destined to become another classic for the band.<br /> The title track <font color="#ffff00">Let Love In</font> has an interesting intro. A different approach for the band, with lots of production effects lying underneath a soft vocal before the song bursts to life with a very commercial melodic chorus. It's hard not to like the track, but it does suggest that the band are no longer an angst filled modern rock outfit, but rather a more comfortable 'happy' band!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Feel The Silence</font> mellows even further. We are on a slowing path here and this mid-tempo pop rocker has a feel good chorus, and replaces angst with a more mature sentimental emotion.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Better Days</font> is the song we all know from late last year. This very commercial modern rock ballad has a great chorus of course, but I was never fully sold on this track then and haven't changed my mind.<br /> About this stage I'm dying for a rocker. We is the GGD of old? Each track on the album has been mellower than the last and this climaxes with the ultra slow acoustic driven ballad <font color="#ffff00">Without You Here</font>. I'm not a fan of this track at all. The album has slowed to a crawl after an initially promising start.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Listen</font> sounds every bit a classic GGD rocker and could easily fit on any of the last 3 albums. Finally a great rock track, however, it does get knocked back a notch as bassist Robby is on lead vocals here. Thankfully it at least matches his input from the <font color="#00ffff">Boy Named Goo</font> album and is his best vocal track of the last couple of albums.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Give A Little Bit</font> is another track we have all heard already. The song was the one new studio track from the 2005 live album release and should not have been included on this album. We all own it already…move on…<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Can't Let It Go</font> is yet another acoustic driven mid-tempo pop rocker. It is an ok song, but again I'm searching for a killer rocker in amongst all the mid-tempo tracks.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">We'll Be Here (When You're Gone)</font> is a moody, modern rock track. It could have been darker and heavier still, but gathers a little fire towards the end.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Strange Love</font> features Robby again. He is back to his average raspy vocals and this doesn't impress as much as his first track.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Become</font> is yet another slow ballad and one without any redeeming virtues. I find it too plain and boring and is a repeat of what's already on offer elsewhere within the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Let Love In</font> sees a more mature and comfortable band at work. No longer feeling the angst that drove their earlier sound, the guys obviously feel more at home in a mellower setting. The orchestration and musical arrangements are of course near prefect and the sound is lush, but mellow or otherwise, I think the passion and urgency is missing from within the songs.<br /> Nice for an unobtrusive, safe, commercial modern rock record, but is that really what the <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> are all about? My hope for this genre now falls back to <b>Mitch Allen</b> for his solo debut. Please let it rock! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Goo Goo Dolls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hook Me Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Superstar Car Wash<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Boy Named Goo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dizzy Up The Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="googoodolls-ego.html">Ego, Opinion, Art & Commerce</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="googoodolls-gutterflower.p3">Gutterflower</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Love In</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Rzeznik:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Malinin:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robby Takac:</b> Bass, Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> - Gutterflower</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay With You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Love In <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel The Silence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better Days<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Without You Here<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Listen <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give A Little Bit<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Let It Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We'll Be Here (When You're Gone)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strange Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Become<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f0420f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Newman</b> <font color="#ffffff">Heaven Knows</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM130 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/newman-heavenknows.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Steve Newman</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56.24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Englishman <b>Steve Newman</b> returns in quick time for album number 5. I have always enjoyed Newman's albums and without doubt each one has been that little bit better than the one before.<br /> The last album <font color="#00ffff">Sign Of The Modern Times</font> was his best to date and left him with a lot of work to do to match or surpass it.<br /> Steve made a slight change of tact for this album. Everything except for the thumping drum beats are from Steve. A truly hands on effort this, with keyboards, guitars, bass and vocals all coming from the man himself.<br /> I'm not sure who mixed this album; whether it was Steve or someone else, but whoever is responsible did a cracking job at ensuring all the instruments get equal room to breathe and be heard clearly.<br /> The sound is classic melodic rock with that 80s influence snapping at its heals, but is in no way dated or routine. I'm pleased to say that <b>Newman</b> has eclipsed himself again and <font color="#00ffff">Heaven Knows</font> is easily his best album to date.<br /> The stars of this record – the songs themselves. These are the best set of songs to make a <b>Newman</b> record yet and are the most instant also.<br /> Normally I require a little time to grow into Steve's records, but on this occasion I only needed a second spin to be sold on the contents.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heaven Knows</font> is a cracking uptempo melodic rocker to get things underway, with a smooth chorus giving way to a lush chorus mixing keyboards with guitars and harmony vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> is a little more subtle, yet features a harder edge guitar riff and the chorus comes in two parts and is classic Newman.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Aint Gonna Cry Forever</font> is possibly the best Newman song ever! What a killer chorus! I just love it to death and think it is an example of the very best classic British AOR can offer.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Move On</font> is a little heavier and has a certain groove. It changes the pace of the album to date but still features another great chorus.<br /> The mid-tempo ballad <font color="#ffff00">The Way You Love Me</font> is another great example of how simple and familiar melodic rock can still be so effective when done with passion and quality.<br /> Following the mid-tempo ballad is this slower power ballad. <font color="#ffff00">Learning To Live</font> again features a monster chorus and again is one of Steve's best ballads.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Circle</font> picks the tempo up again to how the album opened. And yet again - another strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">This Time</font> has a big groove to it and some nice guitar parts. Not as strong a chorus here, but not close to being a filler either.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wait</font> takes a few listens to get to know and works well at this point of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Never Meant To Fall In Love</font> is a uptempo melodic rocker with a groovy verse and a straight AOR chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sport Of Kings</font> is a heavier and darker track that shows another side of Newman. A good chorus gets better with each listen.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">On Any Other Sunday</font> is a tribute to the victims of the 2005 Tsunami. This acoustic ballad closes the album on a strong, yet sentimental note. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Well, this ain't brain surgery. Stylistically, there's noting here that won't have already been heard before somewhere and this is not an album that pushes ay musical boundaries.<br /> What it is though, is a very fine example of classic style, 80s influenced British melodic rock and in my opinion, <b>Steve Newman's</b> best and most consistent effort yet! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Newman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="newman-onestepcloser.html">One Step Closer</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="newman-danceinthefire.html">Dance In The Fire</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="newman-signofthemoderntimes.p3">Sign Of The Modern Times</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Knows</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Newman:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitars & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob McEwan:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Newman</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Heartland</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Knows <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Aint Gonna Cry Forever <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Move On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way You Love Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Learning To Live <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Circle <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wait<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Meant To Fall In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sport Of Kings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On Any Other Sunday<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#e3c376" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> <font color="#ffffff">Essential Ballads</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD286 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/jeffscottsoto-theessentialballads.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jeff Scott Soto & Richard Mace</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 71.02</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.jeffscottsoto.com" target="new">JSS</a> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Well of course they are essential! Everything Soto is essential these days in my book and I expect Jeff's fans will line up accordingly for this release.<br /> The thing that I truly love about Jeff's music and his vocals is his passion. Whether he's rocking or crooning, there is an unmistakable passion involved that really helps the listener connect to him.<br /> You can really hear Jeff connect with the lyrics and with the song – nothing is just simply sung.<br /> In the case of this album it's Jeff the crooner in action. Gathering 13 of his finest ballads and 3 unreleased gems from the famous <b><i>Slam</i></b> sessions, the album is definitely one for established fans, but possibly also for those that remain curious about Jeff's work and are looking for a place to start.<br /> Some of Jeff's work can get pretty diverse, so this fairly straightforward collection of slow and mid-tempo melodic-friendly ballads is a brilliant intro to one side of this performer.<br /> Tracks here are garnered from Jeff's 3 solo albums and some EP cuts. Despite being a 16 track collection of ballads, the tempo is not limited to slow.<br /> You have brilliant traditional power ballads in the form of <font color="#ffff00">If This Is The End, Don't Wanna Say Goodbye</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Till The End Of Time</font>; the famous cover of <b>Journey's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Send Her My Love</font>; to smooth sultry numbers like <font color="#ffff00">This Ain't The Love, Still Be Lovin' You</font> and then there is the more diverse side of Jeff, as displayed on the soulful funk of <font color="#ffff00">4U</font> and the glorious acapella styled <font color="#ffff00">Sacred Eyes</font> and <font color="#ffff00">By Your Side</font> – two tracks I rate as some of Jeff's very finest vocal work.<br /> As for the new tracks – <font color="#ffff00">Through It All</font> is an acoustic driven pop ballad; <font color="#ffff00">Last Mistake</font> is a gem, a very commercial uptempo pop/rocker with a fabulous vocal and chorus and <font color="#ffff00">Another Try</font> follows that perfectly, delivering another fine catchy pop song. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> is the master of emotion. While is best known for being a rocker, there is no doubt that fans look forward to a couple of new ballads with each release and this compilation shows how diverse one artist can be on that angle alone.<br /> The addition of a few unreleased tracks – one of which is a real gem – and some EP cuts makes this a nicely crafted compilation and good all-round value. Did you expect me to say anything less?! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Parade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jeffscottsoto-prism.p3">Prism</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live At The Gods<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jeffscottsoto-lostinthetranslation.p3">Lost In The Translation</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Essential Ballads</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>JSS:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Howie Simon:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Papa:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Schutt:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Goran Elmquist:</b> Keyboards, Guitars</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> If This Is The End <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As I Do 2 U<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Holding On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Send Her My Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lonely Shade Of Blue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Ain't The Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Wanna Say Goodbye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 4U<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Be Loving U<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Till The End Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sacred Eyes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> By Your Side <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beginning 2 End<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Mistake <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Try<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808040" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fate</b> <font color="#ffffff">V</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-160 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/fate-v.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tommy Hansen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Danish rockers <b>Fate</b> have varied their line-up over the years and their comeback album <font color="#00ffff">V</font> features vocalist <b>Per Johansson</b> who was on board for the band's previous release <font color="#00ffff">Scratch N Sniff</font> (recently re-issued by <b>MTM</b>).<br /> The band has again hooked up with old producer <b>Tommy Hansen</b>, who has gone on to considerable production fame. He ensures this album sounds a million bucks. The sound is big, the guitar sound is right in your face and the mix is near perfect.<br /> The record has all the ingredients of a classic <b>Fate</b> record and an overall world-class production quality. However, to create a classic you need 2 more ingredients - great songs and a great lead vocal.<br /> This is where things get a little more complicated and where this album might cause some debate among fans.<br /> Firstly – the songs. I can't complain about this too much. I like what I hear and in keeping with the big production sound, the songs match in rock attitude. There are some big riffs on offer and some strong melodies and choruses.<br /> The opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Butterfly</font> is about as big as they come and the more restrained <font color="#ffff00">Everything About You</font> is catchy from the outset.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burned Child</font> delivers another strong melody in two parts and <font color="#ffff00">I'll Get By</font> is classic <b>Fate</b> in its melodic approach.<br /> The slower rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Life</font> offers another side of the band and delivers another huge vocal in the chorus, while <font color="#ffff00">Memories Won't Die</font> is a strong uptempo rocker.<br /> What I have avoided mentioning thus far is the album's main negative and no doubt, its biggest talking point. The vocals of <b>Per Johansson</b> are something fans are either going to accept or reject. His voice has certainly changed since his last appearance with the band. One could suggest that the years have not been kind to Per, but whatever the circumstance, his voice here is a lot rawer and raspier.<br /> He screams his way through a good portion of the album and that's going to turn some people off. What shouldn't be an issue now requires a warning – you will have accept and appreciate these harsh/raspy vocals in order to appreciate this album to its fullest. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I'm not so worried about the vocals as I wouldn't class myself as a die-hard fan of the band or Per's past appearance on the <font color="#00ffff">Scratch N Sniff</font> record. So for that reason I like what's on offer here. The strength of the songs and some good choruses and backing vocals help the overall enjoyment of the album, but coming back to those gruff vocals – they are definitely going to be a love 'em or hate 'em issue. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Matter Of Attitude<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cruisin' For A Bruisin'<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scratch N Sniff<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> V</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Per Johansson:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Søren Hoff:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Micke Kvist:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Steincke:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fate</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Butterfly <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven's Crying Too<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everything About You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ecstacy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nobody Loves You The Way I Do<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burned Child <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Get By <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Memories Won't Die<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Toxic<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fatal Force</b> <font color="#ffffff">Fatal Force</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-161 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/fatalforce.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Torben Enevoldsen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48.13</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Within the <b>Fate</b> review I stated that the band had the songs, but perhaps not the vocals. <b>Fatal Force</b> is the other way around.<br /> They sure as hell have the vocals – delivered with fire from the impeccably fabulous <b>Mats Levin</b> – but they perhaps do not quite have the song quality required to make this an essential purchase.<br /> The brainchild of prog-metal / instrumental guitarist <b>Torben Enevoldsen (Section A)</b>, Fatal Force was born out of the need to find a home for some more traditionally melodic hard rock songs.<br /> Torben performs all guitar, bass and keyboard duties and adds a fine support cast for his vision. <b>Mats Levin (Dogface/Treat/At Vance/Yngwie)</b> is perfect on vocals while man-of-the-hour <b>Daniel Flores</b> joins in on drums.<br /> Torben produces and supplies all music, while Levin supplies the lyrics.<br /> It might have been a good idea to include Levin a little further, as this album has just about everything a European melodic hard rock album should have – but the songs could have been stronger had they had the input of someone more used to working with commercial structure. Torben's penchant for instrumental works seems to work against him here.<br /> Opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Caveman</font> does have a strong chorus, but the flow of the song doesn't make it an easy journey to get there. The same could be said of <font color="#ffff00">Domino</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Far Away</font> and <font color="#ffff00">No Question</font> both feature similar tempos and style's – dark, contemporary rockers with slow pacing and restrained choruses.<br /> The mid-album songs <font color="#ffff00">Out Of Fuel</font> through <font color="#ffff00">Everyone</font> all rock with a similar pace – a ton of sweet guitar riffs and some authorative lead vocals, but all of these tracks suffer from the lack of memorable hooks. It's not until Insanity that a truly memorable chorus kicks in.<br /> The album closes with one of the better tracks on the album – the aggressive and powerful <font color="#ffff00">Eye To Eye</font>, which features a great vocal from Levin.<br /> <b>Tommy Hansen</b> is again called upon to produce and mix and as per usual delivers a product with a solid, even sound and big sonic impact. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is a good album with a great sound and some very good individual performances. The songs don't quite match the rest of the band's efforts, as they lack that little something that makes them stand out from the bunch. <b>Mats Levin</b> fans won't be disappointed with his vocals and there remains a very big potential for the band to gel as a unit and come back better and stronger. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fatal Force</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Levin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Torben Enevoldsen:</b> Guitars, Bass & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Flores:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Levin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Torben Enevoldsen</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Caveman <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Domino<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Far Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Question<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of Fuel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Know<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everyone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Insanity <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Only One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye To Eye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c6c1c8" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Oni Logan</b> <font color="#ffffff">Stranger In A Foreign Land</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LMC</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/onilogan-strangerinaforeignland.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Voss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.13</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Pop Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.onilogan.com" target="new">Oni Logan</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>79%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>72%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I'm quite the fan of <b>Oni Logan</b>. His work on the first <b>Lynch Mob</b> album was stupendous and I always thought his subsequent absence from the hard rock scene (apart from the very late released <b>Violet's Demise</b> opus) was nothing short of a crime.<br /> In 2006 Logan finally returns, albeit in a form few fans will expect.<br /> My first impression of this album was that it reminded me of <b>Europe</b> frontman <b>Joey Tempest's</b> first solo album and the path it took away from his usual fare.<br /> <b>Oni Logan</b> takes that same musical path – that stripped back, earthy mid-western sound – and continues on walking, right into southern rock and country. On the way he passes <b>Henry Lee Summer</b> and <b>Tom Petty</b> and perhaps just by-passes <b>John Cougar</b>.<br /> Where Oni concentrates on the mid-western theme he delivers some enjoyable pop/rock tracks that fans of that debut <b>Joey Tempest</b> album and easy going <b>Henry Lee Summer</b> will definitely appreciate.<br /> Musically speaking the acoustic guitar plays the dominant role, but this remains a full band exercise.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When Will You Hear Me, The Long Road</font> and the rockabilly <font color="#ffff00">Bring Back The Days</font> are all very fine songs. <font color="#ffff00">Stranger In A Foreign Land</font> continues the country tinged rock and one senses that Oni could perhaps be pulling off that all-too-hard transformation to stand alone solo artist.<br /> The ballad <font color="#ffff00">Blue Jean</font> is a duet with <b>Bekka Bramlett</b> and is pure country through and through and may be too far to the left of what fans want from Oni.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Monster In The Sea</font> returns to the mid-western feel, and <font color="#ffff00">Walking Through A Winterland</font> takes a slow, but haunting path.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Remember Hollywood</font> is a highlight of the last quarter of the album before another country ballad kills the closing moments. The album's impressive line-up includes <b>Michael Voss</b> and <b>Don Airey</b> and even a guest spot from <b>Steve Lukather</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not sure how many <b>Lynch Mob</b> fans are going to go for this. It's a long long way from the <font color="#00ffff">Wicked Sensation</font> album and even further from <b>Violet's Demise</b>. But in its own right, it is a solid record that is musically honest to a certain vision. Oni has clearly chosen a musical path to follow and he does that with integrity. Whether his fans choose to follow is a different issue. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Lynch Mob<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Violets Demise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stranger In A Foreign Land</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Oni Logan:</b> Vocals, Acoustic Guitars, Harp, Vocoder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Voss & Martin Hutch:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bertram Engel:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eda Miles:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Oni Logan</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Tempest</b> - A Place To Call Home</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> When Will You Hear Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Long Road <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring Back The Days <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stranger In A Foreign Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Jean<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Monster In The Sea<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walking Through A Winterland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damaged<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Part Of Town<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Remember Hollywood <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Foolish Minds<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#e3c875" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Wig Wam</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wigwamania</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Music Business</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/wigwam-wigwamania.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Wig Wam</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.wigwam.no" target="new">Wig Wam</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>97%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Let's be honest – the guys look pretty freeking bad and their image definitely plays on the whole taking-the-mickey out of the genre they represent. These guys are walking the thin line between tribute and parody that <b>The Darkness</b> also treads.<br /> Where <b>Wig Wam</b> gets it right over <b>The Darkness</b> is that they don't try and take the piss on every track. Yes, they have a shitload of fun, but there are serious moments too.<br /> And the songwriting is nothing short of fantastic – inspired by the very best moments of an era now past, with the production sound and energy of today's technology.<br /> And <b>Wig Wam</b> don't have a bloody annoying vocalist who doesn't know how much is too much.<br /> These guys are a class act and the performances on this record better their debut in every way - better vocals, better hooks and melodies, bigger backing vocals and a collection of very memorable songs.<br /> Anyone that owns anything by <b>Poison, Kiss</b> or even early <b>Van Halen</b> needs to check these guys out – if you haven't already been converted.<br /> Featuring a classic guitar riff, big chorus and huge harmonies, <font color="#ffff00">Rock My Ride</font> opens the album in full flight.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Slave To Your Love</font> is even bigger. Despite having an acoustic verse, the chorus is just massive and the hook instant. <font color="#ffff00">Gonna Get You Someday</font> simply continues the run of uptempo rock anthems.<br /> The big rocking power ballad <font color="#ffff00">Bygone Zone</font> sounds like classic <b>Mitch Malloy</b> from his debut album, especially in the lead vocal and layered harmonies.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dare Devil Heat</font> features another guitar fuelled, over the top harmony filled chorus. It is at this point you simply have to admire the production budget and the sounds emanating from the speakers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Kill My Rock 'N' Roll</font> features a chorus <b>Kiss</b> would have been proud to call their own at any stage during the 80s. Instrumental <font color="#ffff00">The Riddle</font> slows the albums rampant pace, but features some amazing shredding guitar fans will eat up.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">At The End Of The Day</font> is a more restrained and mellow ballad, which is probably a good thing for the overall pacing of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A R 'N' R Girl Like You</font> gets things back into party mode. Poison take note – this is how it's done in 2006!<br /> Rockers <font color="#ffff00">Can't Get Her (Out Of My Bed)</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Breaking All The Rules</font> continue the tongue in cheek lyrics and none-too-serious theme of the record. Not as groovy as the front half of the album, but some great guitar work make these worthy of their inclusion. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Wig Wam</b> do have that 'look at me' image, but thankfully their music has far more depth and the songs speak for themselves. This album has an amazing sound that any major label would be proud of and fans of late 80s hard rocking anthems are going to be blown away by the consistency of this collection of good fun rockers and blazing guitar fueled anthems.<br /> One album that is destined to feature in many year-end 'best of' lists. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Hard To Be A Rock N Roller<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wigwamania</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glam:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Teeny:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sporty:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Flash:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Wig Wam</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Poison, Kiss</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kick Ass Good Times RNR!</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Wig Wamania (Intro)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock My Ride <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slave To Your Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gonna Get You Someday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bygone Zone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dare Devil Heat <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kill My Rock 'N' Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Riddle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> At The End Of The Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A R 'N' R Girl Like You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Get Her (Out Of My Bed)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breaking All The Rules<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#05a5da" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kiske</b> <font color="#ffffff">Kiske</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD285 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/michaelkiske-kiske.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Kiske</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.23</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>63%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>45%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Former Helloween vocalist <b>Michael Kiske</b> was the voice behind one of 2005's best melodic hard rock records in <b>Place Vendome</b>. However good that album was, he was quick to point out that he wanted an even more melodic record.<br /> Once that statement was made, it was clear that his solo album would be something different from the norm.<br /> How different though caught me by surprise. Kiske has gone to the extreme left of where you would normally find him musically speaking.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Kiske</font> the album is a collection of 11 acoustic pop songs, may stripped back to just a guitar and vocal and others featuring a full band arrangement, albeit in a very soft and subtle setting.<br /> This is an extremely slow paced album and an incredibly hard one to sit through from start to finish unless you are seriously in the mood for some soul searching and a very mellow record.<br /> To be brutally honest, I can't predict how many of Kiske's regular fanbase is going to appreciate this.<br /> In his favor, <b>Michael Kiske</b> has an extremely likable voice – in just about any setting – but here the repetitive tempo and laid back delivery of the songs may test some of his fanbase.<br /> In places Kiske's ability to deliver a good melody and memorable hook shine through – <font color="#ffff00">Fed By Stones, Knew I Would</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Hearts Are Free</font> are the best examples on offer here.<br /> On other occasions such as on <font color="#ffff00">Kings Fall</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Sing My Song</font>, the pace is so painstakingly slow that I cannot listen to them all the way through. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There is no doubt that some will love this album. There is a raw emotion to Kiske's vocals here and it would be unfair of me to not state that it is a record made with a lot of soul and conviction on his part. But anyone looking for a glorious repeat of the <b>Place Vendome</b> album should rather wait for a sequal to that project. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Instant Clarity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kiske</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Kiske:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sandro Giampietro:</b> Solo Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Karsten Nagel:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fontaine Burnett:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Kiske</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fed By Stones <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All-Solutions<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Knew I Would <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kings Fall<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hearts Are Free <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The King Of It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sing My Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silently Craving<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Truly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Painted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sad As The World<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#008080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Foreigner</b> <font color="#ffffff">Extended Versions</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BMG</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/foreigner-extendedversions.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Foreigner</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 66.38</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.foreigneronline.com" target="new">Foreigner</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>--</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Guitarist and band co-founder <b>Mick Jones</b> took a bold decision to step out with <b>Foreigner</b> sans <b>Lou Gramm</b> for a second time. The first time he took vocalist <b>Johnny Edwards</b> along for the ride with the album <font color="#00ffff">Unusual Heat</font> their only collaboration. Although a solid record it was a commercial failure, but remains a fan favourite with some.<br /> In 2005 Mick again took to the stage without Lou and without a line-up that had remained stable for some years.<br /> In its place is a new kick-ass rock n roll line-up that features <b>Jeff Pilson (Dokken), Jason Bonham (Bonham, Virginia Wolf, UFO)</b> and on vocals, the great <b>Kelly Hansen (Hurricane, Unruly Child)</b>. Long time keyboard player <b>Jeff Jacobs</b> remains as does guitarist/saxophonist <b>Tom Gimbel</b>.<br /> Their first outing as a band is a new live album. Unfortunately the set is being released under the unreliable and patchy brand name <font color="#00ffff">Extended Versions</font>, which really has f-all to do with the description of a live concert and the sterile packaging does the album no favors whatsoever.<br /> A European release with much improved artwork and 2 extra tracks is being released under the <font color="#00ffff">Live In 05</font> tag. Look for that instead.<br /> But let us not reflect on the minor details – how do the guys sound?<br /> Bloody great is the answer. The new line-up sounds as well oiled and as comfortable as you could wish for.<br /> While the new half of the line-up is better known for their hard rocking exploits, the guys handle the <b>Foreigner</b> material with surprising delicacy. What I'm trying to say here is that the guys turn down their metal instincts to bring some very fine pop/rock attitude to the old classics, just as they have been played all these years.<br /> They rock when required and otherwise stick to faithful and rather slick renditions that sound as if they have been playing the tunes for years. You would expect nothing else from such a pro line-up.<br /> Most impressive is vocalist <b>Kelly Hansen</b>. He sounds totally at home singing this material and while at first you strain to compare his vocals to those you are used to hearing, his flawless performance soon allows you to relax and enjoy the individual aspects and new energy he brings to the songs.<br /> The band run through a short set list of the classics; <font color="#ffff00">Cold As Ice, Dirty White Boy, Feels Like The First Time</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Urgent</font> all rock beautifully and on the slower numbers <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For A Girl Like You</font> and the epic <font color="#ffff00">I Want To Know What Love Is</font>, Hansen really blows away the crowd.<br /> On the harder rocking <font color="#ffff00">Jukebox Hero</font>, the band flies and breaks into a <b>Led Zeppelin</b> medley, no doubt giving Bonham his time to shine.<br /> Closing the set is <font color="#ffff00">Hot Blooded</font>, which runs some 8 minutes plus featuring plenty of ripping guitar work.<br /> Also of note is the quality of the band's harmony vocals throughout. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> One for both long time fans of <b>Foreigner</b> curious about the new line-up and unable to see the band live for yourself and also for fans of <b>Kelly Hansen</b>. As much as I love <b>Lou Gramm</b> and had a healthy suspicion of a new line-up, I'm really pleased to hear the results here and look forward to a new studio album next year. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Recent Discography</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Classic Hits Live<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anthology<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mr Moonlight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Complete Greatest Hits<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Extended Versions</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kelly Hansen:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mick Jones:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Bonham:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Pilson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Jacobs:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tom Gimbel:</b> Guitars, Saxaphone</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Foreigner</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kelly Hansen</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Head Games <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold As Ice <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting For A Girl Like You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty White Boy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Starrider<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feels Like the First Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Urgent<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jukebox Hero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Want To Know What Love Is <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot Blooded <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#bb1e1e" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Relapsed</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into A Former State</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-163 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/relapsed-intoaformerstate.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Relapsed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.42 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Caught In The Act</b> got two cool albums under their belt before ditching the name and going with <b>Guild Of Ages</b>. They got even cooler then, with 3 more albums – 2 of which are near classics.<br /> All 5 albums were produced by <b>Axe's Bobby Barth</b> and all sounded sonically impressive. Then they disappeared….Five years later they are back under moniker number 3.<br /> <b>Relapsed</b> close in on the sound of their first two albums – those released under the <b>Caught In The Act</b> name. The guys still have attitude, and they still have style. And they still know how to write some great rock songs.<br /> They always had this unique vibe and I'm pleased to say that style is retained here. What is missing is that knockout production.<br /> Without <b>Bobby Barth</b> for the first time, the band clearly drops a few notches as far as sound quality.<br /> The vocals of frontman <b>Danny Martinez</b> sounds quite raw and the backing vocals aren't nearly as big as the Barth produced albums. I'm also not sure about the guitar sound – perhaps a little hollow.<br /> This is a solid album, but would have been even better with a production job to rival those given to <b>Guild Of Ages</b>.<br /> Ok, that aside, some fine songs here and as stated – plenty of American rock n roll attitude. I think Barth also brought out the best of these guys with their writing, but on their own there are still some new highlights.<br /> While <font color="#ffff00">Welcome To My Life</font> is a pretty safe opening mid-tempo rocker, things get interesting with the feistier <font color="#ffff00">End Of The Line</font> and the angry <font color="#ffff00">Undone</font>.<br /> The commercial rocker <font color="#ffff00">The Other Half</font> has a good hook, but could have used some bigger backing vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mercy Pays The Dept</font> is another great track and typical of the attitude this band has.<br /> The band takes on the <b>Queen</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">I Want It All</font> and despite good intentions fall short due to the lack of impact.<br /> The fine ballad <font color="#ffff00">Everyday</font> and the commercial <font color="#ffff00">Somewhere We Belong</font> close the album on the same good note as it started. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Easily recommendable to fans of <b>Caught In The Act</b> and <b>Guild Of Ages</b>, but to those unfamiliar with the band, I'd say checkout the very worthwhile back catalogue first. I wouldn't rate this in their top 3 for strength or consistency, but it is good to hear the guys back in action.<br /> Now, if only they could hook up with <b>Bobby Barth</b> again and get that production quality of the GOA material back. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Act 1<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heat Of Emotion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Citadel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vox Dominatas<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Into A Former State</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danny Martinez:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brian Mesa:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Marone:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Marone:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>CITA & Guild Of Ages</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Guild Of Ages</b> - One</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To My Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of The Line <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Undone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Other Side<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mercy Pays The Debt <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All In All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Generation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Want It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alex<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everyday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Somewhere We Belong <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0080ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Akira Kajiyama + Joe Lynn Turner</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Fire Without Flame</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00024 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/akirakajiyama-firewithoutflame.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Akira Kajiyama</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 26</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>76%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I'm glad to see that <b>AOR Heaven</b> has picked this up for Europen release as fans of <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> deserve to have access to this without the exorbitant Japanese import price.<br /> And secondly – while this is an enjoyable record – I don't think it's a classic worthy of that Japanese price tag.<br /> So, the European release is a much better proposition and is something that all JLT fans should pick up.<br /> Joe is definitely the key to the enjoyment of this record. He supplies much of the album's music – all lyrics and melodies and Akira supplies the musical backing and structure.<br /> The music is of a style JLT fans will certainly be comfortable with – very commercial, 80s influenced melodic rock.<br /> Akira previously played with Joe and <b>Glenn Hughes</b> live with <b>HTP</b>, so he knows Joe's vocal moves well and therefore this record covers a little of everything we know Joe for – melodic rock, HTP style blues and some classic hard rock.<br /> The albums rocks in places – the opening track <font color="#ffff00">One Day Away, Looking For Trouble, Down & Dirty</font> the Rainbowesque double time pace of <font color="#ffff00">Survival</font>; then there are also a couple of fine ballads in <font color="#ffff00">Heart Against Heart</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Forever Changed</font> and a mid-tempo melodic rocker in the title track <font color="#ffff00">Fire Without Flame</font>.<br /> Of course there is a little showcase for the blues with <font color="#ffff00">Bad Feeling</font> and the boogie of <font color="#ffff00">License To Kill</font>.<br /> The one thing I don't like about the record is the guitar tone. I don't think it does the material justice and sounds pretty hollow in places. When the record is more or less a solo album for a well-known guitarist, it might be a good idea to ensure that part of the record sounds as good as is possible. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is an enjoyable album that fans of <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> will definitely appreciate. I don't see any newcomers being converted by what's on offer, which is nothing new. But there are some strong songs within and Joe's vocal performance is certainly up to his usual high caliber. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire Without Flame</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Lynn Turner:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Akira Kajiyama:</b> All Instruments</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>HTP</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> One Day Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire Without Flame<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Survival <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Against Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of The Line<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever Changed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Feeling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Looking For Trouble <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down And Dirty<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> License To Kill<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slow Burn<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pavic</b> <font color="#ffffff">Taste Some Liberty</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Anteo Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ATR 105-2 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/pavic-tastesomeliberty.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Marko Pavic & Chris Catena</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55.37</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.markopavic.com" target="new">Marko Pavic</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">While <b>Chris Catena</b> fans wait patiently for the Italian rocker's next album, you can indulge in the debut from Catena's mate <b>Marko Pavic</b>.<br /> The <b>Pavic</b> album is of a similar breed to Chris' own album and features a slew of special guests and of course Chris on lead vocals.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Taste Some Liberty</font> is a melodic hard rock record with a strong European/Italian feel, especially in the accented delivery of the lead vocals.<br /> It is a melodic rock record without being dated, or sounding too modern, but features influences from both sides. The guys deliver a fine sounding record – for an indie release this features a great production and a nice clear vocal/guitar sound.<br /> Plenty of tricks on offer here – solos, riffing, some bluesy organ and at times over the top lead vocals.<br /> The only place I can spot room for improvement is with the song's choruses. The groove is there, they playing and production is there, but some better structured and more memorable choruses would go a long way to making this band the complete package for fans of European melodic rock.<br /> A cover of <b>Supertramp's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Logical Song</font> may not be for all, but it shows the guys are not afraid to at least be brave in their musical endeavors.<br /> Guests on the album include: Kee Marcello (Europe, K2), Tony Franklin (Blue Murder, Whitesnake), Vitalij Kuprij (Artension, Ring Of Fire), Daniel Flores (Xsavior, Mind's Eye), Vivien Lalu (Lalu), Adolfo Ramundo, Jimmy Bax, Sandro Manicone, Patrizio Izzo, Davide Matera, Chris Heaven. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is probably one for fans of European melodic hard rock. Not sure American fans will dig this as much, unless you are into the accented vocals. Musically it is impressive and boasts a strong cast of support staff. The need for more attention to some stronger choruses the only real downside. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Taste Some Liberty</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Catena:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marko Pavic:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Flores:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Aleks Ferrara:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lorenzo Antonelli:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Catena</b> - Freak Out!</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Restless Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Summer Of '98<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Give Up On Your Dreams <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Logical Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Once<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desperate Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Convicted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Is She Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sail With Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Death Alley Driver<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#b83434" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Marshall</b> <font color="#ffffff">Pages From The Past: Tome 1</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Dist.</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/marshall-pagesfromthepast.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>38%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>20%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>55%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is an indie Metal release, distributed by Frontiers in Europe. I can see why it is indie. I can't see any label I know of signing this.<br /> The guys aren't necessarily bad….well, I think it's pretty bad….but they just don't know what style to stick to. This is their third studio album and one would have thought they would have carved out a niche by now.<br /> Power metal…progressive metal….speed metal….symphonic….bloody hell, its all here and that's only in the first two tracks!<br /> Then there's the lead vocals – sung a first, then spoken word vocals, then some screaming and even a dose of black metal shouting for good measure. And is that a <b>Evanescence</b> style female lead in the background?<br /> Wow, too much of everything leaves the listener confused and the band without any direction.<br /> In a word – messy. In another – awful. But it might appeal to someone out there….</font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#408080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Frontline</b> <font color="#ffffff">Circles</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00023 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/frontline-circles.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Robby Böbel</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.32</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Germany's <b>Frontline</b> are back – ever reliable, with a new album and a tougher sound. Well, not much tougher – this is a direct follow-on from the band's last album <font color="#00ffff">Seventh Sign</font>.<br /> Yes, this is a little heavier and features a bigger guitar crunch, but let's be honest. All <b>Frontline</b> albums sound pretty similar and this is no different.<br /> There is a certain comfort felt when playing a <b>Frontline</b> record. You know what's coming and still it remains ever enjoyable due to the quality of what's on offer.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Circles</font> sees the band maintain their high standards – a tight production, big sound and plenty of layers of guitars going back and forth. And then there are those vocals! Even lead singer <b>Stephan Kämmerer</b> has toughened up his delivery here, but the style is unmistakable.<br /> His Perry-like AOR vocals are, as usual, drenched in layers of harmony vocals and compliment the music perfectly. I have never found any <b>Frontline</b> album to be an instant smash – rather the albums grow on you over time and that is again the case here.<br /> Where a first nothing stood out, I now can't wait to hear the chorus for the opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">No One</font>, or the more aggressive lick of <font color="#ffff00">I Give You The Rest</font> and the heavy AOR angst of <font color="#ffff00">Did You Ever (Taste The Pain)</font>.<br /> Also impressing are the fast paced <font color="#ffff00">Say What You Have To Say</font> and the rocker <font color="#ffff00">Don't Run Away</font>, which probably has the best chorus of the album. The album closes with another two strong melodic rockers, making this one of my preferred albums from the guys to date. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I'll rate it close to the last album and as far as the future, all the band needs to do to get even better is tighten up those choruses a little – give them a little more power such as on <font color="#ffff00">Don't Run Away</font> and <font color="#ffff00">No One</font>. One for all fans of the band and European melodic rock. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> State Of Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Two Faced<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heroes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="frontline-rightattitude.html">Right Attitude</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="frontline-againsttheworld.html">Against The World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="frontline-almostunreleased.html">Almost Unreleased</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="frontline-theseventhsign.p3">The Seventh Sign</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Circles</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stephan Kämmerer:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robby Boebel:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rami Ali:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thomas Bauer:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frontline</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> No One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Give You The Rest <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Did You Ever (Taste The Pain) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Say, What You Have To Say <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Run Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hunter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Into Deep<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Is You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Vision<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Wetton / Downes</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">Icon: Acoustic TV Broadcast</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD277 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/wettondownes-acoustic-cd.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John Wetton & Geoff Downes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56.17</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="130"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="60"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="4"><b>DVD: 35%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">For the life of me, I cannot recall a more boring live release than this. I mean no disrespect for the great talents involved, but I have heard better from them.<br /> I liked the <font color="#00ffff">Icon</font> release a great deal and I have a lot of time for Asia in general. But this stripped back performance is simply too much to bare.<br /> The music from the Icon album was already easy listening and <b>Asia</b> themselves aren't known for their rocking out. So to strip the songs back and slow them down even further risks sending the listener into a coma.<br /> At times I felt Geoff and John were heading that way themselves.<br /> Sure the quality of tracks like the legendary <b>Asia</b> classics <font color="#ffff00">Heat Of The Moment</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Voice Of America</font> shine through, as do the new Icon tracks <font color="#ffff00">Let Me Go</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I Stand Alone</font>, but that is simply not enough to make this an essential purchase for anyone.<br /> I feel the guys are going through the motions here and while the CD might be an easy listening piece, the <b>DVD</b> release is even worse.<br /> It is utterly without life and it is extremely hard work watching <b>John Wetton</b> look bored out of his mind, while <b>Geoff Downes</b> sits there trying to look slightly more animated.<br /> Making a mockery of this 'live setting' is the fact there is no way the audio playing is from the vision being watched. There isn't even a microphone in sight! Hilarious!<br /> The piped in backing vocals don't match the acoustic performance and Wetton doesn't look at all like he is putting any effort into singing, he is barely able to keep himself awake. Some of the backing vocal parts look so fake when Wetton tried to look like he is signing them.<br /> Asia fans are an intelligent bunch; I don't see any of them being impressed by this affair. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Acoustic TV Broadcast</font> may have been filmed, but this is very much a studio affair and watching the DVD only confirms this. The lack of variety in pace and emotion does this duo no favors. It really lacks the spark expected of a live performance – unplugged or otherwise.<br /> The audio volume on the CD is about 3 levels above the DVD and the reworked running order is a vain attempt to keep the listener's attention.<br /> Do not, whatever you do, play this CD in the car while driving. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="wettondownes-icon.p3">Icon</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Acoustic TV Broadcast</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Wetton:</b> Vocals & Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Mitchell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Christey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Geoffrey Downes:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hugh McDowell:</b> Cello</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Asia</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Heat Of The Moment <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voice Of America<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> God Walks With Us<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sole Survivor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Meet Me At Midnight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Smile Has Left Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Lay Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Open Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only Time Will Tell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The End<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> There In Your Bed<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Giuntini Project</b> <font color="#ffffff">III</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD274 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/giuntiniproject-3.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Dario Mollo</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58.49 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> European Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Giuntini Project</b> <font color="#00ffff">3</font> is the brainchild of Italian guitarist <b>Aldo Giuntini</b> and follows the same format as <b>GP2</b> – both featuring lead vocalist <b>Tony Martin</b>.<br /> As with most things <b>Tony Martin</b> appears on, this is straight ahead European hard rock with a touch of Sabbath influenced riffing, not to mention a little <b>Rainbow</b> and the many imitators that followed.<br /> Giuntini is a fine guitarist and he mixes the need for big riffs and flashy solos with a good balance. He also mixes up the tempo of the songs – from the double time opener <font color="#ffff00">Gold Digger</font>, to the Sabbath like slow intensity of <font color="#ffff00">Que Es La Vida</font> back to the frantic <font color="#ffff00">Fools Paradise</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Disfunctional Kid</font>.<br /> Martin puts in a solid performance and his appearance raises the credibility of the whole album a notch or two.<br /> It is all very good, but it is also all very familiar. Production comes courtesy of <b>Dario Mollo</b> of <b>The Cage</b> fame. The same guitarist that has featured <b>Tony Martin</b> on his own past 2 releases. The two <b>Cage</b> and <b>Giuntini Project</b> releases all pair-off quite easily and there is not a lot of musical difference between the four albums.<br /> That's great if you enjoyed those – more to like here. But at the same time, this isn't anything to challenge the mold offered on past releases. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is a solid European melodic hard rock album with a Sabbath theme running through the songs. <b>Tony Martin</b> sounds great and the production is very good. The only thing going against the release is the fact that it has all been heard before – from the same people involved right here! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> I<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> III</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Martin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Aldo Giuntini:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ezio Secomandi:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fulvio Gaslini:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dario Patti:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Martin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Cage</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Cage</b> - <a href="thecage2.p3">2</a></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Gold Digger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not Connected<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Que Es La Vida <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Early Warning <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fool Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tutmosis Iv – Tarantula<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anno Mundi (The Vision)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Disfunctional Kid <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mourning Star<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Trouble Just Keeps Coming<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Closest Thing To Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Memories In The Sand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tarot Warrior<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#4268a8" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mind's Eye</b> <font color="#ffffff">Walking On H2O</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Lion Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LMC162 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mindseye-walkingonh2o.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Daniel Flores</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 75.02 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressve Melodic Rock/AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.lionmusic.com" target="new">Lion Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">In some ways, <b>Mind's Eye</b> reminds me of <b>Platitude</b>, recently reviewed here. They both hail from Sweden and both produce progressive rock with strong melodic influences driving the material. And both have very good and very likable lead singers.<br /> What interests me here is the list of influences the band lists. <b>Rush, Yes, ELO, Toto</b> and <b>Genesis</b> to name a few.<br /> I think those names sum up what is on offer here – good commercial melodic rock/AOR, but with a challenging and intelligent progressive twist.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Walking On H2O</font> is a concept album on centering on human evolution, science, religion, unexplained phenomena, alien abduction, deadly virus, earth pollution, loyalty, marriage and immortality. Kinda heavy, eh?<br /> Well, the subject matter and the lyrical content may be super intense, but the music remains very accessible and filled with plenty of hooks to hang your ears on.<br /> A lot of this credit must go to lead vocalist <b>Andreas Novak</b> – the man behind the very cool Novak solo release of a year or so back. His voice is so likeable and the layers of melody backing him make it almost impossible not to get drawn into the music.<br /> <b>Daniel Flores</b> has used his busy schedule to hone his skills and is all over this record with his keyboard flurries and drum rhythms. Guitarist/bassist <b>Johan Niemann</b> supplies plenty of riffing for the technically minded, and even though keyboards and vocals dominate, he knows how to anchor the song with a strong riff.<br /> Opening with the very commercial <font color="#ffff00">A Rabbit In The Hat</font>, the band challenges the listener with the more complex <font color="#ffff00">Equally Immortal</font> before getting more commercial again on the very likable <font color="#ffff00">Mrs. Clair Voyance</font>.<br /> The double header of <font color="#ffff00">Sahara In An Hourglass</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Out Of My System</font> put the album into orbit as far as melodies and hooks.<br /> After this point the band gets a little more complex and progressive and you have to work more at getting to know the songs.<br /> Production is smooth and gives the listener no reason to complain and the band's own individual performances should see their names bandied around in the same context as their peers. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Having a more melodic half vs a more complex half seems to work well for this album.<br /> Their influences of Rush, Toto and Yes all shine through, but they also have their own European feel, all packaged into a While perhaps still not for everybody, the album does offer some truly great melodic hooks and would make a nice change of pace for those looking to be a little more challenged by their music, should the mood fit. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Into the Unknown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting For The Tide<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Work Of Art<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waking On H2O</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Novak:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johan Niemann:</b> Guitars / Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Flores:</b> Drums / Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Novak</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Platitude</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mind's Eye</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Novak</b> - Forever Endeavor</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Earth - The Movie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Rabbit In The Hat <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Equally Immortal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mrs. Clair Voyance <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sahara In An Hourglass <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of My System <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Umbrellas Under The Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sacred Rules<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Nazca Lines <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flight Of The An.Unna.Ki<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heal My Karma<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When I Whisper<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Poseidon Says<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#3a4e9a" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Survivor</b> <font color="#ffffff">Reach</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD282 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/survivor-reach.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Survivor</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.survivormusic.com" target="new">Survivor</a> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There will be certain euphoria from a large section of the <b>Survivor</b> fan base that this album has finally seen the light of day.<br /> I'm sure that euphoria will see some amazing adjectives bandied about to describe the album's brilliance. Once the fanfare has resided, a more realistic evaluation of the album might be possible. Having lived with this album for several weeks now, I think I can offer a balanced review.<br /> It really should be no surprise that <font color="#00ffff">Reach</font> has a different vibe than the bands past work and their last studio album <font color="#00ffff">Too Hot To Sleep</font>. After all, that album came some 18 years ago and I think since then the band has grown and matured into a new found comfort that is reflected on this album.<br /> <b>Survivor</b> fans have grown up too and I think there will definitely be some that find this album a perfect fit for them in this day and age.<br /> I also think that there will be another section of fans that think the band has lost their rock edge and find this album a little too mellow overall. Personally I think this is a mood record. If the record fits the mood of the listener at the time, then it has a great deal to offer.<br /> For the most part, I don't think <font color="#00ffff">Reach</font> has the same vibe as past <b>Survivor</b> records. This is something new. I think it requires a slight change of outlook by the listener to get the most out of it. If you are looking to rock, then perhaps this is not the right record for the moment.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Reach</font> finds <b>Survivor</b> in a mellower mood and a lot more reflective. It is a different mood than past records and sees the band trying a couple of new tricks, such as allowing guitarist <b>Frankie Sullivan</b> a chance at lead vocals and featuring acoustic guitars more prominently than I can ever recall.<br /> I think the material featured on the record is largely pretty good and will keep <b>Survivor</b> fans happy, but I do think there are a couple of key areas that if changed, could have made an even better record.<br /> A couple of things don't go <b>Survivor's</b> way here. The songs themselves are mostly impressive and stand up in their own right. But put them together in the scheme of an album and the similarities in mid-tempo pacing becomes obvious and I also don't think the track sequencing is quite right.<br /> Also going against the guys here is the fact they have one of the strongest back catalogue's in melodic rock history. I say that as a huge compliment, but at the same time, how many artists could really satisfy the demand and expectation for a new album after an 18 year wait, given the strength of past records?<br /> A near impossible task for just about any band, but the guys put in their best effort.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Reach</font> sets the album up for a flying start - a mid-tempo melodic rocker with a classic <b>Survivor</b> verse which sees the great <b>Jimi Jamison</b> controlling the song's melody with his voice. The chorus is instantly memorable, but I could imagine it flying just a little higher had there been more backing vocals. A nice balance of keyboards and acoustic and electric guitars drives the song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fire Makes Steel</font> sees Frankie switch to a harder edge guitar sound and a darker overall mood. This is one of the more famous Survivor cuts from the early 90s sessions.<br /> It has aged pretty well and fits in fine here, offering a flurry of guitars and another strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nevertheless</font> changes the tempo yet again – this time back to the same vibe as the opening track, but rather with <b>Frankie Sullivan</b> on lead vocal.<br /> Frankie's voice isn't as strong as Jimi's and is perhaps an octave higher. The song itself is very pleasant. Easy on the ears, strong chorus and a nice melodic hook. I'm not sure however, that its position within the album is quite right and I would have dropped it down a couple of places.<br /> Jimi returns for what is the first of two very strong ballads. <font color="#ffff00">Seconds Away</font> isn't a typical Survivor power ballad and nor is the track that follows <font color="#ffff00">One More Chance</font>.<br /> Both are sultry and moody ballads with strong sentimental lyrics and emotional vocals.<br /> Jimi's voice alters a little here – I think he has concentrated on capturing the emotional aspect of the song rather than perfecting a usually smooth vocal. While rough around the edges, <font color="#ffff00">One More Chance</font> certainly gets my attention as a very fine ballad.<br /> For the first few listens I classed the next track <font color="#ffff00">Gimmie The Word</font> as another slow track. And while the album could have definitely benefited from a more uptemo number in this slot, the track itself isn't a ballad. Rather, it is a subtle rocker with a strong lead guitar presence, but a restrained tempo and a dark and moody vibe. Keyboards are right back in the mix and Jimi's voice is again raspier and less polished than we have come to expect from him.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Rhythm Of Your Heart</font> is probably my biggest disappointment of the album. It's a fine ballad in itself, but what we really needed at this point was a big rocker and let's be honest – how many people out there already have this track in demo form?<br /> Coming from Jimi's own solo album sessions in 1999, the track is ok, but if it wasn't considered for Jimi's <font color="#00ffff">Empires</font> album – why now?<br /> At this point I am really hanging for a rocker, but it doesn't come in an expected form. Rather <font color="#ffff00">I Don't</font> represents how <b>Survivor</b> has changed in 2006.<br /> This track could have been a hard rocker with an anthem chorus, but instead it is driven by a flurry of acoustic guitars – which do sound impressive – along with a more restrained and moody vocal. The chorus and tempo rise, but not as far as they might have done on the past. It's as if the band keep a lid on things going too over the top. They should have let things go some more.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Half Of My Heart</font> is yet another ballad. This time it's a mid-tempo pop ballad and again signifies a mellower new approach from the band. A fine ballad with some soulful guitar playing, I do think some of the impact is lost due to the amount of ballads featured.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Talkin' 'Bout Love</font> is the surprise of the album for me. This track typifies everything I love about <b>Survivor</b> – a nice uptempo pace, a melodic verse, bridge then a monster chorus with some big harmony vocals.<br /> The twist here is that it's <b>Frankie Sullivan</b> on lead vocals. This blows his earlier track away and really is a much needed boost of adrenalin for the record. A couple more tracks like this and the opening track would have made a world of difference for those missing the old days.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Don't Give Up</font> keeps the tempo moving, which is a definite plus. Jimi's back in control and delivers a good vocal. The chorus may not be as instant as the last song or the title track, but it does offer a taste of classic style Survivor.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Home</font> closes out the album and yes, it's another very slow song. <font color="#ffff00">Home</font> is a sentimental track without a big chorus, rather Jimi Jamison's vocal and <b>Frankie Sullivan's</b> lead guitar to guide the track through its paces. To be honest, I think I'll end the album with <font color="#ffff00">Don't Give Up</font> on most listens. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I think <font color="#00ffff">Reach</font> offers some great new <b>Survivor</b> tunes and I also think for the most part it sounds well put together. What it is, is something different for the guys and a new stage of their history, albeit, a somewhat mellower stage.<br /> The production style is different, the hard rock edge is not there and the music isn't as polished as in the past. I know some fans will miss these elements. Personally, I could live with all of this a little easier if I could have had two extra uptempo tracks in place of 2 ballads.<br /> But for something a little more reflective, <font color="#00ffff">Reach</font> certainly offers some soulful melodic rock. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Survivor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Premonition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eye Of The Tiger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caught In The Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vital Signs<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Seconds Count<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Hot To Sleep<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Greatest Hits 1 & 2<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Ultimate Survivor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reach</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimi Jamison:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frankie Sullivan:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marc Droubay:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barry Dunaway:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Grove:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Survivor</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Reach <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire Makes Steel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nevertheless<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seconds Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One More Chance <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gimmie The Word<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rhythm Of Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Half Of My Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Talkin' 'Bout Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Give Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Home<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#408080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gary John Barden</b> <font color="#ffffff">Agony & The Xtasy</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM128 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/garyjohnbarden-theagonyandxtasy.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Voss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.51 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 14</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Barden fans are going to love this. The former <b>MSG</b> singer and <b>Ian Gillan</b> soundalike takes the basic blueprint of last year's solo album and takes it that one step further to truly represent what the <b>Gary Barden</b> name historically stands for.<br /> This is a straight ahead melodic hard rock record which sees Barden in top form and really nailing the material on offer.<br /> Like no record since his days with <b>MSG</b>, this captures the traditional melodic hard rock spirit of Barden as singer – straight forward blues based hard rock with a nod to Purple-esque British classic rock.<br /> The songs – all but one written or co-written by Barden are simple, yet effective and filled with a strong guitar presence and authorative vocals.<br /> There's a bluesy swagger to the album, but first and foremost it is a hard rocking record.<br /> The album opens strongly with the uptempo commercial rocker <font color="#ffff00">Hot Daze</font>, and gets even better with the big hook chorus of <font color="#ffff00">Stop (Whatcha Doing To Me)</font> before diving into a bluesy bar room rocker <font color="#ffff00">Let Me Down</font>, which features guest <b>Michael Schenker</b> on lead guitar.<br /> It gets slow and bluesy for <font color="#ffff00">Wounded</font> – which features a great vocal – as does the sentimental <font color="#ffff00">In And Out Of Love</font>. Pick of the album for me is <font color="#ffff00">Arise</font>, a super commercial track with a big chorus and special guest guitarist <b>Steve Morris</b>.<br /> Closing the album is a 6 minute slow blues number which features <b>Tommy Denander</b> doing his best <b>Gary Moore</b>.<br /> Production courtesy of the ever reliable <b>Michael Voss</b> is a strong as ever and the mix is even and balanced, with room for everything to breathe. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Perfect for <b>Gary Barden</b> fans and very enjoyable for anyone into that British classic hard rock style that such bands as early MSG, Deep Purple and Rainbow cover. And given that he is in such fine vocal form, fans of Gary's work with <b>Silver</b> and <b>Statetrooper</b> should also be impressed.<br /> Tightly produced and featuring some class songs, I rate this as Gary's best solo album and one of his best releases in general. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Past & Present<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Agony & The Xtasy</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Barden:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Voss:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Betram Engel:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Barden</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>MSG</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Statetrooper</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot Daze <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can´t Stop Dreaming<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stop (What´Cha Doing To Me) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wounded<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No More Reasons<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In & Out Of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Arise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Change Of Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Need Some Love<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ted Poley</b> <font color="#ffffff">Collateral Damage</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Kivel Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tedpoley-collateraldamage.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> John Kivel, Ted Poley, Vic Rivera & Alex Salz</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.tedpoley.com" target="new">Ted Poley</a> <a href="http://www.kivelrecords.com" target="new">Kivel Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Ted Poley</b> is back and for the first time ever, under his own moniker. Ted should be proud to attach his name to this release and I think most long time fans will agree that this is one of Ted's best ever releases and definitely his best outside of <b>Danger Danger</b>.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Collateral Damage</font> sees Ted team up with acclaimed musician <b>Vic Rivera</b>, the main man behind the last (and best) <b>Adriangale</b> release <font color="#00ffff">Crunch</font>.<br /> Vic wrote the majority of the songs here with several co-write credits to Ted. Vic also supplies all rhythm guitars, drums and bass. This is as much his baby as it is Ted's and the duo clearly work together like they have been a team for years.<br /> There are several guests who make additional contributions, but I'll get to those shortly.<br /> Like many others out there, I have been a long tine <b>Ted Poley</b> fan. Since the debut D2 record in fact.<br /> While not everyone appreciated the releases from Ted's last project <b>Melodica</b>, I think the vast majority will be united in their praise for this album.<br /> Most noticeably – and importantly – Ted sounds the best he has in years, with strong harmonious lead vocals at all times throughout this release.<br /> An extension of that compliment is the massive harmony vocals featured here. Each song features multiple layers of vocals supplied by Ted and the previously unaccredited <b>Mike Ledesma</b>. Based on Mike's input here – watch for his name to appear again soon.<br /> The style featured here is very melodic - pure AOR with an occasional melodic hard rock punch. It is certainly mellower than Poley fronted <b>Danger Danger</b>, but kicks a little more ass than <b>Melodica</b> or <b>Bone Machine</b>.<br /> There are influences from the likes of <b>D2</b> and <b>Melodica</b> here, plus a nod to the sound of the last <b>Adriangale</b> record thanks to Vic's involvement.<br /> I have spoken of lots of positives here, but there is also a couple of points where I think improvements could have been made.<br /> Firstly – the song running order – not as I would have done it. I think the better tracks are stacked in the back half of the album and the album's first two tracks are not at all suited for the position chosen for them. The album really kicks into gear around track 4 and maintains a better pace from that point right to the end.<br /> I would have opened with <font color="#ffff00">Heads Up</font> and then moved into <font color="#ffff00">Endgame</font> and then <font color="#ffff00">Rise</font>.<br /> Secondly – the production – this is certainly the best thing Ted has put his name too outside <b>Danger Danger</b>, but even then there is some room for further improvement.<br /> A great emphasis has been put on making this album very melodic and drenching it in harmonies. What would have been nice is a harder hitting drum sound and a little more urgency to a couple of tracks. It wouldn't have hurt the album to be a little heavier and a little tougher. Ted is up to it and we sure know that Vic is up to it.<br /> Just a little extra muscle could have seen the great songs within taken right over the top. Just two small points for an otherwise extremely enjoyable release.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> The most traditional <b>Ted Poley</b> sounding track of the album kicks things off. I don't think <font color="#ffff00">Yeah, U Want It</font> is the best track on offer here at all and think it was a little safe to select it as the opening track. That said, it is still a typically catchy Poley number and immediately puts any talk of vocal demons to rest. A guest spot by original D2 axe-slinger <b>Andy Timmons</b> caps things off.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Breathing Doll</font> is another track better suited for midway through the album and doesn't have enough impact for its position here. The drum beat is a little dull and repetitive, but the chorus and some strong guitar leads help make it work. <b>Harem Scarem's Pete Lesperance</b> guests on guitar.<br /> The mellower pure AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Curtain Call</font> will have fans of Poley's softer side gushing. Some very melodic guitar riffing and a wonderfully passionate lead vocal and catchy chorus will have fans singing along with this from the first listen. Vic's lead solo is also something to appreciate.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Endgame</font> has a definite <b>Adriangale</b> vibe to it, with a dirtier guitar riff and a tougher vocal. I like it! The chorus takes a while to appear and isn't one of the album's strongest, but the track acts best as an album tempo changer.<br /> The short <b>Xavier Paladian (Snake Eye)</b> solo fits in well, but could and should have been longer.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Maybe</font> is a personal favourite. Kicking off with a slower, darker and moodier start, the track fires up with some strong guitar work and a brooding but memorable chorus. It again features a strong vocal performance.<br /> <b>Firehouse</b> guitarist <b>Bill Leverty</b> supplies a super fine solo which suits the song to a tee.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Good Enough</font> is another fine example of how a slight change in mood can do wonders for an album. The moody keyboard intro and a lower Poley vocal is in contrast to a great uptempo guitar fuelled chorus. A fine song and perfectly positioned in the scheme of the songs around it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hero Falling</font> is a fairly straight forward mid-tempo rocker with a fine chorus that touches on <b>Def Leppard</b> style delivery.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let Go</font> is a very fine ballad with a sentimental heart and lots of harmony vocals.<br /> Now to close we get the two very best tracks of the album. Refer back to my point about the song running order! Still, it is always good to end any album on a high note and <font color="#ffff00">Heads Up (Look Out Below)</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Rise</font> do that without question.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heads Up</font> contains that little extra bit of fire that I talked about earlier and features a brilliant chorus, strong guitar work and layers of lush harmonies! <font color="#ffff00">Rise</font> continues the step up in tempo started by Heads Up. More strong guitar work and more harmonies combine with maybe the second best chorus of the album (following <font color="#ffff80">Heads Up</font>) to deliver a one-two punch to seal the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">Collateral Damage</font> is another string to Vic's bow and sees his impressive resume growing. It is also Ted's finest solo moment to date and the signal of even better things to come.<br /> Some fine songs and a strong emphasis on harmony and melody make this a very attractive record for fans of Ted's and straight melodic rock/AOR.<br /> I'm looking forward to the duo's next record already. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Projects</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger Danger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bone Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Melodica<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Collateral Damage</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ted Poley:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vic Rivera:</b> Guitars, Bass, Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Salz:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ted Poley</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danger Danger</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Adriangale</b> - Crunch</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Adriangale</b> - Crunch</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Yeah, U Want It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breathing Doll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Curtain Call <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Endgame <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Maybe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Enough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hero Falling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heads Up (Look Out Below) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Chicago</b> <font color="#ffffff">XXX</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Rhino Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/chicago-30.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jay DeMarcus</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Westcoast</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.chicagotheband.com" target="new">Chicago</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">In a marketplace saturated with metal, the absence of some classic AOR and Westcoast seems more noticeable. <b>Chicago's</b> long awaited new studio album – their 30th overall release – definitely fills that gap.<br /> What is most satisfying is the way the band fills that gap. This is a release of the highest quality that is designed not only to satisfy long time fans of the band, but also offer something that might attract new fans looking for something a little more mature to spin when the occasion calls for it.<br /> Divine instrumentation and immaculate production mixed with the sweet harmonies of the band's vocalists make for an album that is very easy to listen to and very easy on the ears.<br /> There is nothing on this album that will surprise anyone familiar with the music of <b>Chicago</b>. But that doesn't make it any less enjoyable. This is exactly what fans of the band want.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Feel</font> is classic <b>Chicago</b>. Soft keyboards and a subtle but busy rhythm section are dominated by a hearty guitar riff and a powerful lead vocal. At the center of the track is a great hook and one which should find them on radio playlists everywhere.<br /> Two versions are offered – one at each end of the album, but I prefer the closing version. The addition of those <b>Chicago</b> horns in this mix really makes you feel at home.<br /> If <font color="#ffff00">Feel</font> left you with any doubt, <font color="#ffff00">King Of What Might Have Been</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Caroline</font> won't.<br /> The ballad <font color="#ffff00">King Of What Might Have Been</font> features <b>Jason Scheff</b> in full vocal swing with <b>Toto's Joseph Williams</b> guesting on backing vocals.<br /> The equally smooth, but more uptempo and radio friendly pop rocker <font color="#ffff00">Caroline</font> is another example of why Chicago is the very best at what they do. Another <b>Toto</b> alumni, <b>Bobby Kimball</b> appears as a guest on backing vocals.<br /> Other guests on <font color="#00ffff">XXX</font> include guitar great <b>Dann Huff</b> on 6 tracks; country rockers <b>Rascal Flatts</b> on the 80s style pop ballad <font color="#ffff00">Love Will Come Back</font>; and <b>Shelly Fairchild</b> on the duet Westcoast ballad <font color="#ffff00">Why Can't We</font>.<br /> Other highlights of the album include the Westcoast pop of <font color="#ffff00">Long Lost Friend</font> and the catchy double-dose of high-tech AOR in <font color="#ffff00">90 Degrees And Freezing</font> and the even better <font color="#ffff00">Where Were You</font>.<br /> Things turn a little jazzier in the last few tracks on the album, but the first two thirds is packed with classy and classic Chicago. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is <b>Chicago</b> doing as they have done for years – nothing new and nothing out of character. But it's done so very well without a single note being out of place. Add in superb production quality and some of the more memorable songs the guys have delivered in recent memory and you get a winning combination and one of the better pure AOR/Westcoast releases for 2006. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="http://www.chicagotheband.com/discography.htm" target="new">www.chicagotheband.com/discography.htm</a></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Scheff:</b> Vocals, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Keith Howland:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tris Imboden:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Walt Parazaider:</b> Saxophones, Flutes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Lamm:</b> Piano, Wurlitzer, Hammond Organ, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bill Champlin:</b> Hammond Organ, Piano, Fender Rhodes, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Loughnane:</b> Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Piccolo Trumpet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Pankow:</b> Trombone</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chicago</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Westcoast</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The softer side of Toto</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King Of Might Have Been <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caroline <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Why Can't We<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Will Come Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Lost Friend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 90 Degrees And Freezing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Were You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Already Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Come To Me, Do<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovin' Chains<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel (Horn Mix)<font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#313399" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Blue Tears</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Innocent Ones</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00022 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bluetears-theinnocentones.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Gregg Fulkerson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Blue Tears</b> are back – in name at least.<br /> The famous <b>Blue Tears</b> debut saw the band attract a fan base that would follow them long after the dust had settled on their one and only album.<br /> As unreleased demos and rarities leaked over the years, they became a hot ticket item and were heavily traded and even sold at high prices via E-bay.<br /> In 2003 <b>Gregg Fulkerson</b> resurfaced fronting the more modern rock aligned <b>Attraction 65</b>. Their debut album was immaculately produced and deserved wider attention, but the hard core <b>Blue Tears</b> fans were left wishing for a return of the old sound.<br /> In 2005 Gregg dealt with the increasing issue of bad sounding BT bootlegs and signed to <b>Suncity Records Australia</b> for a set of CDs that saw those old classic tracks released finally in CD quality.<br /> With the enthusiasm for getting those tracks into the public domain came a desire to return to the classic Blue Tears sound with a brand new record. <font color="#00ffff">The Innocent Ones</font> is the result.<br /> This is an album of 14 tracks that does – for the most part – return to the classic style and concept that <b>Blue Tears</b> originally was.<br /> The big choruses, the <b>Def Leppard</b> style instrumentation and the <b>Bon Jovi/Bruce Springsteen</b> influenced lead vocal all make a welcomed comeback. But, there is one key ingredient of the original release missing. The big production.<br /> Yes, the songs sound big – that's their nature and the way they are delivered and yes, the strength of most of the songs featured here is not in dispute. But the album's production leaves a lot to be desired. At times it sounds like the music was rushed and feels incomplete.<br /> Perhaps it is the lack of any real drums on the album that is the worst offending point. The programmed drum machine sadly sounds like a machine most of the time. The drum sound becomes very repetitive and when a big burst of energy is required for the songs, the programmed beats just don't do the songs justice.<br /> Additionally the mix is very poor. The music in general and especially some guitar parts sound a little hollow and besides the lead vocal, nothing quite sounds like it used to.<br /> This pains me to say. I'll be honest and say that Gregg is a good guy, a friend and someone that I respect a great deal as a writer and a musician. And I don't doubt for a second that he will be very unhappy to read these views.<br /> But it is what it is.<br /> Sound issues aside, the album still offers some very fine songs. As stated, I respect Fulkerson's writing talent and think there is a lot of love out there for his guitar fuelled anthems of Americana, delivered in style that mixes anthemic <b>Bon Jovi</b> with a heartfelt New Jersey Springsteen down-to-earthness.<br /> The album opens with perhaps the strongest song of all the new ones. <font color="#ffff00">Drive</font> was born to be an album opener. Designed to be played as loud as possible while flying down the highway, the song definitely brings back memories of the 1990 debut.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let It Rain</font> is a little darker and certainly moodier. It features a catchy chorus and a cool guitar solo. Musically it is the missing piece between classic <b>Blue Tears</b> and <b>Attraction 65</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Run For Your Life</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Fast Times</font> are both 80s influenced rockers, while <font color="#ffff00">The Innocent Ones</font> is a more reflective acoustic driven melodic rocker with a great chorus and a moody lead vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Save Yourself</font> is a solid ballad, but its the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">All The Way Home</font> that could easily have been a track on the <b>Attraction 65</b> record and features a great lead vocal and a little extra production.<br /> The uptempo rocker <font color="#ffff00">She Wants To Be A Star</font> strangely sounds louder than the rest of the album and suffers from a rough vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gloryland</font> matches the intensity of the opening track with its Springsteen styled fist pumping theme.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Money To Burn</font> is also a little rough, but the organ throughout gives it an earthy feel. The feel good chorus would certainly work live.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Unrequited Love</font> closes the album – this is a moody, passionate ballad featuring only Gregg's voice and a piano. It works well. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Fulkerson handles vocals, guitars and all programming, while newcomer <b>Bryan Wolski</b> handles bass parts. <font color="#00ffff">The Innocent Ones</font> is not a full band project and never really sounds like it either.<br /> I loved <b>Attracion 65</b>. It was one of my top ranking albums of 2003. What I would have liked to see was the effort and production values put into that album, brought over to the songs written for this album.<br /> The combination of the two would have made this album an absolute stand out in the world of melodic rock. As it stands, this will merely be a collection of great songs that haven't been done the justice they deserve due to a poor production sound. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mad, Bad & Dangerous<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancin' On The Backstreets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Innocent Ones</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gregg Fulkerson:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Programming<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bryan Wolski:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Blue Tears</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gregg Fulkerson</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Drive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Run For Your Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Innocent Ones <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Yourself <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fast Times<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your Dreams <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Way Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She Wants To Be A Star <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gloryland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Break My Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silent Scream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Money To Burn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unrequited Love<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cd5680" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Blue Tears</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dancin' On The Backstreets</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Suncity Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SR003 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bluetears-dancinonthebackstreets.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Gregg Fulkerson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 72.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.suncityrecords.com" target="new">Suncity Records</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#00ffff">Dancing On The Backstreets</font> is the companion release to the other 2005 release <font color="#00ffff">Mad, Bad & Dangerous</font>.<br /> Spreading the best of the classic <b>Blue Tears</b> unreleased tracks over two discs was always going to be risky and does expose both compilations to a few fillers.<br /> Such was the case with the first CD and there are a few more tracks here that might have been better left in the studio vault.<br /> But completeists and <b>Blue Tears</b> fanatics would then still be left with tracks to trade, and it can be argued that it is better get as many of the unreleased tracks out there as possible.<br /> Both compilations are enjoyable slices of nostalgia – designed for fans of <b>Gregg Fulkerson</b> and the boys and their cult debut album.<br /> Those who have purchased both CDs now have the opportunity to create a 1 disc best of, which is what I will probably do.<br /> The best tracks on offer here are the opening duo of <font color="#ffff00">Summer Girl</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Loud Guitars, Fast Cars & Wild Wild Women</font> (as covered by <b>Contraband</b>); the 80s Kiss-like anthem of <font color="#ffff00">Kiss And Tell</font>; the original version of the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Storm In My Heart</font> (updated by Fulkerson for <b>Attraction 65</b>); and of course the utterly essential and almost legendary <font color="#ffff00">Date With Destiny</font> (originally written for <b>Meatloaf</b>).<br /> Also cool is the pop/rocker <font color="#ffff00">All Cried Out</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Small Town Girl</font> (although production quality here is pretty average).<br /> Tracks perhaps not quite making the grade include the hokey <font color="#ffff00">Slip And Fall; Livin In The Movies</font> (ok track, poor production); the out of character hard pop of <font color="#ffff00">Touch</font> and 'little too happy' <font color="#ffff00">Dark Of The Night</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This set of songs is very dated, but largely consistent and enjoyable for established fans. They of course have a cult following already and collectors will be overjoyed at being able to throw out their old crappy versions of these songs.<br /> I prefer the first compilation and think it would have been even stronger with the addition of a couple of songs featured here, but if you have bought the first one already, you know you need this one also. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mad, Bad & Dangerous<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancin' On The Backstreets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Innocent Ones</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gregg Fulkerson:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bryan Hall:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Charlie Lauderdale:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Spears:</b> Bass, Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The debut Blue Tears record.</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Blue Tears</b> - Mad, Bad & Dangerous</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Summer Town <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loud Guitars... <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kiss And Tell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Storm In My Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slip And Fall<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Date With Destiny <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Cried Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever Yours<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Want Me?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Small Town Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Livin' In The Movies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She's Not Falling In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strong<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Touch<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dark Of The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Of Me<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#97c7cc" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Last Autumn's Dream</b> <font color="#ffffff">Winter In Paradise</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM129 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/lastautumnsdream-winterinparadise.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Torbjorn Wassenenius & Claes Andereasson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44.05</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 14</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Last Autumn's Dream</b> make for a pretty strong line-up. Vocalist <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> has one of the sweetest melodic rock voices in Scandinavia, <b>Marcel Jacob</b> is the groove meister; <b>Andy Malecek</b> can deliver a tasty riff and drummer <b>Jamie Borger</b> is the glue that holds it all together.<br /> Unfortunately following an acclaimed debut, the band shot themselves in the foot with a seriously average follow-up.<br /> That almost completely killed interest in the band, but to their credit they didn't give up. Rather they have rebounded with their best album to date.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Winter In Paradise</font> slays the demons of the second album, out performing it in every department.<br /> The production is slick and powerful, the songs are filled with memorable hooks and sweet AOR melodies and the performances are more urgent. So good is this album that for me it even overhauls the debut.<br /> Glorious uptempo Scandi AOR doesn't come much better than the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Love To Go</font>, with a strong raspy delivery and instant chorus.<br /> Other highlights on this very strong release include <font color="#ffff00">The Way You Smile</font>, which combines some updated production effects with a simple mid-tempo AOR ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Heart Keeps Stalling</font> features a strong guitar riff and another instant chorus; plus the band's big rocker <font color="#ffff00">Winter In Paradise</font>, which features another great chorus; and the heartfelt rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">If You're The One</font>.<br /> The Japanese release features <font color="#ffff00">It's Alright</font>, which is one of the band's fastest pop rockers to date, while in it's place on this European release is the very enjoyable moody rocker <font color="#ffff00">When She's Gone</font>, which has a modern pop vibe. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is some of the best vocals I have heard from Erlandsson and the beefy production gives the band a slightly heavier feel. Some extremely strong choruses and instantly likeable songs make this a definite AOR highlight – especially for fans of the Scandi variety.<br /> Thankfully a European deal has been struck and unlike me, the majority can now purchase without the hefty penalty of a Japanese import price. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Autumn's Dream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Winter In Paradise</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael Erlandsson:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Malecek:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jamie Borger:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcel Jacob:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Last Autumn's Dream</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> - The Gift</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Love To Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Let Your Love Go Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way You Smile <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When She's Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Heart Keeps Stalling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Echoes From The Past<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Winter In Paradise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Want To Hurt You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Want Is Rock N' Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If You're The One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Is The Answer<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0000ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Valentine</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Most Beautiful Pain</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD280 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/valentine-themostbeautifulpain.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Robby Valentine</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63.16</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock / Pomp / AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There are a lot of artists featured on this site that require an acquired taste to appreciate. This guy probably tops that list!<br /> Dutch rocker <b>Robby Valentine</b> is one of the more unique artists out there, even when his style clearly drawn from one clear influence – that of <b>Freddy Mercury</b> & <b>Queen</b>.<br /> Yes, he is a bit nutty and no, not everyone is going to appreciate this record. Not by a long stretch.<br /> For those that do 'get' <b>Valentine</b> and have followed his career – get ready for possibly his best record to date.<br /> To add credence to this comment I'll say that I have not previously been convinced by any <b>Valentine</b> album, but dig this one.<br /> This is hard to describe – the styles used within range from classic melodic rock to high-tech, effects filled modern rock to groove laden dance-pop through to nu-breed inspired rockers.<br /> All the above feature big choruses, layers and layers of added instrumentation and of course <b>Queen</b> 'inspired' choruses and vocal acrobatics.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Most Beautiful Pain</font> is one of <b>Valentine's</b> heavier records to date with a greater emphasis placed on guitars and big choruses, while keyboards and symphonic passages are used as support rather than as key elements.<br /> This is a dramatic melodic rock record with far more consistency than some of <b>Valentine's</b> more pomp filled exercises in overblown theatrics. There is a lot of music to digest with this album so I suggest 4 or 5 listens to really get a grasp on it.<br /> The first half of the album is more melodic rock, while the second half is more pomp/piano orientated.<br /> Highlights for me are the opening rocker with the Queen-esque falsetto chorus, which leads directly into the very similar second track; the pop/punk nu-breed of <font color="#ffff00">I'm Going Under</font>; the pomp/pop perfection of <font color="#ffff00">One Of These Days</font>, with it's <b>Backstreet Boys</b> style chorus hook and high-tech production; the 80s melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">She</font>; the pure 70s Queen pop of <font color="#ffff00">Magical Memories</font>; and the orchestral ballad <font color="#ffff00">One Heart</font>, which again tips the hat to the theatrics of <b>Queen</b> and <b>Freddy Mercury</b>.<br /> Also watch for <font color="#ffff00">Supernova</font>, which is so utterly bizarre (pomp/pop/prog/symphonic/70s glam) it defies explanation.<br /> The last several tracks do perhaps see the album overstay its welcome a little. After all, 17 tracks is a lot of music in anyone's book. The power-pop/melodic rock of the first half of the album fades a little to allow <b>Valentine</b> to pretend he is <b>Freddy Mercury</b> circa 1975. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> 18 tracks and 63 minutes means the listener is in for one hell of a ride. To some this album is going to be impossible to fathom for some. Perhaps a series of diverse and overblown songs performed by some nutter? Perhaps an example of pure pomp genius? Perhaps a little of both!<br /> If I am honest I must admit that Valentine is utterly untouchable when it comes to crafting theatrical melodic rock into something palatable. <b>Robby Valentine</b> is indeed in a league of his own and this album contains some of his finest moments to date. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Robby Valentine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Magic Infinity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valentine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valentine 4 United<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Sugar Added<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Believing Is Seeing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Most Beautiful Pain </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robby Valentine:</b> Vocals, Piano, Keyboards, Guitar, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johan Willems:</b> Additional Vocal Harmonies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Juan Van Emmerloot, Nop Ton:</b> Drums</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Valentine</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pomp/AOR</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>70s Queen</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> I Should Have Known Better <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A New World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm Going Under (Sedated) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Of These Days <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Cold And Lonely Lie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She (Abandoned Heart) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magnum Opus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everyday Hero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Supernova<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magical Memories <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Many Times<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mickey<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Can I Live Without You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back To The Future Theme<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now Or Never<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Exodus Elephantes<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ffff00" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Danger Danger</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live And Nude</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Low Dice Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LD20090 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/dangerdanger-liveandnude.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Danger Danger</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 71.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.dangerdanger.com" target="new">Danger Danger</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Released via the band's website late last year, this 2003 live recording is finally available on a wider basis.<br /> Seen as a farewell release for singer <b>Paul Laine</b> (before the band returned to original vocalist <b>Ted Poley</b>), this is almost a perfect live album.<br /> I say 'almost' as the downside is that it simply isn't long enough! Its actually 71 minutes in length, which is great value for a single CD, but being the <b>Paul Laine</b> addict I am, a box set running 4 hours still wouldn't satisfy.<br /> This set was recorded on the band's 2003 UK tour and features Laine and Co. smoking through a set of early hits and tracks from 3 of the studio albums with Laine (nothing on here from Dawn).<br /> 13 tracks is a nice snapshot, but as I said, for such a great band you always want more.<br /> Favourites are the Laine sung originals <font color="#ffff00">Dead Drunk & Wasted, Grind</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Don't Break My Heart Again</font>.<br /> Having never seen the band live, I was thoroughly impressed with Laine's powerful renditions of the Poley anthems <font color="#ffff00">Rock America, Bang Bang, Beat The Bullet</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Naughty Naughty</font>. I especially adore the closing moments of <font color="#ffff00">Rock America</font>.<br /> I know fans of the original line-up were pleased to see Poley return, but Laine still delivers those classic tracks with fire.<br /> As for the recording – superb. A nice clear capture of the band at their energetic best, without studio overdubs to ruin the vibe or atmosphere. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not much of a summary needed. Essential for all fans of <b>Danger Danger</b> and <b>Paul Laine</b>. Great songs, memorable performances and a nice true live recording. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger Danger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Screw It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dawn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Four The Hard Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Return Of The Great Gildersleeves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cockroach<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rare Cuts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live & Nude</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Laine:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob Marcello:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve West:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bruno Ravel:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Laine</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danger Danger</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Beat The Bullet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Grind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under The Gun <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Walk Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bang Bang<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Goin' Goin' Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dead Drunk And Wasted <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monkey Business<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock America <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Still Think About You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Naughty Naughty <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kingofthehill</b> <font color="#ffffff">Unreleased</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">TheCompany</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">12051 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/kingofthehill-unreleased.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Kingofthehill, Howard Benson, Keith Olsen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 71.15</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.kingofthehillonline.net" target="new">Kingofthehill</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Kingofthehill's</b> long traded second studio album finally gets an official release by the guys themselves.<br /> Fans of the debut will of course be pleased, none more than those that already had a copy of many of these songs, albeit in pretty average quality.<br /> Thanks to a refresher, these tracks sound better than ever.<br /> <b>Kingofthehill</b> were not your average hard rock band and their demise at the time of so many others was unfair, as they had little in common with the scene as a whole that got wiped out by grunge.<br /> The guys – fronted by the charismatic <b>Frankie</b> were hard to pigeonhole then and even harder now.<br /> The funk and groove of <b>Extreme</b>, the swagger of <b>David Lee Roth</b> and the musical diversity of <b>Aerosmith</b> all combine with their own vibe to create a unique style.<br /> The debut album was funked up in places, but this is an even more diverse collection of songs.<br /> Highlights from the album definitely include the opening two tracks. <font color="#ffff00">What Kind Of Man</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Save It For Yourself</font> showcase everything this groovy band is and was about; <font color="#ffff00">Hands On U</font> rocks with a frantic pace; <font color="#ffff00">Better U</font> is a very commercial and classy rock ballad; <font color="#ffff00">United</font> is a strong rocker with a vibe of the debut; and <font color="#ffff00">Just A Little Bit</font> is another commercial rocker with a strong chorus.<br /> The album closes with a remix of the infamous <font color="#ffff00">I Do U</font> from the debut. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Definitely worth the investment for those that loved the debut. Those that missed the guys first time around, or didn't perhaps 'get' their sound may still not be convinced, but the band's musical ability and knack of writing a catchy song is undeniable. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingofthehill<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unreleased</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frankie:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimmy Griffin:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vito Bono:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>George Potsos:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kingofthehill</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> What Kind Of Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save It For Yourself <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What U See<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hands On You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tonite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better U <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just A Little Bit <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mama<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lisa<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Love Is Free<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> United<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Segue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Allright<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Is It M Body<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better U (Acoustic)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Do U (Remix)<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#e87400" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Andersen Laine Readman</b> <font color="#ffffff">Three</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD275 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/alr-three.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Andre Andersen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 36.38</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is easily my favourite heavy rock release of 2006 so far. <b>Royal Hunt</b> keyboardist/composer <b>Andre Andersen</b> is behind this idea and has made some inspired choices in who to bring along with him.<br /> Two sensational voices join with Andersen to make this record work.<br /> If you can get past the bloody awful cover artwork, the material within is more straight forward hard rock than the at times, progressive or neo-classical leanings of <b>Royal Hunt</b>. What is most evident is the quite brilliant song and chorus hooks and less reliance on flashy soloing – possibly because Andersen gets to do everything himself. Guitars, bass and keyboards are all Andre's doing - credit to him – these are impressive performances.<br /> Vocal wise, former <b>Danger Danger</b> frontman <b>Paul Laine</b> makes a welcome return to hard rock after the mellower modern pop/rock of <b>Shuggazer</b>; and man of the moment <b>David Readman</b>, frontman for <b>Pink Cream 69</b>, provides the other half of the lead vocals – 5 tracks apiece.<br /> The pair trade-off songs throughout the album, which would normally run the risk of killing the flow of the album, yet it is with some surprise that I say their voices sound remarkably similar and harmonious.<br /> Laine sounds right at home singing at the top of his lungs, especially on the opener <font color="#ffff00">Rise</font> and the <b>Danger Danger</b>-esque rock anthem <font color="#ffff00">The Way It Goes</font> – one of my picks of the album.<br /> He also delivers one of the darker, moodier and more dramatic album tracks on <font color="#ffff00">End Of My Rope</font>.<br /> Readman gets a similar role. A few <b>Royal Hunt</b> like power rockers – none better than <font color="#ffff00">Straight To The Heart</font> and the utterly brilliant anthem <font color="#ffff00">Don't Need A Thing</font>. Then there's the darker number in <font color="#ffff00">Scared To Live</font>.<br /> The material here features a lot of the power of <b>Royal Hunt</b> and plenty of solos still, but is just that touch more commercial and accessible.<br /> The choruses are brilliant and the lead vocals are inspired and powerful. With respect to <b>John West</b>, you don't miss his input here at all.<br /> I have been a big fan of the last few <b>Royal Hunt</b> releases, but if you could think of something those albums were missing – you will find it here.<br /> Which leaves me rather confused I'm afraid. If Andre had these brilliant songs and melodies on hand, why didn't he use them on the last Royal Hunt record?<br /> That last album featured three rather pointless instrumental glory pieces which I didn't think had much point at all, but their inclusion makes even less sense now I have heard these great songs. <b>John West</b> would have had just as much fun on any of these tracks had they been used at the time. I guess Royal Hunt and melodic hard rock fans are winners in there end as here they are now, with two brilliant singers on hand to ensure they are given the treatment they deserve.<br /> Sound wise, the production could have used a little more bottom end. Overall the record sounds a little tinny but it doesn't take away from the enjoyment of the songs. A perfect sound would have seen this rated closer to 95. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The biggest question that this releases raises for me is if <b>Andre Andersen</b> had all these great songs laying around – why did he not use them for Royal Hunt? They aren't that far from that band's style that they would appear out of place. For that reason <b>Royal Hunt</b> fans will eat this up, but even more so, those that love <b>Pink Cream 69</b> and <b>Paul Laine</b> will love what the guys have done with Andersen.<br /> A very fine straight ahead hard rocking release that I have been playing on high rotation ever since it arrived. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Solo: Chaging Skin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Solo: Black On Black<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Solo: Oceanview<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> ALR: Three</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Laine, David Readman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andre Andersen:</b> Keyboards, Bass, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kaj Laege:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bjarke Hopen:</b> Lead Guitar</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Royal Hunt</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Laine</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pink Cream 69 / David Readman</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dust To Dust <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way It Goes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Straight To The Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me Your Lies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Need A Thing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End of My Rope<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scared To Live<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bulletproof<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Learning To Fly<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jim Peterik</b> <font color="#ffffff">Above The Storm</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD278 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/jimpeterik-abovethestorm.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jim Peterik</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57.58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.jimpeterik.com" target="new">Jim Peterik</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Jim Peterik</b> keeps the recent momentum of his post-<b>Survivor</b> career going with a brand new solo release, squeezed in-between <b>Pride Of Lions</b> duties. Jim returns to the soulful, earthy rock n roll tone of his <b>World Stage</b> project, which is an outlet for the other half of Jim's writing skills, when he is not concentrating on AOR.<br /> Like the <b>World Stage</b> release, <font color="#00ffff">Above The Storm</font> features a Midwestern style straightforwardness that has seen Jim become a popular co-writer with the likes of <b>Lynyrd Skynyrd</b> and <b>38 Special</b>.<br /> On board for the album are some old friends and faces, including <b>Ed Breckenfeld, Klem Hayes</b> and <b>Mike Aquino (Pride Of Lions)</b> and the <b>Ides Of March</b> guys, although the main musical credit must go to Jim himself, who supplies a majority of the instrumentation.<br /> For those who have followed Jim's career and don't need converting, this will be a welcomed release that touches on familiar themes – spirituality, love, family and facing life's challenges head on.<br /> For those that haven't warmed to the <b>Pride of Lions</b> material, this might offer an alternative opportunity to appreciate one of the melodic scene's finest writers.<br /> Given the nature of the album's style, it might even appeal to a few new folk - those that look for positive lyrical content within their music and like the melodic, yet back to basics sound of such bands as <b>38 Special</b> and <b>David Carl</b>.<br /> Not every track works, but the majority do and Jim's vocals, while a little rough, sound better than ever.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Live Life</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Burning With A Reason</font> give the album a flying start. Two energetic rockers with a southern rock <b>38 Special</b> feel and some great guitar work give notice that even as a solo artist, Jim's a rocker.<br /> The soulful mid-tempo <font color="#ffff00">Above The Storm</font> delivers a sentimental message and one of Jim's more expressive vocals to date.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In The Days We Have</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Stand And Be Counted</font> both vary the tempo and offer more fine melodic choruses.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">At This Time Of Night</font> has an interesting swagger and a chorus hook that won't let you forget it.<br /> The next few tracks explore the romantic side of life and change the pace of the album a little. <font color="#ffff00">Talent For Loving You</font> is true romantic ballad, but is perhaps just a little too nice for me. Jim counteracts with my favourite track of the album. <font color="#ffff00">Hiding From Yourself</font> is a first rate melodic rocker that sounds like a classic <b>38 Special/Don Barnes</b> anthem.<br /> The album closes with a couple of slower tracks, which in some ways take away from the momentum of the first half of the album.<br /> Not bad tracks by any stretch, but perhaps closing the album after <font color="#ffff00">Hiding From Yourself</font> might have been a better idea. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This has all the appeal of the <b>World Stage</b> release, but on this occasion Jim is the only vocalist featured. <font color="#00ffff">Above The Storm</font> is a very likable album and Peterik fans won't need any convincing. It once again showcases <b>Jim Peterik's</b> immense writing talent – albeit in a different light than the more AOR designed <b>Pride Of Lions</b> material.<br /> Perhaps a couple of tracks too long and a little too nice in places, this is still another great release that Jim can be proud of. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Fight The Feeling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jimpeterik-worldstage.html">World Stage: World Stage</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jimpeterik-rockamerica.html">World Stage: Rock America</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Above The Storm</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik:</b> Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Keyboards, Percussion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Aquino:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ed Breckenfield, Mike Alongi:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Klem Hayes:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott May:</b> B3 Organ</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>World Stage</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>World Stage</b> - World Stage</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Live Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning With A Reason <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Above The Storm <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Days We Have<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand And Be Counted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> At This Time Of Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Kiss To Remember You By<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The God In You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Secrets Of A Woman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Talent For Loving You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hiding From Yourself <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight In My Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Believe<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bloodbound</b> <font color="#ffffff">Nosferatu</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00016 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bloodbound.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Thomas Olsson & Fredrik Bergh</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.04</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">What's this? Swedish AOR guru and ivory tinkler <b>Fredrik Bergh (Street Talk)</b> performing melodic metal and dressed to the nine's in gorefest make-up? What is the world coming to? Is AOR truly an artform at risk of total annihilation?<br /> In answer to those questions – no idea and yes indeed! But the end is not quite upon us yet.<br /> Previously responsible for some of the finest and sweetest AOR this side of Air Supply, Bergh has 'turned nasty' and is now showcasing his great talents to a new audience.<br /> No one could blame any devout AOR legend for trying something new. And due to the fact Fredrik is recording a new <b>Street Talk</b> album now; we will allow him this excursion into metaldom.<br /> Fredrik joins with long time pal <b>Tomas Olsson</b> on guitars and <b>Urban Breed</b>, the highly regarded frontman from the <b>Tad Morose</b>.<br /> In all seriousness, this is a pretty fine record. I'll skip putting a poster of these guys on my wall (that's a frightful look), but Bergh certainly adds something worthy to his resume.<br /> On the strength of this debut, I can see the band continuing on for some time.<br /> Yes, this is pure European melodic metal with the furious double time drumming and wailing guitar riffs, wrapped up in a polished production.<br /> As the name suggests <b>Bloodbound</b> is certainly not a 'must-buy' for Street Talk fans – but tose with diverse tastes could find something new to enjoy here. Like all things involving Burgh, there is a certain class to the songwriting here and a definite melodic touch shining through.<br /> Tracks such as <font color="#ffff00">Behind The Moon, Nosferatu, Crucified</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Fallen From Grace</font> contain some great lead vocals and in tune with the furious guitar and rhythm onslaught are some strong melodies. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There is a lot of melodic metal on the market right now and thanks to the talents of those behind the name, <b>Bloodbound</b> offer one of the better examples from this genre. The extra attention to melodies and some strong lead vocals, not to mention the swirling keyboards of main-man Burgh help to create a pretty memorable album.<br /> As stated, one must have an ear for the sonically intense music on offer here. If it's something a little more laid back you are after, then grab <b>Street Talk</b> and relax! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Nosferatu</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Urban Breed:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tomas Olsson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Oskar Belin:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fredrik Bergh:</b> Keyboards, Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Swedish Melodic Metal</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Behind The Moon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Into The Dark<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nosferatu <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Metal Monster<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crucified <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desdemonamedia<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fallen From Grace <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Screams In The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For The King<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Battlefield<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Liberty & Justice</b> <font color="#ffffff">Soundtrack Of A Soul</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-158 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/libertyandjustice-soundtrackofasoul.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Liberty & Justice</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 65.51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">American Christian rockers <b>Liberty & Justice</b> – or more precisely, the man behind the name; <b>Justin Murr</b> returned from exile in 2004 with an album that had moments of greatness, but too many other parts that just didn't work.<br /> The inclusion of several rap based lead vocals were the worst offenders among some modern hard rock influences.<br /> Justin has learnt from those mistakes and the new album is better in every department.<br /> The songwriting is stronger and the production is certainly of a higher quality and more consistent.<br /> While the face of the band, Justin co-writes some of the music and provides some of the bass. The rest of the instrumentation and all lead vocals are provided by a long list of special guests.<br /> It is this that leads the album to appear a little disjointed. Its predecessor suffered the same problem.<br /> The album features some great songs but is enormously varied – from industrial to metal to AOR to acoustic – it still lacks a common bond to help it move from start to finish without too many bumps.<br /> The rap elements have been dispensed with, but the album still features some modern elements that some won't take to. Thankfully though, there are still some great melodies and lead vocal performances to bridge the gap between modern and traditional hard rock.<br /> What works within the album –<br /> The aggressive opening modern rocker <font color="#ffff00">Kings Of Hollywood</font>, with its semi-industrial vibe, has a thumping rhythm section and guitar riff, plus a forceful lead vocal from <b>Ez Gomer</b> of <b>Jet Circus</b>.<br /> The very melodic and commercial <font color="#ffff00">Stage Of Grace</font> features AOR favourite <b>Russell Arcara</b> who delivers another fine vocal. The track does sound a little out of place, but works.<br /> <b>Jamie Rowe</b> never disappoints and his acoustic ballad also impresses.<br /> <b>Leif Garrett</b> is one of the surprise guests of the album, His track – if this is possible – is an acoustic driven metal track which changes pace two or three times. It may not be the best track of the album, but it is certainly original.<br /> The aggressive <b>Starbreaker</b> style hard rock <font color="#ffff00">Flinch</font> featuring <b>Tony Harnell</b> is certainly a winner...there was never going to be much doubt there!<br /> <b>Mark Slaughter</b> and <b>Pete Loran</b> (of <b>Trixter</b>) make an interesting pair and their track rocks with a good punch.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Always Tomorrow</font> features a nice melodic vocal from <b>Ted Poley</b>, but is a little thin production wise.<br /> What really doesn't work –<br /> Surprisingly the <b>Sebastian Bach</b> fronted <font color="#ffff00">Another Nail</font> sees him deliver a vocal that doesn't sound anything like his usual fare.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Grenade</font> features <b>Dale & Tony Thompson</b> of <b>Bride</b> and is more or less just noisy metal and does my head in. Following on from a pure AOR track and an acoustic ballad, it seems lost at sea.<br /> <b>Oni Logan</b> sounds great, but his song <font color="#ffff00">Show Me The Way</font> lacks a decent hook.<br /> And why, oh why can't <b>Stephen Pearcy</b> record anything remotely melodic anymore? What is his fascination with industrial noise? <font color="#ffff00">Killer Grin</font> is another track avoid – unless you enjoyed Pearcy's last solo album.<br /> Helping supply the music is <b>Tommy Denander</b> (of course), <b>Tim Gaines, Mike Layne, Jamie Rowe, Sayit, Stephen DeAcutis, Mikkey Dee</b> and more. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A much better and more consistent album than <font color="#00ffff">Welcome To The Revolution</font>, this one features better performances and a much improved sound. It is still a little too varied and somewhat disjointed for every track to please every listener, but the highlights definitely outweigh the low points. Perhaps about 4 or 5 tracks too long. Ditch the ones I suggested didn't hold up on quality and you would get a modern hard rock album with little to complain about. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Armed With The Cross<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Guns<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="libertyandjustice-welcome.p3">Welcome to the Revolution</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soundtrack Of A Soul</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Various </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Liberty & Justice</b> - Welcome To The Revolution </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Intro<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kings of Hollywood <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Nail<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> State of Grace<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Malice in Wonderland <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Grenade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Show Me the Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sight Unseen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Up That Hill<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Surreal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flinch <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thy Will Be Done<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Killer Grin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If The World Could Be Mine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Always Tomorrow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hope & Pray / Ballad of King David<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make Believe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outro<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#408080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Platitude</b> <font color="#ffffff">Silence Speaks</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00015 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/platitude-silencespeaks.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Platitude</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42.30 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive Melodic Metal & AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Of all the European heavy music releases currently in circulation, it is two Swedish bands that really stand out from the crowd. One is <b>Bloodbound</b>, the other this – the third <b>Platitude</b> album.<br /> Yet another talented outfit to come out of Sweden, <b>Platitude</b> deliver a thoroughly memorable album that mixes the softer side of melodic metal and more straight forward AOR with a progressive rock twist.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Silence Speaks</font> is a hard hitting album with a powerhouse sound thanks to producer <b>Tommy Hansen</b> and the songwriting prowess of the band themselves.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nobody's Hero</font> mixes swirling keyboards with memorable guitar riffs and a varied rhythm section. At times the music travels on overdrive, other times the band lays a simple harmonious bed for the song to work from.<br /> At only 40 minutes in length, the band defies logic and crams the platter with so much music. Producer <b>Tommy Hansen</b> guarantees everything sounds in place and crystal clear.<br /> The guys have the musical chops of <b>Dream Theater</b> and <b>Royal Hunt</b>, yet the melodic touch of <b>Street Talk, Journey</b> and <b>TNT</b>.<br /> There are no fillers here – this is a very strong album from start to finish. But highlights if need to be picked are plenty - the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Tell The Truth</font>, which features the stark contrast of a pounding guitar and melodic keyboards; the progressive AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Silence Speaks</font>; the free-flowing uptempo progressive melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">Empty Inside</font>; the <b>Journey/Urban Tale</b> style AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Fear</font> and the double time prog meets AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Don't Be Afraid</font>.<br /> And I must also mention the at times furious riffing of <font color="#ffff00">Falling Down</font>, which gives way to another strong <b>Urban Tale</b> like AOR chorus. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A great production, some great songs and strong performances – all one can ask of any release. So if the description matches your taste – you will find one very fine album to enjoy here.<br /> This is a challenging one to roll into a simple description, but <b>Platitude</b> are progressive without being too complex, metal without being too bombastic and melodic without being too wimpy. It's a great combination that finds them in a unique position with a unique sound. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Secrets Of Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silence Speaks</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik "Ez" Blomkvist:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gustav Köllerström:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Brobjer:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Patrik Jansson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kristofer von Wachenfeldt:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dream Theater doing Journey</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Royal Hunt doing Urabn Tale</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell The Truth <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silence Speaks<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nobody's Hero <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Empty Inside <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear (It's Over Now) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Be Afraid<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk With Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#f2d16f" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Altaria</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Fallen Empire</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00017 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/altaria-thefallenempire.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jonas Kjellgren</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalheaven.com" target="new">Metal Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Yet more metal! Where is the AOR?! In its absence at least we are being supplied with some quality music of the heavier variety.<br /> Finland's <b>Altaria</b> continue to go from strength to strength, with a lot of touring and a regular recording schedule that delivers an album per year or so.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Fallen Empire</font> is the band's 3rd album. The band head in a slightly heavier direction than the last album, but maintain the melodic metal style that appears on all three releases.<br /> This is a solid and enjoyable album and delivers exactly what was expected. It is unremarkable in that respect, but every bit as consistent as fans expected. I prefer the last album for the fact I think it featured more memorale songs.<br /> A big time production sound helps the guys compete in the big pond, despite being on a small label.<br /> Former Dio guitarist <b>Rowan Robertson</b> and Sonata Arctica keyboardist <b>Henrik Klingenberg</b> guest on this album for a couple of solos.<br /> Highlights – The opening tracks <font color="#ffff00">Disciples</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Valley Of Rainbows</font> are two of the more immediate tracks on the album; <font color="#ffff00">The Lion</font> is a nice bit of classic metal and the epic 8 minute <font color="#ffff00">The Dying Flame</font> closes the album off without something a little more musically challenging. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Nothing jumps out and screams classic, but the album features some good songwriting and a solid performances throughout. For that reason, I believe fans of the band will walk away ever impressed with the band, but perhaps the guys will struggle to break any further new ground. <font color="#00ffff">The Fallen Empire</font> is definitely worth a listen if you are into European melodic soft metal, especially the Finnish brand of. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Invitation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Divinity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Fallen Empire</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Taage Laiho:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>J-P Alanen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Smedjebacka:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marko Pukkila:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Altaria</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Finnish Melodic Metal</b></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Disciples <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valley Of Rainbows <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Abyss Of Twilight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Frozenhearts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crucifix<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Showdown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Lion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outlaw Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chosen One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Access Denied<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Dyingflame <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff8000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Warrant</b> <font color="#ffffff">Born Again</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-154 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/warrant-bornagain.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Pat Regan</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45.02</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> March 31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>74%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a tough one for <b>Warrant</b>. It has been several years since their last album, so the material has to impress. The band has a new lead singer, so he must also impress.<br /> The band has, during their lifespan, had a couple of very distinct styles, from the stadium rock of <font color="#00ffff">Cherry Pie</font> to the more aggressive <font color="#00ffff">Dog Eat Dog</font> and then the grunge flavored <font color="#00ffff">Ultraphobic</font>.<br /> <b>Warrant's</b> legion of fans all has their own favorites, so along with the other challenges, the guys are under pressure to deliver a record that will please the majority. I don't think they have pulled it off.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Born Again</font> sees the band back in a more traditional melodic hard rock vein akin to the band's first two albums. But new singer <b>Jamie St. James</b> has an obvious influence over this album. While the sound of the band's first records may be rekindled, St. James brings the style and flair of his history with <b>Black N Blue</b> to the band and it is this aspect which is the main influence over the sound of the album. It is more <b>Black N Blue</b> than it is <b>Warrant</b>.<br /> Personally, I don't see this as the problem and think the sound the guys have settled into does suit them and isn't out of character for how <b>Warrant</b> should or could sound like in 2006.<br /> I actually think the album sounds great – the production courtesy of <b>Pat Regan</b> lives up to his consistently high standards and the honest, somewhat simplified rock n roll sound gives the record a nice edge.<br /> What I do have an issue with is the songwriting. A great album must have a great sound, strong performances and knock out songs.<br /> I don't think <font color="#00ffff">Born Again</font> features enough knockouts. In fact I'd rate only 2 or 3 songs as truly great Warrant tracks and the rest I rate as just ok. Not bad, but certainly not strong enough to knock all fans off their feet after such a gap between albums.<br /> Of those tracks that impress, <font color="#ffff00">Hell, CA</font> is probably the best of all, with a typically strong harmonic display on a song that fits the persona of the band and also features a good hook.<br /> Other highlights include <font color="#ffff00">Dirty Jack</font>, which is a strong hard edged rocker, but has more <b>AC/DC</b> in it than traditional Warrant.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rollercoaster</font> has a certain attitude and a strong hard rocking guitar sound; <font color="#ffff00">Down In Diamonds</font> has a strong chorus and <font color="#ffff00">Velvet Noose</font> is, like <font color="#ffff00">Hell CA</font>; driven by strong harmonies.<br /> Of all the songs, the closing number <font color="#ffff00">Good Times</font> probably rocks harder than any and could be an example of what the album needed more of. Elsewhere the songs just don't fire my imagination and lack some decent hooks to drive repeat plays. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> I have lived with this album for nearly 3 months now and my opinion has barely altered from that first week. Those that take to it with the most enthusiasm will probably be those that had no expectations going into it. Those <b>Warrant</b> fans that were looking for a modern day classic will likely be the most disappointed. An ok album, but not one that is going to impress everyone – especially after such a long time coming. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinkin Rich<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cherry Pie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dog Eat Dog<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ultraphobic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Belly To Belly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Greatest And Latest<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under The Influence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born Again</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaime St. James:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Allen, Erik Turner:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steven Sweet:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jerry Dixon:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Black N Blue</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Warrant</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Devils Juice <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty Jack<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bourbon County Line<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hell, CA. <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angels<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Strikes Like Lightning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Glimmer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Roller Coaster<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down In Diamonds <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Velvet Noose <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Roxy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Times<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cec122" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Shadowman</b> <font color="#ffffff">Different Angles</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM127 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/shadowman-differentangles.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Steve Morris</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52.16</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> March 10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>89%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I was initially in two minds about this release – influenced I think by the amount of metal in the market place currently. It seemed just a little too laid back. But then I realized that is the whole point. This is laid back...it's also soulful, bluesy and filled with some glorious old-school AOR melodies.<br /> In between all these European melodic metal releases it is so nice to hear some high quality traditional AOR once again, served up in a finely polished package.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Different Angles</font> is a very apt title for the second <b>Shadowman</b> album. Band principles <b>Steve Overland</b> (FM) and <b>Steve Morris</b> (Heartland) have opted for a slight change of approach this time around.<br /> The more straight forward AOR of that debut has been re-tuned to showcase a bluesier, more laid back direction. The bulk of the material retains the trademarks of the acclaimed debut, but skewers it into a more soulful package and one I must say suits the band very well.<br /> Even the more uptempo numbers are delivered in a soulful spirit. Mood plays an important part in these songs, so the listener must be in a similar frame of mind to reap the rewards of some strong material.<br /> An album that appears very laid back gathers a little extra pace once you get to know it, but overall the material does remain between slow and mid-tempo. Song wise, <font color="#ffff00">Learn To Live Without You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">When It's Gone It's Gone</font> are two of the tracks which most reflect the sound of the debut, while the soulful <font color="#ffff00">Take Me Home</font> is a perfect example of the sultry vocal delivery of <b>Overland</b> and like many of the tracks, steps up a notch during the choruses.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Way Of The World</font> is totally subliminal until the chorus brings a fresh burst of energy to the track, highlighting Overland's pitch perfect vocals.<br /> The album dips a little for a couple of tracks in the middle, but the uptempo AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Chains</font> offers perhaps the most urgent track of the album and a nice lift in pace and is followed nicely by the memorable <font color="#ffff00">Dreams Die Hard</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Runaway Girl</font> is similarly laid back, but driven almost entirely by acoustic guitars and offers Overland fans something a little different. Some sweet harmony vocals make it an enjoyable track.<br /> The album closes on a high note with another more urgent AOR track that might have been something from the debut. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Fans of the debut will be as equally impressed with the follow-up, which for me offers just that little bit more now that the direction is more defined. Perhaps it is the presence of some stronger material, or perhaps it is the added value of timing - being a pure AOR album when there are few others offering the same. Either way, this is a very polished and high quality collection of soulful AOR from one of the best voices in the business. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="shadowman.p3">Land Of The Living</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Different Angles</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Overland:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Morris:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harry James:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Childs:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>FM</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Ladder</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Ladder</b> - Future Miracles</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Learn To Live Without You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Me Home <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cry Wolf<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Its Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way Of The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Shadows<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Did It For Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chains <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreams Die Hard <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Runaway Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Satellite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine On<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#caa54d" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Main Attraction</b> <font color="#ffffff">Keep On Coming Back</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-155 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mainattraction-keeponcomingback.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Bennech Lyngboe</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.56</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Main Attraction's</b> frontman is <b>Bennech Lyngboe</b> – half of the duo that delivered the wonderful first <b>On The Rise</b> album. Sadly the partnership did not last and On The Rise continues without Bennech.<br /> He moves onto <b>Main Attraction</b>, concentrating this time on delivering just the vocals, leaving the guitar and keyboard work here to <b>Ronny Heimdal</b>.<br /> This is one album that took some time to click. I never rush a review if I'm not sure about a title and this is definitely one I am glad I lived with a little longer. My initial assessment was not favorable. While I still have a few issues to raise, my opinion is far more favorable now that I have lived with this and really gotten to know it.<br /> First impressions of this album lead me to think that it sounded unfinished. The production was not as clean as it was with On The Rise and certain songs featured just didn't gel.<br /> The truth is that this project is definitely rawer and more simplified than the multi-layered <b>On The Rise</b> album. The beauty of the songs does shine through, but that said, a little further polish in some areas might have made an even better release.<br /> There are some parts where the guitar doesn't appear evenly mixed and a couple of places where the keyboard parts are actually more annoying then helpful. <font color="#ffff00">Until You</font> is the main offender here – it features a great melody, but the keyboards take time to grow on you.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Calling You</font> is one where the guitar parts perhaps could have used some refinement and <font color="#ffff00">Over The Top</font> at times feels like the guitars could have been rearranged for better result.<br /> Bennech has a likeable voice, but it doesn't always come across comfortably. It sounds a little forced in places and the Scandinavian accent can also be very strong, not to mention it sounds like some of the high notes are struggled with.<br /> On the positive side of things, I can comfortably say is that there is some highly enjoyable melodic rock songs featured on this album. I wouldn't say they are immediate but they grow on you after a few spins and continue to offer something new each time the record is played.<br /> Highlights include the opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Calm Before The Storm</font>, the very AOR friendly <font color="#ffff00">Only One</font> and the wonderfully lush, sultry harmonies of <font color="#ffff00">Blue Jeans Girls</font>.<br /> Additionally, the hooks and melodies throughout the album are actually quite involved, so this record remains fresh for a good while after others are normally known inside out. A couple of nice ballads are featured, the best being <font color="#ffff00">Under My Skin</font>, which will certainly appeal to fans of <b>On The Rise</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Overall an album that requires some time with before you come to know its best qualities. A little rough around the edges yes, but fuelled by some very catchy AOR tracks. So much so, that there are a few tracks which are simply not removable from one's memory. That's a big plus in my book. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep On Coming Back</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bennech Lyngboe:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronny Heimdal:</b> Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Zsolt Meszaros:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jan Martin Kleveland:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scandi AOR</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>On The Rise</b> - On The Rise</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Calm Before The Storm <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Remember <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Until You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Man In Change<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under My Skin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Over The Top<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep On Coming Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Up The Wall<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Jean Girls <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beyond The Edge<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a02510" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ian Parry</b> <font color="#ffffff">Visions</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM126 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ianparry-visions.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ian Parry</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.12</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> March 10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock / Symphonic Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">It has been a while between solo drinks for vocalist <b>Ian Parry</b> – 10 years in fact! He wastes no time sliding back into the contemporary metal scene by hooking up with members of <b>Vanden Plas, Elergy, Within Temptation</b> and <b>Kamelot</b>.<br /> 2 years in the making, the result is a tough, hard hitting contemporary European melodic metal release that I think all Parry fans will be happy with. Something that stands out for me is the expanded use of backing vocals and a more dramatic role for the keyboards, which is something being used to great effects by a number of currently hot metal acts.<br /> In Parry's own words, he stated that he wanted to try something more modern and commercial while retaining past influences of progressive rock and symphonic metal.<br /> That he has done – this is a very dramatic record, but one that also features some complex material set around several other tracks which have almost immediate commercial appeal.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Innocent Minds</font> features a female lead vocal alongside Ian (name uncredited on promo copy) as well as at various other times throughout the album in a backing capacity. The song is very contemporary and reminds me of <b>Lana Lane / Nightwish</b> style metal sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Angels</font> features an <b>Evanescence</b> friendly sound and a massive chorus for a metal song, backed with female harmony vocals. <font color="#ffff00">Another Day</font> is a big symphonic ballad and <font color="#ffff00">Fallin'</font> follows a similar path.<br /> Taking a definite side step away from the rest of the album is the modern high-tech sounds of <font color="#ffff00">Slip Away</font>, a soft ballad filled with production effects and samples.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lovin' A Stranger</font> shows further diversity with a dramatic flurry of guitars and a sound approach more akin to a film score.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No Man's Land</font> changes the course of the album again, offering up a piano ballad, with the commercial hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Visions</font> closing out the album. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A definite strength of this album is the choruses and by default the songwriting. But the efforts put into production and updating the sound on this album should not be played down.<br /> The tweaking of Parry's approach sees him deliver a very contemporary melodic metal release which should find favor with new and old fans alike. I think this is one of the more stand out releases from a long career. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Symphony Of Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Artistic Licence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thru' The Looking Glass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadowman – Best Of<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Visions</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ian Parry:</b> Lead, Harmony, Choir & Backing Vocals, Keyboard/ Synthesizer Programming<br /> Remaining Line-up: <a href="/files-archive/reviews/showcase/ianparry-visions.html">See here</a>. </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ian Parry</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Consortium Project</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vanden Plas</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nightwish</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Innocent Minds <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anything So Easily<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fools Don't Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Angels <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Day (She Will Be Loved) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fallin' <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Smiley People<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Slip Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovin' A Stranger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Mans Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Visions <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#ff2d2d" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sora</b> <font color="#ffffff">Demented Honour</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-157 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/sora-dementedhonour.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Erol Sora</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.30 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock / Classic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Sora's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Demented Honour</font> is the album released independently by <b>Erol Sora</b> last year.<br /> <b>MTM</b> have wisely picked it up for wider release, which means more melodic hard rock lovers are likely to hear this and impressed you will be.<br /> The moniker has changed to just <b>Sora</b>, as if to project a band name over an individual artist. It is a shame this even has to be considered, as it seems true that band projects sell better than releases attributed to a solo artist.<br /> But cut through whatever name issues and you will find that <font color="#00ffff">Demented Honour</font> is a smoking classic rock album.<br /> I say classic rock, as the style of this album is very much influenced by the likes of <b>UFO, Deep Purple</b> and 70's rock in general, dressed up in a melodic friendly package with a strong production sound and balanced mix.<br /> <b>Erol Sora</b> provides all vocals and guitars, not to mention all the music – he is truly the backbone of the entire record and for that reason his performance should be praised.<br /> His lead vocals are very likable and on more than one occasion mirror the tone of <b>Phil Mogg</b> of <b>UFO</b>. He has also spent a great deal of time working with <b>John Lawton</b> of <b>Uriah Heep</b> fame and those influences shine through.<br /> That warmth is carried through into some great songs. The opening hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Highway To Nowhere</font> and the stomping <font color="#ffff00">Guilty</font> get the record off to a flying start and then the bluesier <font color="#ffff00">Barstool Corner</font> and the double-time blues rocker <font color="#ffff00">One Way Ticket</font> offers classic <b>UFO</b> fans more joy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">NYC</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Piece Of Paper</font> show another side of <b>Sora</b>, with acoustic influences offering a change in pace. The album closes with the double take of a feel good rocker <font color="#ffff00">If You Ever Needed Love</font> and a more introspective acoustic influenced track <font color="#ffff00">Rain</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> As a solo artist <b>Erol Sora</b> may not share the fame of those he is compared to, but one listen to this album and he should begin to pick up fans from those aforementioned artists as well as a whole range of fans of his very own. A very good classic hard rock record. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Demented Honour</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erol Sora:</b> Vocals & Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lance Chalmers:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Dahl:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gregory Macdonald:</b> Organ</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>UFO</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Deep Purple</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Highway To Nowhere <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guilty <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Along The Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Barstool Corner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> NYC<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Way Ticket <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Piece Of Paper<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If You Ever Need Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rain<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#437c69" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pump</b> <font color="#ffffff">Breakdown To Breakthrough</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00018 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/pump-breakdowntobreakthrough.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tommy Newton</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.53 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal / Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#ff8000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">European melodic metal is everywhere right now – from <b>Altaria</b> to <b>Faro</b> and several others in between. There just seems to be a huge influx of acts and releases. <b>Pump</b> are another new act, but one with a debut album already to their name. I haven't heard that, but <font color="#00ffff">Breakdown To Breakthrough</font> offers enough to impress and will establish the guys as another name to watch within this scene.<br /> Produced by acclaimed studio wiz <b>Tommy Newton</b>, the record sounds every bit as good as things should in this day and age.<br /> A pounding rhythm section is matched by a sonically effective guitar onslaught and a clear lead vocal.<br /> I wouldn't say that the lead vocals of <b>Marcus Jürgens</b> are always the most engaging I have heard, but once you get to know them, they have a definite likeability.<br /> His rough and sometimes gruff approach rules most of the record, but when at times he softens his approach such as on <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Deny</font>, a certain <b>David Coverdale</b> feel is revealed.<br /> At first the tracks sound a little same-ish and better courses is the place they could improve, but tracks like <font color="#ffff00">Revolution On My Mind, Blood On The Blade, Headstrong</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Heaven High</font> are all very good examples of European hard rock. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Pump</b> are in a similar boat to fellow German rockers <b>Faro</b>. They have a great sounding record and have all the potential needed to survive in this scene. And like <b>Faro, Pump</b> rock, but need a few more memorable songs to help them stand even further out from the crowd. This is a very enjoyable album that gets better with time and I think it will establish the band as one to watch. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Against Everyone's Advice<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breakdown To Breakthrough</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcus Jürgens:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ulli Hauff, Axel Reissmann:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Achim "Animal" Keller:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stephan Buerk:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Altaria</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Faro</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Revolution On My Mind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blood On The Blade <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Deny<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Does It Feel?<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alright Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headstrong<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bulletride <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven High <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who Made You A Madman<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Miss Crazy</b> <font color="#ffffff">Miss Crazy</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Mayhem Music</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/misscrazy.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ronnie Borchert</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 33.16 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> American Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.metalmayhem.com" target="new">Metal Mayhem</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This album smokes from the first seconds to the last beat. It's great to hear an album such as this in 2006 – definitive old school American hard rock – with such a solid production and sound.<br /> Normally such albums are taken from the vaults or just don't have the sonic quality they deserve due to perceived current day budget restrictions. The reality is you don't need a lot of money to make a great album if you have the studio and the guy that knows how to work it.<br /> In <b>Miss Crazy's</b> case, the production is handled by <b>Trixie's Ronnie Borchert</b>, who probably makes the band sound even better than what they are thanks to a clear, live in the studio feel.<br /> Fans of late 80s stadium hard rock in the vein of <b>Cinderella, War Babies, Britny Fox & AC/DC</b> are going to eat this up.<br /> The upper range squeal of vocalist <b>Markus Allen Christopher</b> is not a world away from the likes of <b>Tom Keifer</b> and <b>Julliet's Kenny McGee</b>. His rasp is all over this record and is at times mixed with fine harmonies reminiscent of the <b>Def Leppard</b> approach used on the <b>Trixie</b> records.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">No Compromise</font> is a take no prisoners rocker with a great ballsy sound, leading into <font color="#ffff00">Billie</font> which delivers a killer chorus. <font color="#ffff00">You're Blue</font> slows things down for a few minutes and reminds me of the heavy ballads from the <b>War Babies</b> debut.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Scream</font> then takes the tempo back into overdrive before <font color="#ffff00">So Long</font> adds more <b>Cinderella</b> style melody.<br /> Did I mention there are plenty of guitar solos on offer? <b>B.B. Michaels</b> and <b>Manfred Swann</b> are the guys to thank for that. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There is only 33 minutes of music here, so the band cannot afford to offer up a single filler, but thankfully they don't. There is nothing new at all here, but the band's attitude and the fact that so few new albums like this are made in this day and age and the fact that it is made so well mean that it does stand out from the pack.<br /> With so many metal albums on the market, it's great to have the opportunity to dive into some old school party hard rock. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Miss Crazy</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Markus Allen Christopher:</b> Vocals & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>B.B. Michaels, Manfred Swann:</b> Guitars & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>D.T. Harvey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kim Racer:</b> Bass & Backing Vocals </font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Cinderella, War Babies, Britny Fox</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Trixie</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> No Compromise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Billie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hide Island<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life's Been Good<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're Blue <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So Long <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shut Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Baby Let's Go<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#6081b7" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Frost</b> <font color="#ffffff">Out In The Cold</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Mausoleum</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">251070 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/frost-outinthecold.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jack Frost</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.24 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Guitarist <b>Jack Frost</b> has a great album to his name here. Nice to hear a metaller easing off just a little to create a hard rock record. Mind you – this is still one of the heavier hard rock records you might here!<br /> This record retains all the sonic power and intensity that Frost is known for and as per usual you can count on a flurry of drum beats, wailing guitar riffs and powerhouse solos.<br /> The album is a mix of originals and a few classic rock covers. What is unusual about this album is the choice of lead singers. Several are used, but the inclusion of melodic rock favorites <b>Ted Poley</b> and <b>Terry Ilous</b> might raise the biggest response.<br /> Poley appears on three tracks – one original and two covers. All rock more than anyone has heard Poley rock before, with his trademark tone stretched to its full limit to match the intensity called for.<br /> I am pleased to say that he does it well. The opening melodic metal track <font color="#ffff00">Wasting Your Luv</font> has an aggressive edge and was written by Poley with Frost. His other tracks are a cover of the <b>April Wine</b> track <font color="#ffff00">Sign Of The Gypsy Soul</font> and <b>The Babys'</b> <font color="#ffff00">Head First</font> – where he does a great <b>John Waite</b> style vocal.<br /> <b>Terry Ilous</b> appears on a track written by the pair, which suggests more might need to be heard of these two together. He also signs a rocked up version of <b>Foreigner's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Cold As Ice</font>, which is a little rough around the edges.<br /> Other interesting tracks include a gruff metal version of the <b>38 Special</b> track <font color="#ffff00">Hold On Loosely</font> sung by Frost himself; a haunting ballad <font color="#ffff00">Passage To The Classical Side</font> featuring <b>Eric Rango</b> and the most metal track of all <font color="#ffff00">Covered In Blood</font>, featuring <b>Jeff Martin</b> on vocals. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> A varied album of melodic metal and hard rock with vocalists ranging from smooth to gruff. But consistent throughout is the performance from Frost, which sees metalheads and guitar freaks catered for. Consistent also is the quality of the songs and the wise choices in cover versions. All in all, it makes for a pretty enjoyable ride – albeit, a very loud ride! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Raise Your Fist For Metal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out In The Cold</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Various</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Seven Witches</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frost</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Wasting Your Luv <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hell Or High Water <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crucifixation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out In The Cold <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sign Of The Gypsy Queen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Peter And Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold As Ice <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Covered In Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On Loosely<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Passage To The Classical Side<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Head First <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808080" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Danny Tate</b> <font color="#ffffff">Destination X</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Noville Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">DTDESTX2005 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/dannytate-destinationx.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Danny Tate</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.13 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Midwestern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.dannytate.com" target="new">Danny Tate</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">One time major label pop/rocker <b>Danny Tate</b> returns with a brand new long awaited solo album.<br /> Like fellow label star <b>Billy Falcon</b>, Danny had an all too brief stint at making his talents known and has since returned to session work and songwriting. But like Billy, Danny can also see the merit in releasing albums independently and has done just that with <font color="#00ffff">Destination X</font>.<br /> This album is a classy affair and will definitely find some fans. By choice of style it does limit itself to those with certain tastes, but it remains a great album. Fans of Americana – that stripped back, acoustic driven sound that isn't quite pop or rock and touches on country – will be the main beneficiaries of this release.<br /> Regardless of style there are some fine melodic songs on offer here. The title track is a smooth, sultry acoustic mid-tempo track; <font color="#ffff00">Real</font> features strings and a Gregg Fulkerson style vocal; <font color="#ffff00">Catch The Wind</font> is a fine uptempo number with a little 38 Special vibe in there. But of all the songs, <font color="#ffff00">Talking To Me</font> is the standout for me – a lush Midwestern ballad with a brooding vocal and a passionate chorus hook. Also of note is the bluesy <font color="#ffff00">Dark Side Of Love</font>, co-written with <b>Kenny Wayne Shepherd</b>.<br /> An album well worth the purchase price for lovers of Midwestern Americana. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#77bbbb" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cry Havoc</b> <font color="#ffffff">Refuel</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD064 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/cryhavoc-refuel.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Rico & Cry Havoc</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.22</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.majesticrock.com" target="new">Majestic Rock</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Scottish rockers <b>Cry Havoc</b> saw their debut album released about 2 minutes before label troubles saw it disappear.<br /> <b>Majestic Rock</b> stepped into the frame in 2005 and bingo, it is now re-released with some added bonuses.<br /> On top of the original album <font color="#00ffff">Fuel That Feeds The Fire</font>, comes the bonus disc <font color="#00ffff">Live At The Cathouse</font>, a self recorded bootleg that features 6 tracks – one of which is a never released track.<br /> Cool for collectors and even better that the bootleg is of ok quality.<br /> The album itself is re-titled to Refuel and features a fairly traditional straight ahead British melodic rock style, albeit with some good musical ideas and some strong songs.<br /> I said this in my review of the original:<br /> <br /> "The album opens with one of the better intro's I have heard for a while, but it doesn't translate into the big epic rocker it hints at. Nevertheless, the opening track <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be There</font> gives a good indication of what these guys are all about.<br /> <b>Cry Havoc</b> play a brand of high-octane guitar driven stadium rock, with all the attitude you might expect, some nice arrangements and a tendency for the big sound – you know, big drums, big guitars, big vocals.<br /> The only trouble is that the mix leaves things a little flat, rather than helping the band realize their big sound. The band has been captured well, but it hasn't been pieced together with the same expertise.<br /> The drum sound especially is powerful, but doesn't really sit well within the album's overall sound. There is something just not quite right about the mix. There are some great melodic rock songs – <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be There, Forever Once Again, Rescue Me</font> and the moody rocker <font color="#ffff00">Fuel That Feeds The Fire</font>.<br /> The harmony vocals are a highlight of the album, as are the vocals in general; it's just that slightly programmed feel, or poor mix of the rhythm section that throws things out. There's also a slight lack of variation in pace and style within the album."<br /> <br /> What would I change from these comments? Not too much, but I might give extra credit for the songwriting, which does deliver and fills a definite market. I'm looking forward to the new album and know it will both sound vastly better production wise and offer a lot more song and performance wise, as the guys haven't stopped playing and doing sessions since this was originally recorded – so you just know the guys are going to be tighter and a bigger recording budget will reap rewards for the band and for fans. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Dean Howard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Volume One</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/deanhoward-volumeone.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Dean Howard</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 59.31 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/gb.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Rock / Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.dean-howard.info" target="new">Dean Howard</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>73%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>70%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">British guitarist <b>Dean Howard</b> has a solid album on his hands here. Not really melodic rock, nor hard rock or modern rock….a mesh of styles in a contemporary vein is my best description.<br /> It generally rocks though and features a nice display of riffing and soloing and some dark raspy vocals. Guest vocalists make an appearance on three tracks. <font color="#ffff00">What I Need</font> features <b>Thunder's Danny Bowes</b> on a mid-tempo blues rocker that will appeal to his fanbase.<br /> <b>Little Angels</b> frontman <b>Toby Jepson</b> makes an appearance on <font color="#ffff00">Cacophony</font>, a swaggering track with a jazzy edge. Not his usual fare, but what a great voice.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Smokescreen</font> features Purple frontman <b>Ian Gillan</b> on a bluesy song that kind of defies explanation – as do several other tracks here.<br /> This isn't always an easy album to listen to; it is very diverse and complex in parts.<br /> It requires time and patience to get into and it also requires the listener to be open minded and appreciative of diversity. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#06bcf9" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Christian Tolle Project</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Real Thing</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">CTM002 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ctp-therealthing.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Christian Tolle</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41.13 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.christiantolle.com" target="new">Christian Tolle</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>82%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I would have preferred to get to this review earlier, but better late than never…<br /> Christian is a good songwriter and this; his new solo album captures 10 interesting songs and some memorable performances. The album features a warm earthy vocal and a strong guitar sound which switches from modern/contemporary to classic/melodic.<br /> When it rocks (<font color="#ffff00">Enemy, The Flow</font>) is does so with energy and when it turns melodic (<font color="#ffff00">The Real Thing, On And On</font>) it does so with soul.<br /> The production is strong and the mix very clean – high quality for an indie release. Style may vary – it's a very diverse album that also takes in some groove and some southern rock, but it is always consistent.<br /> Guest stars include <b>Doug Aldrich, Lauren Scheff, Chuck Wright, Steve Lukather</b> and <b>Tim Pierce</b>. Of particular interest to <b>Toto</b> fans will be the inclusion of a cover of the Lukather solo track <font color="#ffff00">Swear Your Love</font>.<br /> Comparing it to anyone is difficult, so sample it if you are into strong guitar performances with vocals to accompany. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Phil & John Show</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cover Art</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">50305 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/philandjohnshow-coverart.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Phil & John</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70.31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.thephilandjohnshow.com" target="new">Phil & John</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Phil and John are of course Canadians <b>Phil Naro</b> and <b>John Rogers</b> – he of <b>Brighton Rock</b> fame. The duo are playing across Canada as an acoustic duo – both singing and strumming those guitars. This album reflects that – totally stripped back to just the two vocalists with two acoustic guitars.<br /> The material featured is all covers – featuring songs almost entirely from the classic rock era such as <b>The Beatles, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, Yes, Foreigner, Deep Purple</b> and <b>Pink Floyd</b>.<br /> Included here are such classics as help, <font color="#ffff00">Smoke On The Water, Only Women Bleed, Waiting For A Girl Like You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Dirty White Boy</font>. Songs so well known, I don't even have to spell out who originally performed them.<br /> One curious cover is my favourite track of the album – a cover of the brilliant <b>Brighton Rock</b> ballad <font color="#ffff00">One More Try</font>. The glorious harmonies here are almost worth the price of admission alone.<br /> In summary, a nice album that is performed with respect and love – but also an album mainly for established fans of the pair and those with a soft spot for good acoustic performances. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808040" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Starship (Featuring Mickey Thomas)</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live!</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Universal</font></h4> <h4><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font></h4> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Duo Japan</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">UPCD-1466 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/starship-live.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="62%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 69.54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I threw down my hard earnt cash for this Japanese only release and came up with mixed feelings. Most of the negative feelings come from the price paid for this – I don't think it is at all worth the all too expensive price of a Japanese import.<br /> However, fans will find this is a largely satisfying set of songs fronted by one of the most loved singers of this genre. The band – which really is just the <b>Mickey Thomas</b> band – covers the classics well, my personal favorites being <font color="#ffff00">It's Not Over, Jane, Wild Again</font> and <font color="#ffff00">No Way Out</font>.<br /> There is the required fluff pieces <font color="#ffff00">We Built This City, Sara</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now</font> and the cover <font color="#ffff00">Fooled Around And Fell In Love</font>.<br /> Take out the fluff and you are down to 8 tracks of a decent live recording. It's nice and raw – no overdubs, but simply not long enough for a full price release. If this gets a cheaper US release, I say go for it, otherwise not worth the cash. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jorn</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Duke</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AFM Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/jorn-theduke.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Jorn Lande + Jörn Viggo Lofstad</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal / Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.jornlande.com" target="new">Jorn Lande</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>95%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">After delivering what I considered to be the two finest albums of 2006, the amazing <b>Jorn Lande</b> fires back with his forth solo album. <font color="#00ffff">The Duke</font> is a more straight ahead melodic metal outing than the progressive leaning <font color="#00ffff">Out To Every Nation</font> and is more musically aligned with his band of the moment <b>Masterplan</b>.<br /> Featuring a powerhouse metal line up, <font color="#00ffff">The Duke</font> features 10 in your face rocking tracks with only a couple of moments where proceedings slow down in any form.<br /> Each of Jorn's solo albums have had different elements of appeal and it is hard to pick any one over another.<br /> This album is on par with Jorn's best and is perhaps his most consistent and cohesive solo album to date, with no deviations from the musical purpose of the record. No experimental moments here – this is pure smoking hard rock n roll!<br /> <font color="#00ffff">The Duke</font> best represents what <b>Jorn</b> the singer is. Smoking melodic metal sung with soul and passion and that unmistakable comparison to <b>David Coverdale</b>, only more vibrant and energetic!<br /> The only criticisms I have is the fact the material doesn't explore any new ground for Jorn whatsoever. All in all, the album is fairly predictable and that there are really only 8 new songs here. <font color="#ffff00">Starfire</font> is from Jorn's solo debut and <font color="#ffff00">Are You Ready</font> is a straight forward cover of the <b>Thin Lizzy</b> classic.<br /> Highlights include the powerful metal anthem <font color="#ffff00">We Brought The Angels Down</font>; the very melodic, yet in your face metal of <font color="#ffff00">Blacksong</font>; the double kick rum fuelled rocker <font color="#ffff00">Stormcrow</font>; and <font color="#ffff00">End Of Time</font>, which features a dark mood, but a real swagger and some powerful layered vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Duke Of Love</font> is an unusual track – it is a very commercial slice of hard rock with a catchy chorus, but for some reason I have had trouble warming to it.<br /> One track on from that is <font color="#ffff00">Burning Chains</font>, a track which features Jorn's best Coverdale vocal yet. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <font color="#00ffff">The Duke</font> is another highly enjoyable release from Jorn and is perhaps his most consistent solo record yet. But it is also one that doesn't quite match expectations – which admittedly were very high and personally I still rate <font color="#00ffff">Worldchanger</font> as my favourite.<br /> It is a sonically amazing record, with a razor sharp sound and powerful delivery, driven by a solid collection of songs which includes a few truly great numbers. But my favourite Jorn albums remain those featuring the singer at work with others, such as <b>Millenium, Allen/Lande</b> and of course <b>Masterplan</b>. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-starfire.html">Starfire</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-worldchanger.p3">Worldchanger</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-outtoeverynation.p3">Out To Every Nation</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="allenlande-thebattle.p3">Allen/Lande</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Duke</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jorn Lande:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jorn Viggo Lofstad, Tore Moren:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Willy Bendiksen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Morty Black:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jorn Lande</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Masterplan</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alen/Lande</b> - The Battle</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Masterplan</b> - Masterplan</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> We Brought The Angels Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blacksong <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stormcrow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Duke Of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning Chains <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The Dying<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Madness<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Are You Ready<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Starfire (2005 version)<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Faro</b> <font color="#ffffff">Angelost</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-152 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/faro-angelost.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Faro & Markus Taske</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47.39 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> European Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>78%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">I have repeatedly lamented the missing production quality in some lesser name releases. German rockers <b>Faro</b> certainly isn't one of those – this album has a nice full sound and a pounding rhythm section.<br /> However the key to a killer album is a great sound and great songs. Faro has the sound down, but I feel they fall a little short when it comes to the songwriting.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Angelost</font> is a very enjoyable album. It is extremely well played, features some fine solos and a strong lead vocal and is as good as any other German hard rock bands on the scene at the moment.<br /> Featuring members from <b>Firewind, Jaded Heart</b> and <b>Bonfire</b>, you just know you will get a quality performance. But once the album is finished, you realize there is an small element missing - the extra ingredient that draws the listener back in for more. There are no real surprises here and there isn't anything featured that I have not heard before.<br /> That said I still want to give the guys credit in several departments. As stated, the sound quality is excellent and one can tell the band has taken every effort to present a high quality European hard rock album to their fans.<br /> Secondly, <font color="#00ffff">Angelost</font> is a better album than the band's debut album in most departments.<br /> The songs are stronger, the delivery more professional and the performances easily outshine the debut. They are definitely on the right path forward. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Faro</b> has grown in maturity from their debut, which is all you can ask of any band. They deliver a solid and enjoyable European melodic hard rock record which should find some fans. Those already on board from the debut will certainly be impressed.<br /> What they need to do now is come back with an album that features some more memorable choruses and a twist in the delivery that will set them apart from several other bands already nailing this kind of style. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Dawn Of Forever<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angelost</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chitral "Chity" Somapala:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barish Kepic:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dominik Hülshorst:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Müller:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>German melodic hard rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jaded Heart</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Desdemona <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desert Moon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World Of Fools <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Forbidden Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heavenly Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strange Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damned Eternally<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Did It Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Destination<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancing in the Dark<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Square One</b> <font color="#ffffff">Supersonic</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Stay Gold Japan</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ARTSG-009 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/squareone-supersonic.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Endel Rivers & Square One</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46.03 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Power Pop</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.squareonemusic.com" target="new">Square One</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>92%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Australia has a new power pop sensation. After a long time writing and recording, Melbourne's <b>Square One</b> signed a European deal which never eventuated.<br /> Thank God then the guys secured a Japanese deal which saw their debut album released there in December.<br /> I heard the demos, so I know these guys could write a tune. <font color="#00ffff">Supersonic</font> gathers 13 of their best tracks into one of the best debut albums I have heard in a long while – not only from an Aussie band, but from any band.<br /> The guys have a unique style that blends some of the rock attitude acquired from the Aussie pop rock circuit with some super smooth modern power pop influences such as <b>BBMak, Rubber, Click Five</b> and scene luminaries <b>Cheap Trick</b>.<br /> A strong guitar presence dishing out some very tasteful riffs and chords drives the band's sound, which is relatively simple and straight forward. This 4 piece instead rely on their great songs and a super crisp sound to impress the listener.<br /> The album just gets better and better with each listen. The instantly likable pop anthems such as <font color="#008000">Wings To Fly, Love Struck Melody</font> (surely a hit single) and <font color="#008000">Tonight</font> are soon equaled by the more subtle, but equally addictive album tracks such as <font color="#008000">Sweet September, Colour Me Blue</font> and <font color="#008000">Supersonic</font>.<br /> The harmonies are lush and surround some of the catchiest and most addictive choruses this side of <b>Rubber</b>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Power pop fans simply won't find anything better on offer in this genre anywhere. I hate to use the word modern, as this album is as classic in its style as it is in its songs, but is also contemporary enough to find its way onto today's pop and rock radio programming – given half the chance.<br /> The album deserves to be heard by anyone who has previously indulged in <b>Savage Garden, TaxiRide</b> or the aforementioned bands.<br /> Pop/rock perfection! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Supersonic</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jason Old:</b> Vocals & Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stevie Janevski, Mikal Saleta:</b> Guitars & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ben Wignall :</b> Drums & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Burns:</b> Bass & Vocals</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>BBMak</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>TaxiRide</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rubber</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sweet September <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wings To Fly <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hazy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Struck Melody <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Free Flow Feeling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Colour Me Blue <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dizzy Colour Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Supersonic <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ups And Downs<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll Hysteria<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seven Witches (Japanese Only Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Always With You (Bonus Track)<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mad Max</b> <font color="#ffffff">Night Of White Rock</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00020 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/madmax-nightofwhiterock.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Michael Voss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43.53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> <a href="http://www.madmaxmusic.de/" target="new">Mad Max</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>87%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">More German hard rock – this time in the form of <b>Mad Max</b>, the band that features lead vocalist <b>Michael Voss</b>.<br /> On <font color="#00ffff">Night Of White Rock</font> the band return to their best loved sound after taking a side step on the last studio release <font color="#00ffff">Never Say Never</font>. To be more exact, the band also return to their classic line-up, as the last album only featured Voss and guitarist <b>Juergen Breforth</b>.<br /> Classic line-up and sound in hand for the first time since the last 80s, the guys have a new record that will please long time fans and those with an ear for commercial German melodic rock.<br /> With Voss as singer comparisons will of course be drawn to <b>Casanova</b> and <b>Demon Drive</b>, but <b>Mad Max</b> has enough personality to stand on its own.<br /> The album is lyrically positive and slanted towards the Christian faith. That might draw a few more curious people in, but the fact it isn't preachy won't turn any off either.<br /> Musically the album offers a good a variation of style without appearing disconnected. It rocks hard in places - <font color="#ffff00">To Hell And Back, Sun</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Raise Your Voice</font> the best picks; offers some commercial pop/rock in the form of <font color="#ffff00">Hope To See You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Bad Day In Heaven</font> and also delivers a big ballad – <font color="#ffff00">Unbelievable</font> and even on acoustic instrumental – the closing track <font color="#ffff00">(Just A) Melody</font>.<br /> As with all Voss produced albums, there doesn't appear to be any notes out of place and the album sounds great in any setting. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> While <b>Mad Max</b> don't deliver anything German hard rock fans haven't already heard before, they do offer some memorable songs and it is good to hear the band back in their original form and a solid as ever. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Rollin' Thunder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stormchild<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Of Passsion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Say Never<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Of White Rock</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Voss:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jürgen Breforth:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Axel Kruse:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roland Bergmann:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Voss</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mad Max</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> To Hell And Back <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Losing It Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hope To See You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unbelievable<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Homeless<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Raise Your Voice <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Upon My Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Day In Heaven <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Of White Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> (Just A) Melody<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Speedy Gonzales</b> <font color="#ffffff">Electric Stalker</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">00014 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/speedygonzales-electricstalker.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tommy Denander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48.20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.aorheaven.com" target="new">AOR Heaven</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>79%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>78%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Speedy Gonzales</b> is an interesting release to say the least. I took these ears several listens to appreciate what is on offer here. This is something that will be best appreciated by a select audience. The band features Mr. Everywhere <b>Tommy Denander</b> on guitars and <b>Thomas Vikstrom</b> on vocals.<br /> Originally the band was formed in 1990 out of the ashes of AOR favourites <b>Talk of The Town</b>, designed to be in a more metal vein, which is definitely the case.<br /> Original material written and demoed in 1990 and subsequently traded between fans over the years was re-recorded over the last year or two – again featuring Denander and Vikstrom plus the newly added rhythm section of <b>Marcel Jacob</b> and <b>Daniel Flores</b>.<br /> The guitar sound is typical Denander, but the vocal delivery sees Vikstrom in <b>Rob Halford</b> mode, not <b>Talk Of The Town</b> mode.<br /> The album rocks, but it isn't always easy to listen to - <font color="#ffff00">Electric Stalker</font> case in point. Being a huge Halford fan might make it a little easier, but there are definitely some tracks here better than others.<br /> On a more commercial melodic note – <font color="#ffff00">Do You Know Where The Kids Go</font> is a fine song, as is the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Men with Medals</font> and the passionate <font color="#ffff00">Spit In The Hand That Feeds You</font>.<br /> Of the hard rockers, the opening two tracks <font color="#ffff00">Flash Of The Blade</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Desires Of The Flesh</font> do the job as does the Priest-like <font color="#ffff00">Dominator</font> and the closing hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Lust And Desire</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> This is not an album for everyone or even all fans of Denander. This is for those curious as to what <b>Talk Of The Town</b> meets <b>Judas Priest</b> might sound like. Another interesting release for the Denander resume and <b>Thomas Vikstrom</b> sounds his usual fine self. Just beware of the nature of the release before diving in. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Electric Stalker</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thomas Vikström:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Flores:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcel Jacob:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thomas Vikstrom</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Flash Of The Blade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desire Of The Flesh <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Electric Stalker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Know Where The Kids Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Free Like An Eagle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Men With Medals <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dominator<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spit In The Hand That Feeds You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make Love In Red<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shock the Nation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Trial By Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lust And Desire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#df7000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Toto</b> <font color="#ffffff">Falling In Between</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD 273 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/toto-fallinginbetween.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Toto</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50.03</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> February 10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.toto99.com" target="new">Toto</a> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ca0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>100%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>100%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>100%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There have only been 6 perfect scores awarded in the 9 years of the site. This is the easiest perfect score I have awarded.<br /> <b>Toto</b> is one of my all time favourite bands, yet I have handed out three average reviews in a row for <font color="#00ffff">Tambu, Mindfields</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Through The Looking Glass</font>. I am glad I can turn that around with this record. And I think fans will be unanimous in agreeing that this is the band's finest work in years.<br /> <b>Toto</b> is a very diverse band. Their history of recordings and styles encompassed is diverse. Because of that diversity and a long rich career that spans 3 decades, it is always going to be hard to please everybody. And just how certain past albums have appealed will certainly impact on where fans rank <font color="#00ffff">Falling In Between</font>.<br /> But for me – it is one of the band's finest ever. Previous favourites for me have been <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One, Kingdom Of Desire</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Isolation</font>. But I also love individual parts of <font color="#00ffff">IV, Fahrenheit, Tambu</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Mindfields</font>.<br /> Back to this album – <font color="#00ffff">Falling In Between</font> is for me the perfect example of how to please everybody – or at least come close.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Falling In Between</font> is also the perfect example of how to encompass everything from a very diverse past and still deliver something fresh and new. This is what it is all about folks. This is the exact reason I do this site - this is a stunning record. I have lived with it now for a few months and it remains the most played album of any throughout the week.<br /> It still sounds fresh; it still offers something exciting each time I play it and man…it just sounds a million bucks.<br /> I was listening back to <font color="#00ffff">Mindfields</font> yesterday and it just sounded flat compared to this. <font color="#00ffff">Falling In Between</font> is such a vibrant record. It jumps from the speakers and is bursting with life.<br /> The addition of new boy <b>Greg Phillinganes</b> and the return of <b>Steve Porcaro</b> are two extra ingredients that help make the album so well rounded.<br /> When <b>Steve Lukather</b> spoke of a more progressive record, I was a little worried. I said just deliver an album of killer 4 minute songs. The band has done both. The songs are killer and the more technical progressive elements add extra depth that gives the listener so much more to wrap their ears around.<br /> I have read a few comments that the first two tracks are somewhat harder to get into. I could not disagree more, I think they see the band at their most adventurous and simply blow me away for their power and creativity.<br /> There is so much music and so many layers within the songs, yet all of it sounds crystal clear and perfectly placed. There is not one note that has not been thought about. Sometimes such a perfect sound can feel deliberate or sterile, but this all just sounds so natural, it is like second nature for all involved.<br /> I mean, how can a record with 5 lead vocalists and maybe 8 different song styles not sound disjointed? But it doesn't…never once does a song appear out of place.<br /> This record flows effortlessly from one song to another due to three things – perfect performances, brilliant songwriting and a million dollar sound.<br /> The percussion on this record is second to none as far as Toto's history and the songs are just as diverse, yet perfectly cohesive in the scheme of the album's flow.<br /> I am seriously in awe of the way the different vocalists appear and work with each other through the record. As stated, there are 5 lead vocalists on this record and sometimes 3 or 4 in any given track! Yet it works due to the amazing song quality and the smooth production allowing each singer their own space.<br /> This 50 minute record has something for every Toto fan old and new and then something.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Falling In Between</font> - With a grand <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font> style instrumentation, the album begins its journey before Lukather blows the song apart with one of the heaviest riffs I have ever heard from him. The song is very progressive and together with the hard crunch of the guitar and some amazing swirling keyboards, the song reminds me of the best from <b>Dream Theater</b>.<br /> The band has really gone out of its way to be different, yet in a way that is going to appeal to fans. Take this track - the heaviest of the album. When was the last time you heard an album title track that features two verses, two quick choruses and no further lead vocals past the 2 minute 20 mark! The last 2 minutes of the song is a mix of Luke's heavy riffing and layers of keyboard and orchestral/progressive instrumentation. Not only that, but <b>Bobby Kimball</b> sings the verse with such power, like I have never heard him and new boy Greg sings the chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dying On My Feet</font> - The intro to this song gives absolutely nothing away - you have no idea where the song is going and if I wasn't sitting here listening to it myself, I'm not sure I could possibly believe the description! This is a stunning track that highlights the genius that is this album.<br /> A laid back mid-tempo verse with a subtle and prominent piano riff doubles in pace for a bridge that features another heavy (and in your face) guitar rip before the song reverts back to it's original pace. This is a perfect contrast, but what I couldn't believe is the u-turn taken after the second chorus. From out of nowhere a massive orchestral break drives this song into the audio equivalent of cinematic widescreen. There are instruments and layers flying every which way and can only be described as glorious. Without warning the song reverts back to how it started, but now with a slow Lukather solo to accompany.<br /> Come chorus time again another u-turn awaits. No, not to the first anthemic interlude, but rather an even more complex, progressive instrumental outro that lasts close to 2 minutes. Before you even realize, the song is bursting with heavy guitar riffs and then a massive horn section! On my count that's about 5 different vibes within a 6 minute song. Progressive elements again come into play, especially with the added percussion layers and Luke's riffing. I have never heard anything like it and suggest that fans of the oldest formation of <b>Toto</b> will really dig this track. I can see this as still being on my playlist in December and a contender for song of the year – albeit, one out of left field.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bottom Of Your Soul</font> - This is the longest song of the album at 7 minutes and the lead single. Easily the most commercial number, this will be the most familiar sound to fans of 80s <b>Toto</b>. This mid-tempo ballad reminds me of the moody vibe of <font color="#ffff80">I Will Remember</font> from <font color="#00ffff">Tambu</font> - certainly the mood and percussion is very reminiscent of this track.<br /> The kicker is the chorus. A mellow Lukather sung verse gives way to one of the biggest choruses of the record, but with none other than the masterful <b>Joseph Williams</b> up front. It's a definite return to <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font> as Williams and Lukather duet through the rest of the track. It closes out with another long instrumental passage featuring some speaker shattering rhythms and a real tribal/African vibe - with Luke and Joseph adding sporadic vocal melodies alongside a very melodic, band supplied, chanting harmony vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">King Of The World</font> – This is going to be a fan favourite and is another very commercial track. This is the most 80s sounding track of the album, this again reminds me of the uptempo melodic rock moments from <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Isolation</font>.<br /> The warn husky tones of <b>David Paich</b> feature as lead during the verse and Lukather takes the bridge into the chorus, where <b>Bobby Kimball</b> takes over and supplies another short, but memorable powerhouse vocal. The very catchy and commercial chorus is everything anthem loving Toto fans will be hoping for!<br /> For whatever reason, the track reminds me of the ultra high-tech feel and sound of <b>Mr. Mister's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Welcome To The Real World</font> album - very 80s, but so high-tech that the sound appears timeless.<br /> The instrumental break is again something that I have never heard before, yet it remains so recognizable to fans and true to the <b>Toto</b> legacy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hooked</font> - Very different again...5 tracks in and 5 different individual styles, yet it gels together perfectly. That takes talent. This is a somewhat more stripped back track than some of the multi-layered orchestral parts of previous tracks. The song is a guitar driven slow-to-mid tempo groover, with a real swagger and some more progressive rock elements. But the chorus is once again bathed in multi-layered glory. Basically, this is very heavy come chorus time, but relatively organic and features a blazing guitar solo.<br /> <b>Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson</b> joins in with some flute towards the hard rocking conclusion to the track, adding yet more texture to an already over flowing record.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Simple Life</font> - Another change of pace...I asked Luke where the rest of the track was! He basically said he wanted people to want to play it again. That they will, as it is over way to soon! A Luke sung ballad, the song builds with subtle rhythms and a prominent piano part, then explodes into a single massive and passionate chorus and in a blink of an eye it is all over.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Taint Your World</font> - Wow, time for another guitar driven rocker, but this time it's played out at double speed as an infectious little hard rocking boogie! When <b>Bobby Kimball</b> suggests "you don't want to fuck with me" during the chorus, I don't think anyone will argue with him! And who disagree with his statement at the end of the track?? (You'll have to wait for that!).<br /> One thing springs instantly to mind the second this track fires up - <b>Van Halen</b>! Yep, this is Lukather at his <b>Eddie Van Halen</b> best and man, he sounds good. This is <b>Toto's</b> <font color="#ffff80">Hot For Teacher</font>. The chorus is fast and furious, the vocals are layers deep and again the band takes a side trip for another curious instrumental break.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let It Go</font> - Yet another track that offers something new in a familiar environment. <b>Greg Phillinganes</b> sings lead on this track, drawing in all of his soul/R&B influences with <b>Stevie Wonder</b>. He fits into the band perfectly. What is most enjoyable about the track is the fact it continues the pace of the last track, but is more stripped back and runs mainly on a snappy rhythm section. The track takes several twists during its running time, but the heart of the song is a funk/jazz rhythm that reminds me of <font color="#00ffff">Tambu</font> in places and very early Toto in other areas. Lush instrumentation and multiple use of a big melodic Lukather sung pre-chorus bridge keeps things hopping around!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Spiritual Man</font> – Three or so months in and this song still gives me goosebumps. This is amazing track and without doubt is a new <b>Toto</b> classic. This soulful and spiritual ballad is stunning...subtle at times and completely over the top towards the end. Greg, Bobby and <b>David Paich</b> all sing on this, each one taking a verse (there is no definitive chorus as such). This is the ultimate build-up song. Starting slowly, the vocals are hauntingly passionate and really capture the emotions of the listener. The bridge between the verses is multi-layered and is short, yet more intense. With each passing minute, more layers of vocals and instruments are added to the song and when a simply stunning <b>Bobby Kimball</b> bursts through the speakers, every single hair on your body will be standing on end. The last minute of the song is so thick in vocals, sax and keyboards, you will need that 5.1 mix to work out where it is all coming from. Stunning!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No End In Sight</font> - Another taste of something out of the ordinary. <b>Steve Lukather</b> sings the verse, while <b>Bobby Kimball</b> delivers the chorus. The transition is so smooth you'll have to go back to hear where one takes over from the other. The tempo starts slow, but builds and jumps around. The chorus and song itself takes a few listens to get into and getting a handle on the layered percussion takes another listen after that! Some of the instrumental passages remind me of <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font> again.<br /> I love the hard edged guitar riff of the chorus and the uptempo flow of the song. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that <font color="#00ffff">Falling In Between</font> features a little of everything <b>Toto</b> have ever been and will, without doubt, appeal to every single fan the band has ever reached out to. Time could see me referring to this as the band's best album ever.<br /> The album is almost a case of less is more. In several places the tracks leave you wanting more, which makes playing the album over and over so easy. I have different favourites each week, with so much on offer in what is a relatively short amount of time all things considered.<br /> Catchy drum fills, extra guitar riffs and one-off harmony vocals are spread throughout the album. You find yourself looking forward and listening out for these parts once you get to know their place.<br /> It is another example of how much effort has gone into the songwriting and production of this album. Songwriting credits are shared by the whole band over several tracks – again highlighting what a group effort this record is.<br /> I don't think I have ever heard a lead singer sing less on an album, yet <b>Bobby Kimball</b> is stunning here. <b>Luakther</b> has never sounded better and his guitar playing is inspired to say the least. Paich has never sounded better! And keyboards are everywhere, as is the rich textured percussion of <b>Simon Phillips</b> and <b>Lenny Castro</b>.<br /> It truly is a blueprint of how to make the perfect album. Other bands would do well to pick this up and have a listen. Not to replicate it, but to see how the band draws on their all their past records and incorporates it into something new. I have been talking about bands getting it right in 2006. This is so right!<br /> A fan pleasing release that will be hard to beat for Album Of The Year! </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Toto<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hydra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> IV<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Isolation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fahrenheit<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seventh One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingdom Of Desire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tambu<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> XX<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="toto-mindfields.p3">Mindfields</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="toto-throughthelookingglass.p3">Through The Looking Glass</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling In Between</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bobby Kimball:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Lukather:</b> Guitars & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Paich:</b> Keyboards & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Simon Phillips:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Greg Phillinganes:</b> Keyboards & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Porcaro:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Porcaro:</b> Synth, Sound Design<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lenny Castro:</b> Percussion</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toto</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Lukather, Joseph Williams</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Powerful melodic rock</b></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toto</b> - Seventh One</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling In Between <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dying On My Feet <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bottom Of Your Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King Of The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hooked<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Simple Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Taint Your World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spiritual Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No End In Sight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#8000ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tom Galley The Creator Of Phenomena</b><br /> <font color="#ffffff">PsychoFantasy</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">/ </font> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4"> ESM 125 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/phenomena-psychofantasy.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Tom Galley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47.06</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> February 10</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.escape-music.com" target="new">Escape Musc</a> <a href="http://www.psychofantasy.com" target="new">Psycho Fantasy</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Tom Galley The Creator Of Phenomena</b> says the title I was requested to credit this release to – quite a mouthful, but an indication that this isn't a straight continuation of the <b>Phenomena</b> legacy, but rather something new.<br /> Elements of the atmospheric and almost eerie <b>Phenomena</b> records are present – including a return of <b>Glenn Hughes</b> to perform lead vocals on some of the album's pivotal tracks.<br /> At the heart of the album is of course <i>Mel Galley's</i> guitar work and songwriting vision. The only other return guest from past installments is vocalist <b>Keith Murrell</b>.<br /> This is not an easy album to get into and it won't appeal across the spectrum due to its nature. <font color="#00ffff">PsychoFantasy</font> tells a story and the music within runs the gauntlet of emotions.<br /> What surprised me was the tone of this release. It is a lot heavier and the majority of the tracks rock, with little time for more subtle passages of music you might normally associate with <b>Phenomena</b>.<br /> The guitar tone is updated to a more modern feel and there is a definite aggressive tone to proceedings. Sometimes that works (<font color="#ffff00">So Near So Far</font>) and sometimes it doesn't (<font color="#ffff00">Killing For The Thrill</font>).<br /> Glenn Hughes doesn't disappoint on <font color="#ffff00">Keep On Running, How Do You Feel</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font>, with his own guitarist <b>JJ Marsh</b> also contributing.<br /> While not overly commercial in their approach, <b>Tony Martin's</b> two lead vocals also impress (<font color="#ffff00">Chemical High</font> & <font color="#ffff00">God Gives</font>).<br /> On the downside, the album takes a lot of listening to and there appears to be a lack of major hooks. There are subtle time changes and central parts to each song, but no hook that really knocks me out.<br /> Something of note – I think the whole album sounds as if it was written for <b>Glenn Hughes</b>, as even the other singers used adopt his style of vocal delivery. Take a listen to Sunrise and especially <font color="#ffff00">Crazy Grooves</font>. The CD booklet lacks detail so I can't credit the singer, but he sure does mimic Hughes. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Not an easy album to get into, but not one without merit. The sound has been toughened up and updated for the new millennium and there is no faulting the performances featured. The songs however are a little same-ish and despite rocking, don't move along at a very fast pace. One for fans of <b>Mel Galley</b> and <b>Glenn Hughes</b>, but others should sample further first. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Phenomena<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Runner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Inner Vision</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glenn Hughes, Tony Martin, Keith Murrell, Lee Small, Matt Moreton, Joy Strachan:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mel Galley, Andy Shortland, J.J. Marsh:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Orlin Radinsky:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Lynn:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ian Rowlands, Tom Brown:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Phenomena</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunrise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep On Running <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Killing For The Thrill<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So Near So Far <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chemical High<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 60 Seconds<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crazy Grooves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Do You Feel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All That I Need<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> God Gives<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#804000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bob Catley</b> <font color="#ffffff">Spirit Of Man</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD269 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bobcatley-spiritofman.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Vince O'Regan & Bob Catley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62.34</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.bobcatley.com" target="new">Bob Catley</a></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>94%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>75%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">There was some uncertainty about the next solo album for <b>Magnum</b> frontman <b>Bob Catley</b>, after it was confirmed the architect behind his last solo album – <b>Paul Hodson</b> - would not be participating in this record.<br /> Given the fact that was Bob's first album after a long partnership with <b>Gary Hughes</b>, there was some concern over who would fill in the void from two very gifted musicians and songwriters.<br /> On one count Bob has laid all concerns to rest, but on the other count the jury is still out.<br /> Into the Catley fold comes British songwriters <b>Dave Thompson</b> and <b>Paul Uttley</b> – both already known for their work in their band <b>Lost Weekend</b>.<br /> The duo has written the bulk of the material for this release and should be very proud of their efforts. I heard the whispers of some questioning what the pair could deliver, but on a songwriting front they could not have done much better.<br /> They have captured the essence of <b>Bob Catley</b> the artist and delivered a set of songs that blends his heavier solo sound with some more traditional <b>Magnum</b> elements.<br /> Bob's guitarist <b>Vince O`Regan</b> also steps up his role in the band by supplying three songs for the album.<br /> I think Bob has recorded some good albums. I also think he has recorded some great albums. I think the same for <b>Magnum</b>. Combined they have provided some of my favourite British hard rock songs of all time. But both are capable of turning in the odd disappointment.<br /> <b>Bob Catley's</b> last album <font color="#00ffff">When Empires Fall</font> was genius. Perhaps the man behind the songs and sound (<b>Paul Hodson</b>) deserves the credit there, but Bob certainly sang his ass off.<br /> The sound of the last album was also the best of all Catley records to date and even better than the last few <b>Magnum</b> releases.<br /> So with that in mind, what has Bob and Co. got in store for fans this time around?<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Spirit Of Man</font> is an interesting release. There are some very strong elements that long time fans will be pleased to hear. But it has a couple of weaknesses also.<br /> At the end of the day I don't think this album it matches the quality or intensity of <font color="#00ffff">When Empires Burn</font> – mainly because I really thought that was a classic album.<br /> My biggest issue with <font color="#00ffff">Spirit Of Man</font> is the sound quality. This is an area I am getting increasingly frustrated with. Right across the spectrum, sound quality varies from release to release. Fans need to be able to rely on their favourite artists – and especially the big names like <b>Bob Catley</b> – delivering the same reliable quality each and every time.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">When Empires Fall</font> featured a near perfect sound. But just on album later and I am faced with an issue that takes away some of my enjoyment of this album.<br /> Yes, this is a nice big rock record, but some of that impact is lost with a sound that is thinner than it should be.<br /> What is hardest for me to understand is why this album is hard to listen to at high volume. Let's face it – we all want to crank the volume, but when doing so here, the frequency hurts my ears. Sonically this album has a tinny edge to it that makes it near impossible to crank loud with comfort.<br /> Strangely enough, I found myself stating this very same fact in regards to the last <b>Vince O'Regan</b> produced album – <b>Pulse's</b> <font color="#00ffff">World's Apart</font> – an album that was virtually ruined by poor production and mastering.<br /> On <font color="#00ffff">Spirit Of Man</font> I find the rhythm section is sometimes too low in the mix and even Bob's lead vocals sometimes don't seem as powerful as I know they are in real life and play second fiddle to the music.<br /> If you can set aside the sound issues and look at the songs that make up this album, you will get more satisfaction.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Spirit Of Man</font> sees the music split in two directions. Some of the album follows the harder rocking path set by <font color="#00ffff">When Empires Burn</font> and the other half of the album steps back into a more melodic field that fans of classic <b>Magnum</b> will most certainly appreciate.<br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heart Of Stone</font> is a high energy album opener which ranks as one of Catley's hardest rocking tunes to date.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Moment Of Truth</font> retains the uptempo pace, but adds more keyboards and a very melodic chorus which fans will love. It harks back to the sound of the first couple of Catley solo records.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In The Name Of The Cause</font> is a track I can't seem to warm to. It suits Bob's style and voice and indeed, the album as a whole, but I'm still struggling to like the melody.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blinded By A Lie</font> is a song which I don't love the chorus for, but the song itself is still effective and catchy.<br /> The big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Last Snows Of Winter</font> is a new Catley classic. This is one of a few very Magnum-esque tracks and a song I have a lot of time for. The chorus has that epic <b>Magnum</b> feel and treads familiar ground. One of the album's strongest tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Spirit Of Man</font> is another track I'm struggling with. I think there is far too much going on at times within the song. Perhaps it is the poor mix and not the song itself. With a lead guitar riff, a rhythm guitar, swirling keyboards and layers of vocals, one must ensure the mix is absolutely perfect and here it isn't. <font color="#ffff00">The Fire Within Me</font> is another <b>Magnum</b> friendly track and one which rolls along at a great pace. The chorus is also another high quality example of what works perfectly for <b>Bob Catley</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Judgement Day</font> has a <b>Magnum</b> feel during the verse and then rocks through the chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lost To The Night</font> is another favourite from the album. A monster chorus and a very melodic verse see Bob delivering a great emotional vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful Mind</font> is one of those haunting keyboard dominated Magnum style tracks which have that old-school appeal and one long-time fans will love.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Walk On Water</font> suffers again from a very thin sound and loses impact over what could have been.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">End Of The Story</font> is one of the album's best tracks and real credit to it's writers. In typical <b>Magnum</b> fashion, this is an epic to close out the record. The style of the song is also very close to the sound of <font color="#00ffff">On A Storyteller's Night</font>, so I know fans will appreciate this one. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> In summary, this is another very good album from <b>Bob Catley</b>, who knows a good song when he sees it and has picked a great team to help make him look good.<br /> The songs are great, but I know the album would have been even better – possibly rising to a rank close to <font color="#00ffff">When Empires Burn</font> - if a better production effort was made more a priority. For whatever reason, I haven't seen any other review that makes this point. We should expect the very best of the biggest names in this scene and more consistency from album to album. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewsuk.html">The Tower</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bobcatley-live.html">Official Bootleg (Live)</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bobcatley-legends.html">Legends</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bobcatley-middleearth.p3">Middle Earth</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bobcatley-whenempiresburn.p3">When Empires Burn</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spirit Of Man</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Catley:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Irvin Pratt:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vince O'Regan:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jamie Little:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al Barrow:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Catley</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnum</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Catley</b> - When Empires Burn</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Of Stone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Moment Of Truth <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Name Of The Cause<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blinded By A Lie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Snows Of Winter <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spirit Of Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Fire Within Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Judgement Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost To The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk On Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Of The Story <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#0d7dc1" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ambition</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ambition</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD271 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ambition.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Farbrizio Grossi</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57.43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff0000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>91%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">It's probably a source of amazement to some that <b>Ambition</b> is finally being released! The much hyped project was first announced some 4 years ago now, as a comeback vehicle for the fabulous, but under appreciated AOR vocal God, <b>Thom Griffin</b>.<br /> Over the last year or two, <b>Ambition</b> has been revised to first feature <b>Mecca</b> vocalist <b>Joe Vana</b> and then both the guys in a duet format, before reverting back to a Griffin only release.<br /> However, a couple of strange quirks within this album mean that it is not solely a <b>Thom Griffin</b> project.<br /> Following a familiar path set down previously by the record label, <b>Ambition</b> features a talent vocalist, a collection of obscure, classic era AOR tracks and musical input and production from <b>Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi</b>.<br /> The first <b>Ambition</b> twist is the inclusion of a different guitarist than that on Grossi's usual team. Instead we have the guitar playing talents of <b>Tommy Denander</b> on board.<br /> Yes, there is that name again. Tommy is a brilliant guitarist and has a definite ear for classic AOR, but I'm wondering if he may be spreading his talents to thinly.<br /> His very distinct sound is everything AOR fans appreciate, but I would hate to see such a talent burn himself out. In the last few months we have had a new <b>Radioactive</b> release, the great <b>Philip Bardowell</b> album and in this month alone we have Tommy dominating tis project, plus the release of the <b>Speedy Gonzales</b> project and <b>Frederik Slama's</b> new <b>AOR</b> album (which also features <b>Philip Bardowell</b>!). That's three albums for three labels in the one month and there is still the new <b>Stan Bush</b> and <b>Frederiken/Denander</b> albums plus guest spots on the new <b>Paul Stanley</b> and <b>Liberty & Justice</b> albums to come in the first half of 2006!<br /> That all said – Tommy's work on <b>Ambition</b> is for me his best in recent memory and I have enjoyed it more than the <b>Radioactive</b> and <b>AOR</b> releases and as much as the Bardowell album. He is right on song here and the material featured suits his delivery to a tee. The fact his work is produced by someone other than himself has I think given it even greater impact and I make the suggestion to Tommy that he try such a tactic again.<br /> The other twist within the album is the inclusion of one time <b>Toto</b> vocalist <b>Jean Michel Byron</b>. He performs two duets with Griffin (which provide minimal disruption to the enjoyment of Griffin's vocals) and gets his own time to shine when he sings lead vocals on the track <font color="#ffff00">Hunger</font>.<br /> I personally think <b>Jean Michel Byron</b> offers no value to this album. I can understand him guesting as he does on a couple of tracks, but to include a track where he features as lead vocalist is an insult to <b>Thom Griffin</b> – who is without doubt the absolute star of this album. With 11 other songs on offer, leaving the Byron lead vocal track off altogether would have been a better decision.<br /> So to <b>Thom Griffin</b> – the man is a vocal God. His voice on this album is true ear candy.<br /> Without his presence, this album could have been written off as a showcase for a bygone era, being that it is so obviously set in a mid-80s timeframe stylistically.<br /> The songs are all so classically old-school in their delivery and listening to this is like forgetting that the 90s ever happened.<br /> So what about the songs? As usual the sources vary, but two tracks are sourced from <b>Joey Carbone</b>, longtime <b>Joseph Williams</b> songwriting partner (<font color="#ffff00">No Wasted Moments</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Together</font>); while Swedish songwriter <b>Christian Wolff</b> supplies several great tracks - <font color="#ffff00">Hold On, Hypocrites, All I Need, Make it Alright, Too Much, Hunger</font> and also featured is <b>Brian LaBlanc</b> of <b>Blanc Faces</b>.<br /> The common thread between these songs is the quality. Yes, they are dated in style, but I didn't think I have heard a more suited collection of songs gathered for one of these projects.<br /> Stated issues aside, this is a very fine record. If you are a fan of 80s AOR, then you won't find anything better than this release anytime soon.<br /> Griffin sings his ass off and simply floats his glorious warm and passionate vocals over the songs provided which, despite their age, suit the project and the style perfectly.<br /> This is so 80s in style, Grossi even adds in simple keyboard parts which add to the overall experience, but make the record even more user friendly for fans of the glory days of AOR.<br /> The opening lines of the album give one reason to pause and wonder why Griffin isn't a bigger star and why he hasn't made more records. He has the perfect melodic rock voice and I hope it isn't 20 years until we hear him again!<br /> I wouldn't describe this album as instant – besides the immediate impact of the lead vocals. But it doesn't take long to grow and develop into a firm favourite.<br /> Both <font color="#ffff00">Hold On</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Hypocrites</font> get the album off to a flyer and feature some glorious melodies. Byron's input on the bridge during <font color="#ffff00">Hypocrites</font> is ok, but he is simply out sung by Griffin.<br /> The softer and smoother <font color="#ffff00">Alone I Cry</font> tempers the pace for a moment, allowing the chance for Griffin to deliver some seriously smooth vocals and great harmonies.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shaping Fate & Destiny</font> is one of the most blatantly 80s style songs here, but it features one of the best choruses for the album.<br /> The Carbone supplied double header of <font color="#ffff00">No Wasted Moments</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Together</font> are like chalk and cheese. The former is a smooth <b>Toto</b>-like ballad, while the latter is one of the harder rocking tracks for the album and adds some much appreciated fire.<br /> Closing the album is the first track ever recorded for the album – the <b>Vana/Griffin</b> duet on the unreleased <b>Mr Mister</b> track <font color="#ffff00">Waiting In My Dreams</font>.<br /> The class of the song is such that I would have liked to hear more of the duo together, but I'm still more than satisfied with the album as it is. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Although the premise of the album sticks to an established format, and features a couple of quirks, such as the inclusion of vocalist Byron, the quality the end result is very satisfying.<br /> The album drops a little in intensity towards the end, but the first 8 or 9 tracks are all perfect old-school AOR and any album with such fine lead vocals deserves such attention. Especially by those looking for high quality examples of classic 80s AOR </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Ambition</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thom Griffin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jean Michel Byron & Joe Vana:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Masayoshi Yamasuka, Joachim Cannaiuolo:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi:</b> Bass, Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thom Griffin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mecca</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mecca</b> - Mecca</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hypocrites <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alone I Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shaping Fate And Destiny <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Need<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make It Alright <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Wasted Moments<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Together <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Much<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hunger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Promise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting In My Dreams (Bonus Track Europe)<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#808000" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Ten</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Essential Colletion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Recods</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD272 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ten-essentialcollection.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Gary Hughes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2hrs </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.tenofthebest.con" target="new">Ten</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#00bb00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>58%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>35%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Any new <b>Ten</b> release is anticipated by many, yet scornfully ignored by some others. <b>Ten</b> have a very dedicated fan base, built through years of hard work, but for whatever reason they have also attracted more than their share of derision.<br /> I don't think that's entirely fair, as the band has a back catalogue many artists would be proud of.<br /> In recent times the <b>Ten</b> star has begun to wane, with few live shows and original members leaving the band, leaving frontman/founder <b>Gary Hughes</b> struggling to get things back on course.<br /> 2006 looms as an important year for the band, who have two new releases planned plus a hopeful return to the live scene.<br /> I loved Ten's debut album back in 1995. I wasn't convinced by a couple of albums that followed, but I was reconverted when the band turned to heavier climes with <font color="#00ffff">Spellbound</font> and continued with the excellent double of <font color="#00ffff">Babylon</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Far Beyond The World</font>.<br /> 2004's <font color="#00ffff">Return To Evermore</font> was a return to more melodic fare, but perhaps suffered from not being as sonically intense as past efforts. What the new studio album is set to offer will be revealed in a few months time.<br /> As stated, I'm quite the fan of <b>Gary Hughes</b>. Not only his work with <b>Ten</b>, but his last classic solo album and the <font color="#00ffff">Once And Future King</font> opus. Read back through the reviews to see my thoughts.<br /> With those opinions in mind, this review will stand as the odd one out. <font color="#00ffff">The Essential Collection</font> is for me, sadly not that essential at all.<br /> This 2-Disc set sees a selection of established <b>Ten</b> songs given a fresh studio treatment, completely re-recorded during 2005, featuring the current line-up of the band (and session drummers used in place of spot that was yet to be filled at time of recording).<br /> <b>Ten's</b> <font color="#00ffff">The Essential Collection</font> is broken into <i>Essential Rockers</i> and <i>Essential Ballads</i>.<br /> Each disc features 9 tracks. Yes, the best of <b>Ten</b> is actually only 9.<br /> That seemingly contradictory setting could quite easily have been fixed. The best of Ten - 10 rockers and 10 ballads sounds like a far better scenario and one that should have been considered.<br /> On the rocker disc there is actually 11 tracks. The first two tracks are actually two sets of two tracks joined together. Separate all those and you get 11 tracks for Disc 1. Move the track <font color="#ffff00">After The Love Has Gone</font> to the ballads disc, where it wouldn't sound out of place at all, and you get 10 tracks per disc. Too easy! It is what it is, but I do think the compilation would have looked better with 10 tracks per disc.<br /> I'm yet to be blown away or even convinced by any attempt from a band to re-record their own tracks, but I do understand the circumstances that lead them to do so.<br /> However, with all <b>Ten's</b> albums still in release and easily obtainable within the market place, any re-recording of songs with such established credentials as these should at least offer something new for fans or attempt to sound better than the originals did, given updates in studio technology.<br /> In my opinion, the songs re-recorded here not only don't offer anything new, but sound vastly inferior to their original forms.<br /> I have no complaints whatsoever about the songs – I'm as much a fan of these tracks as any ardent <b>Ten</b> fan and think the compilation as a whole gathers some of the band's great songs. There are a few others I of course would have like included and perhaps a couple I am less fond of that could have been replaced. But that is a reflection of personal taste.<br /> <b>Gary Hughes</b> has in the past turned in some amazing songs with production qualities any artist would be proud of.<br /> What I am most unhappy about with the Essentials is the sound quality on offer. This is definitely not what you would expect from <b>Ten, Gary Hughes </b>or any artist in 2006.<br /> There are several problems. Most noticeable is the tinny drum sound. Not far behind that is the guitar tone. Then there is the mix, which just isn't good enough to bring it all together.<br /> Go straight to the opening track to hear what I mean. <font color="#ffff00">Name Of The Rose</font> builds to it's traditional opening point with a tinny drum intro and then attempts to burst into life with a truly horrible guitar sound that is extremely hollow and sounds buried in the mix.<br /> The drum volume rules over both the bass and guitar sound, but still with that thin and tinny sound. It doesn't improve when the song morphs into <font color="#ffff00">Wildest Dreams</font>. The guitar riffing and solo have little effect compared to the bombastic original and the drum pace is pedestrian.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fear The Force</font> is even worse. The once grand intro now sounds flat and when the lead guitar kick in there is almost no impact whatsoever. The drums sound terrible and don't really match the song.<br /> The drums are even worse on <font color="#ffff00">Apparition</font>, which probably has the worst overall sound of all the tracks. A tinny and noisy symbol rides over everything and the mix is nothing short of a complete mess.<br /> It continues into <font color="#ffff00">After The Love Has Gone</font>, which originally featured a lush moody wall of sound, but now features a cold guitar sound and a muddy mix. The new choir parts within <font color="#ffff00">The Robe</font> also do that song no favors whatsoever.<br /> The <i>Ballads</i> disc is only a little better. I have a soft spot for Gary's ballads and I have previously created my own compilation of them.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Till The End Of Time</font> sounds ok until the drums kick in, and <font color="#ffff00">You're In My Heart</font> features a new guitar solo I can live without.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">We Rule The Night</font> thankfully has an emotional impact many of the other songs are now missing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Silent Rain</font> is also enjoyable, but more so because of Gary's vocals than anything else.<br /> In fact, I think the key to the ballad disc being a more enjoyable experience is the fact that it relies more on Gary's moody vocals and some fine keyboard work from the ever reliable <b>Paul Hodson</b>, and requires less of a drum and guitar presence.<br /> As a foot note - funnily enough, I can hear no real difference in the lead vocals throughout this record. Where they even re-recorded for this project? </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> It pains me to talk this way about any release, especially an artist I am genuinely fond of.<br /> But as hard as it is, sometimes I am met with an album that does not make the grade. This should have been handed in to the label as is – especially for an artist that is capable of so much better and has previously delivered the goods.<br /> I remain a huge fan of <b>Gary Hughes</b> the artist, but I have to be honest and state that I am very disappointed with this release. Rather than celebrate the music of the band, I feel that this release ultimately does damage to the <b>Ten</b> brand name. As for the score - I love the original songs, but not all the changes made here and the sound mark speaks for itself. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Ten<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Name Of The Rose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Robe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Say Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-spellbound.p3">Spellbound</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-babylon.p3">Babylon</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-farbeyondtheworld.p3">Far Beyond The World</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="ten-returntoevermore.p3">Return To Evermore</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Essential Collection</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hughes:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Francis, John Halliwell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve McKenna:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Hodson:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hughes</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential Rockers:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Name Of The Rose/Wildest Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The March Of The Argonauts/Fear The Force<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ten Fathoms Deep<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Apparition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The Love Has Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Remembrance For The Brave/Red<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spellbound<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Robe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evermore<br /> Essential Ballads:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Till The End Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're In My Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Yesterday Lies In The Flames<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Virtual Reality<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Rule The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silent Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through The Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sail Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valentine<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#2222ff" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tony O'Hora</b> <font color="#ffffff">Escape Into The Sun</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD270 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/tonyohora-escapeintothesun.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Magnus Karlsson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54.52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock / Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.frontiers.it" target="new">Frontiers</a> <a href="http://www.magnus-karlsson.com" target="new">Magnus Karlsson</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>93%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Two of this month's <b>Frontiers</b> releases are project albums relying on a tried and true formula backed by some familiar names.<br /> In the back of my mind is the constant thought that these projects have the very real possibility of wearing thin on the record buying public, but it's hard to argue a case against either of these projects, when the end result is largely satisfying.<br /> For former <b>Praying Mantis</b> vocalist <b>Tony O'Hora's</b> solo comeback, the very talented <b>Magnus Karlsson</b> has been employed to deliver the goods.<br /> Magnus is probably the stand out star of 2005, delivering two amazing albums and performances with <b>Starbreaker</b> and <b>Allen/Lande</b>. Magnus was the man behind the music and the songs on both releases and the quality of the tracks featured on those albums goes to show what an all-round talent he is.<br /> Magnus' role on <font color="#00ffff">Escape Into The Sun</font> is the same as the last two projects – deliver 12 knockout songs and supply all the music – guitars, bass, keys and drums. And did I mention produce the effort also?<br /> I do wonder when Magnus gets time to sleep, but for now, fans of his band <b>Last Tribe</b> and those newly acquired through his side projects have a smorgasbord of passionate melodic metal to feast upon.<br /> <b>Tony O'Hora</b> – whose name is on the marquee of this release – does have an important role to play. He has to supply vocals to match the power of the music and he also has to prove the lads of <b>Praying Mantis</b> that they are missing out on a still vital vocalist.<br /> As far as my opinion goes, both deliver what was asked on them on this album and it sets 2006 up as another potentially great year for Karlsson.<br /> Still, there are however, a couple of points that need to be made.<br /> This record is very comparable to the <b>Starbreaker</b> project. Yes, Magnus has a certain style that shows through on all of his projects, but the mood, vibe and song style of this record compares mostly to that of <b>Starbreaker</b>.<br /> And at times you could almost hear <b>Tony Harnell</b> singing when <b>Tony O'Hora</b> reaches for the higher notes supplied by Karlsson.<br /> And to be perfectly honest – I prefer <b>Starbreaker</b> and I prefer <b>Tony Harnell</b> as a vocalist. I don't think this album has the originality of that project, or say the <b>Allen/Lande</b> album.<br /> But, <font color="#00ffff">Escape Into The Sun</font> is still a fine melodic metal album in many ways. And while it is powerful and sonically intense as far as the guitar delivery, it is also thoroughly melodic – as all Karlsson's projects are - which means it is definitely going to pull in listeners from outside this genre who may not normally purchase music as heavy as this.<br /> Crossover appeal is important and vital for this scene.<br /> This is an extremely moody record. It is somewhat darker than <b>Starbreaker</b>, perhaps exaggerated by the pacing of the record. The majority of the songs could be described as mid-tempo, with a few excursions outside that.<br /> I think the record could have been a little more varied in tempo. For the first few listens, the songs sound very familiar. Once again there are some great tracks featured here, but the consistency is not quite as Karlsson's first two projects.<br /> Highlights include the opening intensity of <font color="#ffff00">Broken Soul</font> which features some strong vocal hooks; the mellower and even more melodic title track <font color="#ffff00">Escape Into The Sun</font>; the <b>Allen/Lande</b> vibe of the uptempo <font color="#ffff00">No More Innocence</font>; the emotional intensity of <font color="#ffff00">My Final Prayer</font>, which has an <b>Allen/Lande</b> meets modern <b>Stryper</b> sound; the classy chorus of <font color="#ffff00">Dreamless Nights</font> and the heavier, modern sound of <font color="#ffff00">More Than We Know</font>.<br /> The first half of the record is much stronger than the closing half. Tracks 9 through 12 sees the quality drop from Karlsson's usual high standards. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Escape Into The Sun is a fine vocal return for <b>Tony O'Hora</b> and I expect it will leave his fans very pleased. It is also more proof of <b>Magnus Karlsson's</b> brilliance – as a writer, performer and producer, but perhaps there is also a small shred of evidence here that in a very busy 12 month period, his best songs were featured on his first two projects.<br /> The album isn't as consistent or as original as Karlsson's first two projects, but still delivers some of the best melodic metal available in the marketplace currently. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Tribe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Starbreaker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Allen/Lande</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony O'Hora:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Karlsson:</b> All Instruments</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Starbreaker</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Karlsson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Praying Mantis</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Starbreaker</b> - Starbreaker</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Escape Into The Sun <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No More Innocence <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> High Enough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Final Prayer <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreamless Nights <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> More Than We Know<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Close To Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evil Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Wings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Start All Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Alone<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#a7604b" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Razorback</b> <font color="#ffffff">Criminal Justice</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Massacre Records</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/razorback-criminaljustice.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Rolf Monkes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 33.00</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.massacre-records.com" target="new">Massacre</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#10f8a0" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>49%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>30%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>71%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">First and foremost, I'm a huge fan of vocalist <b>Stefan Berggren</b> and his work with <b>Snakes In Paradise</b>.<br /> I was also very impressed with the debut <b>Razorback</b> album. I loved hearing Stefan sing something tougher and work outside his usually very smooth AOR style.<br /> And I thought <b>Rolf Monkes</b> stepping onto anew level as far as his guitar work and songwriting skills. <font color="#00ffff">Animal Anger</font> was a great album and I'm still impressed with it today.<br /> So you will appreciate my candor when I say that I am massively let down with the new album <font color="#00ffff">Criminal Justice</font>.<br /> The guys received across the board praise for their debut, so why change the formula?<br /> Instead of picking up where they left off and taking it to the next level, <b>Razorback</b> have turned heavier and updated their sound. If it ain't broke – don't fix it.<br /> The sound here is heavier and dominated by a gritty, tuned-down guitar sound and overall, the whole album has a darker modern metal feel.<br /> Stefan still sounds great – it would be impossible for him not too, but there is nothing here for him to work with. He barely gets a chance to break out of a growling, moody vocal required by the songs.<br /> The choruses are cut back to a point where they have minimal impact and the slow plodding pacing of the songs is such that the mere 33 minutes featured feels like an hour.<br /> I don't understand any of this, but I'm most dismayed that almost every song features the same approach and thee really aren't ay tracks that stand out like was the case on <font color="#00ffff">Animal Anger</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Even if this album was a hard rocking classic, 9 tracks and 33 minutes in this day and age just does not cut it, so consider me one very disappointed fan. A brilliant debut had these guys lined up to take the European melodic metal scene by storm. They had all the potential and given a push could have appealed to the same market as <b>Masterplan</b>.<br /> But this new album will kill all momentum established by the debut. So much so I doubt there will even be a third release. I hope I am wrong, as this pairing has charisma and chemistry and can still come back and deliver a classic. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Animal Instinct<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Criminal Justice</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stefan Berggren:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rolf Munkes, Chris Heun:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andre Hilgers:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcus Bielenberg:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rolf Monkes</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> The Flame Still Burns <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Alright<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big City Jungle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't A Perfect Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Criminal Justice<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard To Say Good Bye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Good Day To Die<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vampire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Point Of No Return<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#930049" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>AOR</b> <font color="#ffffff">LA Attraction</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MTM Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">0681-153 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/aor-laattraction.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Frederic Slama, Tommy Denander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53.02</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / Westcoast</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.mtm-music.com" target="new">MTM Music</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>83%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">French soft rock master <b>Frederic Slama</b> can always be relied upon to deliver a silky smooth album mixing Westcoast pop and easy going AOR. The moniker of his long running project reflects the very nature of the music he delivers – pure AOR.<br /> On this occasion, Frederic has teamed with pal <b>Tommy Denander</b> for a more collaborative effort. That means that Denander delivers much of the album's guitar work, programming, keyboards and also bass parts.<br /> No surprise then that this album is dominated by Tommy's trademark production style and guitar sound.<br /> Joining the duo on this record is Tommy's new pal <b>Phillip Bardowell</b>, who he did an album with in 2005 and who also guested on Tommy's current <b>Radioactive</b> album.<br /> So who's album is this? Is this a new <b>AOR</b> album, or a new Denander album? Well, <b>AOR</b> is the name on the marquee, but this latest album is more Denander than anything else.<br /> The 5 lead vocals delivered from <b>Phillip Bardowell </b>are all but a sequel to the duo's great 2005 <font color="#00ffff">In The Cut</font> release. While the album delivers some tasteful examples of silky smooth Westcoast/AOR, it is these 5 tracks that stand out from the pack.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How Could I Forget Her</font> is a nice uptempo melodic rocker, while the uptempo, but heartfelt <font color="#ffff00">Like An Open Book</font> is an album highlight and is as good as any track from the <font color="#00ffff">In The Cut</font> release. Bardowell also sings on <font color="#ffff00">I Won't Give Up On You, Last Chance At Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">LA Winds</font>.<br /> Of the non Bardowell sung tracks, <font color="#ffff00">One More Chance</font> stands out as the best. The <b>J. Lynn Johnson</b> sung Westcoast track is as smooth as they come and features a strong, memorable chorus. Johnson also appears on <font color="#ffff00">The House Of Love</font>, which is another strong track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Give A Little Love</font> is somewhat of a u-turn for the album stylistically, featuring the soulful R&B of vocalist <b>Dane Donohue</b>. Classy Westcoast for those that live for the pink and fluffy.<br /> Guest musicians are always part of the AOR legacy and on this release we see <b>Steve Lukather, Rick Riso, Peter Friestedt, Michael Landau, David Williams</b> and more featured.<br /> Sadly the very sparse liner notes offer no details of their parts or particular songs, so it will left to guess work to figure out these guest spots. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> Half this album sounds like a sequel to <font color="#00ffff">In The Cut</font>, the other half will sound more familiar to those that have followed Slama and his AOR brand since the start. The music featured is very tasteful, very smooth and well thought-out slices of Westcoast/AOR and will appeal to fans of those featured within, and the newly created <b>Denander/Bardowell</b> partnership.<br /> I personally prefer the previous releases <font color="#00ffff">LA Reflection</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Dreaming Of LA</font>, but there remains good consistency with the AOR name. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Concession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next Stop: LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Reflecton<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreaming Of LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing But The Best<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Attraction</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Philip Bardowell, Rick Riso, J.Lynn Johnston, Dane Donohue:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Frédéric Slama:</b> Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander:</b> Guitars, Keyboards, Bass, Programming<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Heredia:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Lukather, Peter Friestedt, David Diggs, Michael Landau:</b> Guests</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Westcoast / Soft AOR</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Philip Bardowell</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">If you liked this release - also check out:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Philip Bardowell</b> - In The Cut</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> How Could I Ever Forgive Her <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Ever Say Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One More Chance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Like An Open Book <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The House Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears In The Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Won't Give Up On You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Spark Of My Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Chance At Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> L.A Winds<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give A Little Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost In Your Eyes<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#de2929" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Big Cock</b> <font color="#ffffff">Year Of The Cock</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">BCCD1101 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/bigcock-yearofthecock.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Big Cock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 34.39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/us.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Hard Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.bigcockrocks.com" target="new">Big Cock</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>85%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>80%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">A truly daft band name or cleaver marketing ploy to gain attention? A bit of both perhaps!<br /> Band name aside, the guys behind the name should gain the attention of some rock fans due to their resumes.<br /> The band's hard rocking guitarist is <i>Dave Henzerling</i> (a.k.a. David Michael-Philips - <b>King Kobra, Keel, Lizzy Borden</b>) and the attitude filled lead vocals are delivered with aplomb by <b>Robert Mason (Lynch Mob, Cry of Love)</b>.<br /> Together the guys have created a record that forgets about trends, popular styles and the expected and just delivers a pure, high-octane dose of old school rock n roll.<br /> There is a dash of <b>Lynch Mob</b> sleaze, a hint of <b>Lizzy Borden</b> glam, some honest <b>Keel</b> rock n roll and even a touch of <b>King Kobra's</b> melodic sensibility.<br /> Mesh that all together with a no-BS <b>AC/DC</b> style guitar driven hard rock swagger and you get <b>Big Cock</b>.<br /> There are no keyboards here and there is no padding either. The songs average 2:50 in length and all get straight to the point.<br /> This is a good fun release that is not to be taken seriously, rather just enjoyed for what it is.<br /> The sound is raw and stripped back to basics without ever compromising quality and the performances are exactly what you would hope for from two establish industry veterans.<br /> Highlights include the slow and sleazy hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Bad Motherfucker</font>; the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">Cinnamon</font>; the 80s hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">King Of Cool</font> and the uptempo blues of <font color="#ffff00">Mean Street Machine</font>, the <b>King Kobra</b> album cut .<br /> Also featured on the album is another new take on a <b>King Kobra</b> classic - <font color="#ffff00">Take It Off</font>. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> The guys don't try and break any new ground or tear down any boundaries. This is just plain, honest and enjoyable melodic hard rock – albeit, with a slew of suggestive lyrics that Gene Simmons would be proud of. Not an immediate knock-out and the album is a little short on running time, but it grows into something rather catchy indeed and its great to step back into a trend free zone for a dose of honest rock n roll. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Year Of The Cock</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Mason:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Henzerling:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Covington:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Ouimette:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Mason</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lynch Mob</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Michael-Philips</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Motherfucker <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Want it All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cinnamon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King of Cool <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carrie's in Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mean Street Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take It Off <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dynamite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard to Swallow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Old No. 7<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Suck the Love Out of Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Year of the Cock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thank You, Good Night<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c46200" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Crimsonfire</b> <font color="#ffffff">Crimsonfire</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Majestic Rock Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">MAJCD067 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/crimsonfire.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Not Listed</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 59.16</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/jp.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/au.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.majesticrock.com" target="new">Majestic Rock</a> <a href="http://www.crimsonfire.com.au" target="new">Crimsonfire</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>85%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>86%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Melodic metal is alive and well down under. <b>Crimsonfire</b> is the latest Aussie metal outfit to make waves overseas, following popular releases from <b>Vanishing Point, Dungeon</b> and <b>Black Majesty</b>.<br /> From Melbourne - the rock n roll capital of Australia – <i>Crimsonfire</i> are going to appeal to fans of prog-metal and also fans of straight ahead metal like <b>Iron Maiden</b>.<br /> Vocalist <b>Louie "Lewis" Gorgievski</b> compares favourably to <b>Bruce Dickinson</b> with his pitch and delivery and puts in a powerful performance on the band's debut.<br /> Musically speaking, the guys have a dramatic flair to their music, which is complex enough to appeal to prog-metal heads, yet simplistic and melodic enough to appeal to the other side of the fan spectrum – those that prefer it relatively straight forward.<br /> Swirling keyboards don't dominate the sound, but they do help guide the songs through different stages and are always there to accompany what are some great guitar riffs.<br /> The rhythm section is tight and overall, the production quality of the album really is first rate. For a debut album, this is very good. For an Aussie band's debut album, this is great!<br /> Highlights include the uptempo and musically lush opening track <font color="#ffff00">Eternal Days</font>, which features layers of keyboards; the double time hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">A New Dawn</font>, with those hard edged Maiden style riffs; the building epic <font color="#ffff00">Morning Of The Magician</font> and the haunting <font color="#ffff00">Darkside To Sanity</font>, which starts slow and builds in intensity.<br /> The piano dominated <font color="#ffff00">Tears In A Grey Storm</font> is also worth checking out for a well placed change in pace. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Crimsonfire</b> deliver an album of traditional melodic metal. There are both American and English metal influences, which is typical of Australian acts, who are traditionally exposed to the best from both countries. Add in a little of this countries' rock culture and a very interesting album is formed. This is of a high enough quality that the guys should find themselves with an increasing fan base from an international audience thanks to their label. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Crimsonfire</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Louie Gorgievski:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Anthony Tabone:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Domenic Pinto:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Yoannidis:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dianne Melichar:</b> Keyboards</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Iron Maiden</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Silent Majesty</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Eternal Days <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A New Dawn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reign In Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Morning Of The Magicians <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Age Of Aquarius<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Empire Of Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Darkside To Sanity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Region Of Legends<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears In A Grey Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rising Sands<br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#8080c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lydian Sea</b> <font color="#ffffff">Architect Of Humanity</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie</font></h4> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/lydiansea-architectofhumanity.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Ron Gonzalez</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70.31</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive Hard Rock / Melodic Metal</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.lydiansea.com" target="new">Lydian Sea</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ff8000" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>88%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>84%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">This is a release which will be of definite interest to progressive rock fans.<br /> American prog-rockers <b>Lydian Sea</b> have recorded an impressive album that relies on the listener sitting down and getting to know the record.<br /> This is an album which is anything but instant. It is also an album which does not rely on choruses or big hooks. Both are present within the songs, but only once you get a little ore familiar with the record.<br /> The guys have a lot going on within the songs and each track features small deviations within. What is recognizable very early on is that the guys have a solid sound and an even mix and clearly know how to play their instruments.<br /> I can hear a little <b>Rush</b> and <b>Dream Theater</b> in the guitar riffing, a little <b>Toto</b> in the percussion and a little <b>Kings X</b> in the vocals.<br /> Their song arrangements are carefully devised, and the changes in pace and delivery are subtle enough to blend into the songs. And the album isn't devoid of choruses; they are there, but they help guide the song rather than being the normal focal point.<br /> Highlights from the album include <font color="#ffff00">Hope</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Indecision</font>, which both feature re-occurring choruses; the heavier and more dramatic <font color="#ffff00">Running Dry</font> is also a song I find myself going back to.<br /> The guys have an American rock sound which will please some. European bands have been moving to take over prog crown in recent years, so it is good to hear a US act with the chops to compete. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> An original sound and an engaging lead vocalist coupled with some musically diverse and interesting songs make this a release worthy of investigation. It takes some time to get into the material, or to get to know the songs and everything going on within, but it is time well spent. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Architect of Humaity</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ron Gonzales:</b> Guitars, Keyboards, Lead & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danny McCartney:</b> Lead & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike McCarron:</b> Drums, Percussion & Bacing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Szot:</b> Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dream Theater</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Progressive, but melodic hard rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Hope<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Providence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Indecision<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Running Dry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Architect Of Humaity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All That Ends<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Media Curtain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beneath Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Embracing Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Temptation's Shadow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Land Of The Free<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="review-item"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" width="75%"><font color="#c0c0c0" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Retrograde</b> <font color="#ffffff">This Frequency We Share</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Atenzia Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ATZ02035 </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table align="center" bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top"> <table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td valign="top" width="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/retrograde-thisfrequencyweshare.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="58%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="40%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Produced By:</b> Dwight A Baker</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56.27</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Out Now</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b><img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/eu.png" /> <img alt="" src="/files-archive/reviews/flags/ca.png" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Modern Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Links:</b> <a href="http://www.atenzia.com" target="new">Atenzia</a> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="20%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#ffff00" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>72%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Songs: </b>55%</font></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#000000" height="25"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>Sound: </b>90%</font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#000000"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><b>Atenzia Records</b> have placed a major focus on developing new artists in the modern rock format. Their primary focus has been to break new ground with new artists. Another new artist has just released their new album – Canadian modern rockers <b>Retrograde</b>.<br /> These guys already have one album and an EP to their name and Atenzia looked to extended their reach beyond a cult following in North America.<br /> These guys have come up with a great package. The CD looks great, the sound is almost flawless – the production and mix are major label quality – but ultimately, I find the songs relatively dull and I'm certainly not inspired enough to play this ay further once the review process is completed.<br /> The opening two tracks rock with a little attitude and I think would fit comfortably on modern rock radio just about anywhere. But would they stand out on their own as something you hadn't heard before? No.<br /> In fact, the often plodding pace of <b>Retrograde's</b> music offers nothing new to my ears whatsoever.<br /> There are some great modern rock acts out there like <b>Ra, Anberlin</b> and <b>Swirl 360</b>, just to name three. But they have their own sound – <b>Retrograde</b> to me sound like too many other acts all struggling to fit the same format and appeal to the same crowd.<br /> There really isn't anything wrong with this album at all. The songs – despite a slow tempo – are well written and flow effortlessly into one another, but I still don't see any spark that would make this CD one I'd listen to past this review.<br /> I think this ground has already been covered well and truly and I think people are looking for something a little different.<br /> I just think these guys are going to struggle to find a loyal audience. </font> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#b11b1c" face="helvetica" size="3"><b>The Bottom Line</b></font></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> <b>Retrograde</b> have a solid album here – great sound, great look, but ultimately there are another 20 or 30 bands out there doing the same thing and none of them are breaking any new ground – either artistically or as far as sales impact. I know there are some modern rock fans out there that will lap this up, but for those that read this site looking for something special and original – this sadly isn't it. </font> <table bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Discography / Previously Reviewed</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Retrograde<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Frequency We Share</font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Line Up:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toby Hulse:</b> Lead Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brendan Stoneman:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ben Hulse:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Lazeski :</b> Lead Vocals, Bass</font></font><br />  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Essential For Fans Of:</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern Rock</b> </font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td valign="top" width="50%"> <table bgcolor="#374646" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#b11b1c"> <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2">Track Listing</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> This Frequency We Share<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Letting Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headphones<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Answer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get On With It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Digging In The Dirt<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Over Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Looking Into You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Worth The Wait<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cap Gun Army<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back Where I Belong<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Into The Obvious<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In This<br /> <font color="#ff0000">*</font> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks</font></font></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div><div class="field-item odd" property="content:encoded"><div class="row"><div class="col-md-12"><div class="box-social"><div><label>Share this:</label></div><div data-network="twitter" class="btn btn-success st-custom-button"><i class="fab fa-twitter"></i> Twitter <span class="badge count"></span></div><div data-network="facebook" class="btn btn-success 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