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<!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="California Breed California Breed Frontiers Records FRCD646 · Produced By: Dave Cobb · Running Time: 51 · Release Date: 2014 · Released: World · Musical Style: Classic Rock · Links: Frontiers 92% As is the case with several Glenn Hughes fronted projects, this album might be a real handful to get into for some, but the rewards are great. Glenn Hughes" /> <meta name="generator" content="Drupal 7 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.melodicrock.com/review-archives" /> <link rel="shortlink" href="https://www.melodicrock.com/node/6870" /> <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 Archives" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.melodicrock.com/review-archives" /> <meta property="og:description" content="California Breed California Breed Frontiers Records FRCD646 · Produced By: Dave Cobb · Running Time: 51 · Release Date: 2014 · Released: World · Musical Style: Classic Rock · Links: Frontiers 92% As is the case with several Glenn Hughes fronted projects, this album might be a real handful to get into for some, but the rewards are great. Glenn Hughes moves on from Black Country Communion with pal Jason Bonham and new recruit Andrew Watt to create another groove orientated power trio." /> <meta property="og:updated_time" content="2023-02-24T23:29:55+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="2023-02-09T13:07:47+11:00" /> <meta property="article:modified_time" content="2023-02-24T23:29:55+11:00" /> <meta itemprop="name" content="Review Archives" /> <title>Review Archives | 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" href="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/bootstrap@4.3.1/dist/css/bootstrap.min.css" 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</div> </div> </div> <div class="view-footer"> <p><a href="#page" class="back-to-top">Jump back to navigation</a></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> </div> <div class="col-md-7"> <div class="section"> <div class="breadcrumb"><h2 class="element-invisible">You are here</h2><a href="/">Home</a> › <a href="/reviews">Reviews</a> › </div> <a id="main-content"></a> <h1 class="title" id="page-title">Review Archives</h1> <div class="region region-content"> <div id="block-system-main" class="block block-system first last odd "> <div class="content"> <div id="node-6870" class="node node-page view-mode-full clearfix" about="/review-archives" typeof="sioc:Item foaf:Document"> <div class="teaser-date" > <div class="node-side"> <span property="dc:title" content="Review Archives" 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>California Breed</b> <font color="#ffffff">California Breed</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">FRCD646 </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/californiabreed.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> Dave Cobb</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">As is the case with several <b>Glenn Hughes</b> fronted projects, this album might be a real handful to get into for some, but the rewards are great. Glenn Hughes moves on from <b>Black Country Communion</b> with pal <b>Jason Bonham</b> and new recruit <b>Andrew Watt</b> to create another groove orientated power trio. This project has more of a Hughes solo stamp on it than BCC did, with control issues between Glenn and <b>Joe Bonamassa</b> now a thing of the past.<br /> And Glenn gets to indulge in his favorite pastime here – delivering groove and blues based classic hard rock with a strong 70s edge. Much of this album could have come straight out of 1978, whilst the rest relies on some contemporary production tricks and effects to make a blend of classic rock for the new millennium.<br /> 12 tracks and 51 minutes is probably a touch too long, the album might have been a bit tidier at 40-45 minutes max, but that's a small issue. The main issue is that this rocks! I'm a longtime fan of Hughes who thinks he is at his best when rocking out. To have a project that does that, but also includes his love of soul and blues is ideal.<br /> And while I was sorry to see the demise of BCC, fans of that project will easily adapt to this band.<br /> From the opening swagger of <font color="#ffff00">The Way</font> and the more commercial groove of <font color="#ffff00">Sweet Tea</font>, this is Hughes and Bonham at their best. And newcomer Watt gets on the map with his first outing.<br /> The album features a lot of <b>Led Zeppelin</b> influences, <font color="#ffff00">Chemical Rain</font> and the ballad <font color="#ffff00">All Falls Down</font> most obvious.<br /> Thankfully the guys keep the tempo up for a lot of the album, with rockers like <font color="#ffff00">The Grey</font> flowing beautifully.<br /> When they do slow down to that slow Zeppelinesque groove, such as <font color="#ffff00">Days They Come</font> and the ultra-slow Invisible, they add in very likable chorus hooks to keep things moving.</font><br />   <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 album for everyone, but for those it is aimed at, expect an almost unanimous praising of this release. You're either going to love it or hate it. Thankfully for me I love it – it delivers exactly what I expected from the continued collaboration of <b>Hughes/Bonham</b> and new guy <b>Watt</b> shows he will be around for a long while to come. </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>Neal Schon</b> <font color="#ffffff">So U</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">FRCD634 </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/nealschon-sou-new.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> Neal Schon</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> 2014</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> Blues/R&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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">Following on from Neal's instrumental release <font color="#00ffff">The Calling</font>, and recorded at the same time, the next solo album <font color="#00ffff">So U</font> is finally released, allowing guitar fanatics more inspired guitar playing to absorb.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">So U</font> is a different beast to <font color="#00ffff">The Calling</font> – the most obvious difference being the presence of lead vocals throughout – but the style is also more diverse.<br /> The album centers around the power trio of Neal with <b>Deen Castronovo</b> on drums/vocals and <b>Marco Mendoza</b> bass/vocals. Songwriting contributions come from all three along with <b>Night Ranger's Jack Blades</b> featuring on several tracks.<br /> The majority of So U is heavy groove based R&B/Blues, with plenty of shred included, but not driving the album. This is more about the groovy, baby!<br /> <br /> You've got songs ranging from 4 to 9 minutes and a mixture of influences, from the heavy groove n blues of <font color="#ffff00">Take A Ride, What You Want</font> and <font color="#ffff00">On My Way</font>; to the very cool <font color="#00ffff">Late Nite</font> styled 9 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">So You</font> and the free flowing fun <font color="#ffff00">Shelter</font> – featuring everyone joining in on vocals.<br /> I wouldn't like to suggest there are two tracks that over shadow the rest of the album, but for melodic fans, the thought of hearing the smooth Perry-like vocals of drummer <b>Deen Castronovo</b> is a definite highlight here.<br /> Deen sings lead on the haunting Journey-esque ballad <font color="#ffff00">Love Finds A Way</font>, a sultry song that glides along like an early <b>Journey</b> cut.<br /> The other track is <font color="#ffff00">Serenity</font> – an anthemic rocker that sounds like latter day Journey – something like the style of <font color="#00ffff">Arrival/Revelation</font>.</font><br />   <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 diverse collection of tracks held together by the power-trio performance of <b>Schon, Castronovo</b> and <b>Mendoza</b>. Well recorded and featuring a pretty loose and easy going vibe, the album has plenty of guitar to soak up and some pretty decent vocal performances too – with the impressive Castronovo standing out as a world class vocalist on two tracks Journey fans will devour. </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>Brother Firetribe</b> <font color="#ffffff">Diamond In The Firepit</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Spinefarm</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/brotherfiretribe-diamondinthefirepit.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> Brother Firetribe</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> </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> </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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>Brother Firetribe</b> delivered one-two punch of melodic bliss with their first two albums, but really lost momentum by disappearing for 6 years! They return at last in 2014 armed with <font color="#00ffff">Diamond In The Firepit</font>, picking up precisely where the last album <font color="#00ffff">Heart Full Of Fire</font> left off.<br /> This album is almost musically identical to HFOF with the small exception that it doesn't quite come in as strong as that album did. Let's face it – HFOF is one of the classic albums the melodic rock genre has delivered in the post-heyday era and still gets played regularly here.<br /> So any follow up was always going to be extremely difficult. Add in a 6 year wait and a huge expectation – it makes for an impossible task to deliver. But – the guys really do come close and I still rate this better than the band's debut – which is also another pretty special release.<br /> <b>Brother Firetribe</b> fans are going to adore this album. And a great deal many others too I expect.<br /> <br /> Once you get past a pointless 21 second “intro”, the album explodes in melodic bliss with the energetic and amped up <font color="#ffff00">Love's Not Enough</font>. Layers of classic 80s keyboards drenched in guitars and soaring vocals with a big chorus…what more could you ask for?<br /> Perhaps something like <font color="#ffff00">Far Away From Love</font>, which just like the second track on HFOF, delivers a majestic AOR anthem for all to adore. Wonderful stuff.<br /> The lead single sounds like it came off the <b>Top Gun</b> soundtrack of 1986 - <font color="#ffff00">For Better Or For Worse</font> is another classic cut that is going to remain in high rotation here for months to come.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Desperately</font> is yet another winner, a mild mannered, mid-tempo ballad with another great hook and some very likeable moody vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Edge Of Forever</font> hasn't grown on me as I had hoped it would. I don't like the backing vocals or the intro much, but the verse and chorus (aside from the backing vox) are good.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hanging by a Thread</font> starts slow, but builds momentum and the chorus is another great slice of 1986 AOR without ever sounding dated.<br /> The mid-tempo melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Trail of Tears</font> couldn't be more 80s if it tried, but that's why we love this band. The guitars kick in and bring a tougher feel to the song and the chorus is another great track.<br /> You can't go wrong with covering <b>Sammy Hagar</b> and the band does it with ease on the soundtrack classic <font color="#ffff00">Winner Takes It All</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tired of Dreaming</font> is another keyboard/guitar dueling uptempo track with a ton of harmony vocals throughout. Another great moody chorus leads the way, but with the downfall being that it was already released by <b>The Magnificent</b> a couple of years back (even if it was written by BFT).<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Reality Bites</font> is a classic uptempo rocker with anthemic qualities and a pretty straight up, catchy chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Close To the Bone</font> is the closer and rather than be a ballad like many have chosen in recent years, the song ends the album with one of the heavier, moodier tracks of the whole album. Mid-tempo, but intense.</font><br />   <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, it's another great album from the Finland based AOR Gods. But it's not quite as legendary as <font color="#00ffff">Heart Full Of Fire</font>, both with the production not being as tight as the last album and perhaps a couple of songs don't quite match the brilliance of the past, but the reality is that this is another classic slide of pure melodic bliss and will put that band back at the top alongside <b>Eclipse, H.E.A.T</b> and <b>Work of Art</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>Seven</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">Escape 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/7-seven.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> Lars Chriss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> June 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 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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>Seven</b> is a South African/British AOR group that was working with <b>John Parr</b> back in the early 90s and released a few well received singles, but an album was never completed before the band was unfortunately dropped from their label deal.<br /> The songs remaining unfinished and unreleased for 15 or so years until a little internet resurgence had <b>Escape Music</b> jumping on board and convincing the guys to let them help re-record the whole lot to bring them a new lease on life.<br /> And a new lease on life it has! This is a fabulous album from start to finish with some cracking 80s inspired melodic rock tunes, with a big fat production effort bringing the tunes into the new century, giving fans a great taste of the glory days, with a fresh and exciting production sound.<br /> Producer and guest guitarist <b>Lars Chriss</b> has done a stellar job here. This is a fresh and engaging set of songs.<br /> <br /> There aren't many better songs in 2014 than the ripping opener <font color="#ffff00">Shoot To Kill</font>, which sounds like <b>Places of Power/Foreigner</b> in its approach and vocal style.<br /> The punchy <font color="#ffff00">Inside Love</font> is equally as good – the new production giving these songs a heavier slant than what was originally intended.<br /> And it just keeps on delivering. <font color="#ffff00">Still, Headlines</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Strangers</font> all brilliant melodic rock with an equal dose of guitar and keyboards. And <b>Mick Devine's</b> lead vocals really are ear candy.<br /> The slow and stripped back ballad <font color="#ffff00">Diana</font> gives him another chance to shine.<br /> But it's the latter part of the album that just gets better and better. <font color="#ffff00">America</font> is a moody melodic rocker; <font color="#ffff00">Thru The Night</font> a punchier anthem; and <font color="#ffff00">Never Too Late</font> is just perfect melodic rock – in its fast flowing beat and urgent chorus.<br /> One of the best tracks is saved for the end - <font color="#ffff00">Don't Break My Heart</font> is like classic 80s <b>Heart</b> mixed with <b>Foreigner</b> and delivers a brilliant, powerful chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Say Goodbye</font> is yet another quality melodic rocker to finish on a high.</font><br />   <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 beautifully produced and mixed album here – mixing the best of old school style and melody with a current and contemporary production, benefitting the classy songs written all that while ago. Guests such as <b>Mark Mangold, Adam Wakeman</b> and <b>Fredrik Bergh</b> all on keyboards give you an idea of the style. Absolutely essential for fans of <b>Foreigner, Places of Power</b> and <b>Street Talk</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>Diesel</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into The Fire</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/diesel-intothefire.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> Jim Kirkpatrick & Robert Hart</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">I've seen some very enthusiastic reviews for this album around and can concur with most aspects of those, but at the same time, have a couple of points to add. To summarize, <b>Diesel</b> is a new comeback vehicle for vocalist <b>Robert Hart</b> (solo, Bad Company) and FM guitarist <b>Jim Kirkpatrick</b>. Drummer <b>Jimmy Copley</b> is the perfect addition, having played with <b>Paul Rodgers</b> and <b>Manfred Man</b>, giving this album another classic rock credential.<br /> The album starts off very strong with Love Under Cover, the obligatory 'fired up' opener and Into The Fire sees Hart in good voice and the chorus works.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Starting Over</font> is an earthier mid-tempo track that has backing vocalist <b>Steve Overland</b> all over it.<br /> The plodding <font color="#ffff00">Fortune Favours The Brave</font> has <b>Steve Overland</b> once again all over the bridge and chorus, more prominent than <b>Robert Hart</b> at times. I begin to feel as if this is more <b>FM/Overland</b> than Robert Hart.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Brand New Day</font> is a very <b>Bad Company</b> sounding classic rock track and puts Hart's vocals back squarely in front.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bitter & Twisted</font> does sound like a turbo boosted <b>FM</b> track though!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">So What Is Love</font> is one of the more melodic tracks on the album, but perhaps shows Hart struggling with that wonderfully smooth vocal tone he used to carry with ease.<br /> But the following three tracks really drag for me and give the second half of the album a strong disadvantage over the first half.<br /> For whatever reason, the album closes with a track that shines above all others. <font color="#ffff00">Coming Home</font> is a great melodic mid-tempo number with a sentimental heart. It should have been moved way up in the sequence.</font><br />   <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's earthy, classic rock style might have some fans holding back from purchase, but I imagine there are enough <b>Robert Hart</b> and <b>FM</b> fans around to make the album a success. There's certainly plenty to hear from <b>Hart's Bad Company</b> days and <b>Jim Kirkpatrick's</b> influence over the material with <b>Steve Overland's</b> big backing vocals will please FM fans. I don't think Hart sounds nearly as good as he used to, but this still works and I must say that the production on this album is absolutely top shelf. It's a crisp and clear sounding record with a beautifully balanced mix. So for the most part, we have a strong classic rock themed rock album with a bluesy edge and a good uptempo flow. </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>Timo Tolkki's Avalon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Angels Of The Apocalypse</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">FRCD645 </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/timotolkkiavalon-angelsoftheapocalypse.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> Timo Tolkki</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> Symphonic 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>55%</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">I realize that <b>Timo Tolkki's</b> reputation was built on the back of some much admired work in <b>Straovarius</b>, but his comeback vehicle – the debut <b>Avalon</b> release in 2012 wasn't something that matched the excellence of his past.<br /> So it was with interest I awaited the next chapter in Avalon, boasting an even more impressive lineup including vocalists <b>Floor Jansen, Simone Simons, Fabio Lione, David DeFeis, Zachary Stevens, Elize Ryd, Caterina Nix</b>.<br /> Some big names there for those that follow symphonic metal.<br /> I'm sorry to say that <font color="#00ffff">Angels Of The Apocalypse</font>, the second Avalon rock opera, is equally as unimpressive as the debut. Perhaps even worse.<br /> It didn't take much to pinpoint why. I just don't think the songs cut it. Yes, they are big, bombastic and everything musically that a rock opera should be – but without ever capturing the attention of this listener.<br /> I just don't rate these songs and to be honest, I'm not convinced by some of the vocal performances either.<br /> The vocals on <font color="#ffff00">Rise Of The 4th Reich</font> are simply painful to listen to. A terrible one line chorus doesn't make it any easier to like. But sadly that song isn't alone. I've tried to live with this, but the more I hear, the less I like it.</font><br />   <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 just feels like it is all over the place and there really aren't any major hooks to draw you back in for more. Timo needs to re-think what he is trying to deliver and who he is working with if he's to get back to the best of what he's capable of. This is just a little too self-indulgent for my liking. </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>Mother Road</b> <font color="#ffffff">Drive</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/motherroad-drive.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> Chris Lyne</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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/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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">How many people are going to hear the name <b>Keith Slack</b> and wet themselves at the prospect of another <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> soundalike project? Yes, the powerhouse melodic rock vocalist is front and center here, but this is anything but a melodic rock project. And that's not a bd thing – you will just have to decide if this style is for you.<br /> And Keith does sound great of course – impossible for him not to – but <b>Mother Road</b> is a heavy blues driven classic 70s rock band, not an AOR/melodic band.<br /> <b>Soul Doctor</b> guitarist <b>Chris Lyne</b> brings his bluesy edge to Keith's Texas based love of authentic old-school rhythm and blues based music, with an organ/blues guitar drenched <b>ZZ Top</b> meets <b>Led Zeppelin</b>-esque sound driving the bulk of this album's material.<br /> In all honesty, this is a very good record for what it is. It's pretty heavy, authentic, honest, classic 70s rock. The mind of thing <b>Bad Company</b> does with <b>Paul Rodgers</b> or early <b>Whitesnake</b>, with Keith doing some pretty decent 70s Coverdale here too.<br /> So immediately the band paints themselves into a narrow corridor of musical taste, which will rely on the listener being a fan of.<br /> If you are – this album is a treat. But if you are looking for straight ahead melodic rock, you won't find it here.</font><br />   <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 plods along a bit, which these blues based albums tend to do and that's my biggest turn off to be honest. I'm not a fan of slow to mid-tempo blues driven romps. But for the most part this is an enjoyable slice of classic rock and delivers exactly what the guys set out to achieve. The production is a little base heavy and muddy in places, but it's all above the vibe and if 1970s blues rock is your thing, this is a very authentic 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>Dynazty</b> <font color="#ffffff">Renatus</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Spinefarm</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/dynazty-renatus.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> Dynazty</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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 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.dynazty.com" target="new">www.dynazty.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</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">If you are like me and believe that <b>Masterplan</b> has been treading water (or sinking) since their glorious debut and sophomore releases, then without hesitation, rush out and grab this new album from Swedish hard rockers <b>Dynazty</b>.<br /> The guys have reworked their sound from sleazy melodic hard rock, to full on, double barrel, take no prisoners melodic metal, with all the style, flair and energy that <b>Masterplan</b> once had.<br /> This is one hell of a powerful ride and the guys have really nailed their desire to go heavier, but without losing what made them a great melodic act in the first place.<br /> The kick drums are furious, the shredding over the top and the vocals are in your face.<br /> What's especially enjoyable about this release is the brain-crushing production mixed with some really strong songs that truly destroy the speakers, while maintaining a melodic heart at all costs.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Cross The Line</font> is a brilliant opener with a defining chorus hook; <font color="#ffff00">Starlight</font> is as furious as anything <b>Masterplan</b> won praise for delivering; <font color="#ffff00">Dawn Of Your Creation</font> has a killer chorus and it just keeps coming.<br /> There simply isn't a weak track here and each song has its own flair, giving the listener one treat after another.<br /> And when one of the album's standout anthems comes as late as the second last track (the epic 7 minute <font color="#ffff00">Salvation</font> is just stunning), then you just know the band has delivered a classic for the ages.</font><br />   <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's heavy, it's intense, but it's so melodic and the very commercial and likable vocals are a treat for the ears. The band has made a conscious decision to go heavy and have nailed it. If you liked <b>Masterplan, Eclipse's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Bleed & Scream</font> or the latest <b>Eden's Curse</b>, then run out and check this out STAT. One of my favourite really heavy albums in recent times. </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>Sunstrike</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock Your World</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/sunstrike-rockyourworld.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> SunStrike / Mixed: Erik Martensson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">This album came out of nowhere. Yet another classy Swedish melodic rock act – this band was formed by guitarist <b>Joachim Nordlund</b> and the drummer <b>Johan Lindstedt</b> together with singer <b>Christian Hedgren</b> (Twilight Force, The Theander Expression).<br /> Mixing the best elements of <b>Bon Jovi, Reckless Love, Brother Firetribe</b> and <b>H.E.A.T</b>, Sweden's Sunstrike make what could be the best debut of 2014 here.<br /> This album is everything that fans of BFT and H.E.A.T have been raving about over the last few years – high energy, anthemic melodic hard rock, with soaring vocals, big choruses and a nod to the sounds of the 80s, whilst being delivered in a strong contemporary production.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Power of the Dreams</font> is a high-octane opener, it's <font color="#ffff00">Rock Your World</font> that makes you sit up and take note. The song might be lyrically clichéd, but man, does it…er…rock! Killer chorus and some outstanding lower and higher register vocals. There really aren't any gaps in the quality of Sunstrike's debut. Track for track it delivers, but the highlights for me include the <b>Reckless Love</b> styled pop/anthem <font color="#ffff00">Right Track</font>; the harder edged <b>H.E.A.T</b>-like <font color="#ffff00">Roll The Dice</font>; the AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Never Let You Go</font> and the <b>Brother Firetribe</b> keyboard heavy <font color="#ffff00">Into The Light</font>; plus there's the classic closing track <font color="#ffff00">Heat Of The Night</font> which sounds straight out of 1984.</font><br />   <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"> Anyone that's spent the last few years soaking up <b>Brother Firetribe, H.EA.T, Work Of Art, Reckless Love</b> and the likes of those guys need to add Sunstrike to their must buy list. It's a standout debut from Sweden yet again, proving that Scandinavia is the hot bed of melodic rock for the new millennium. Well produced, well written and beautifully sung. Great stuff. </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>Alien</b> <font color="#ffffff">Eternity</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/alien-eternity.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> Alien</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> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Any <b>Jim Jidhead</b> record is a good record and to have the original <b>Alien</b> back together lifts expectations higher than normal.<br /> Thankfully the Swedish AOR Gods deliver – big time. This album sees direct comparison to their hailed classic self-titled debut. They really seem to have recaptured the magic fans hoped for.<br /> Pure Scandi-AOR, delivered with a strong production and layers of vocals over guitars and keyboards galore….it just doesn't get better for the pink and fluffy brigade.<br /> This is old-school AOR – mid-80s styled, with a good mix and some very catchy songs. <b>Jim Jidhed</b> sounds great, as does the rest of the band in their respective roles.<br /> <br /> This is a very consistent album with enough differences between the songs to make things interesting. The tempo is largely up, aside from a couple of big ballads – <font color="#ffff00">I Believe</font> and the stark <font color="#ffff00">In Truth</font> are both excellent. The mid-tempo ballad <font color="#ffff00">I'm A Fighter</font> also appeals.<br /> Elsewhere around the album, highlights include the terrific opening <font color="#ffff00">In Love We Trust</font>; the fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Unbroken</font>; the classic AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Love Will Lead Me Home</font> and the warmth of <font color="#ffff00">Summer Of Love</font> plus the feel good <font color="#ffff00">Liar Liar</font>.<br /> The only song that doesn't really strike a chord with me is the jangly keyboard driven <font color="#ffff00">What Goes Up</font>, whose chorus and keyboard fill are both kinda of annoying. </font><br />   <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"> Strike another one up for the Swedes. Surely it can't keep coming without end in sight? Well, regardless of that, let's enjoy these releases while we can. Quality like this helps fans of the glory days of the 80s continue without any need to move into the now. Welcome back <b>Alien</b> – nice to have you around again. </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>H.E.A.T</b> <font color="#ffffff">Tearing Down The Walls</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Gain/Sony</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/heat-tearingdownthewalls.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.heatsweden.com" target="new">H.E.A.T</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="#b11b1c" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>100%</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">Swedish melodic rock heroes <b>H.E.A.T</b> return with an album that evens the ledger as far as the fan base goes. It's now 2 albums with the original vocalist <b>Kenny Leckremo</b> and this makes two with new recruit <b>Erik Gronwall</b>.<br /> The band's debut was utterly sensational and put the band on the map instantly. <font color="#00ffff">Freedom Rock</font> let the foot off the pedal a little I felt, but with Erik's addition to the band, <font color="#00ffff">Address The Nation</font> in 2012 well and truly put the band back into high gear, even if the direction changed ever so slightly.<br /> So on the back of 2 years of touring, the guys return tighter than ever (minus second guitarist <b>Dave Dalone</b>). Dave's departure hasn't affected the band at all – strangely, the use of the one guitarist and song choices here have toughened up the band's sound.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Tearing Down The Walls</font> sees the band continue the winning formula of <font color="#00ffff">Address The Nation</font>, albeit with a slightly heavier approach on the songs and a more straight ahead, take no prisoners attitude.<br /> Let's no beat around the bush here - this is a monster album. It is the sort of album that comes around only once every year or two that firmly stamps it's authority on the rock scene and through its brilliance, defines just why we are all fans of this music and of tis band in particular.<br /> If they could bottle up the energy on this record, it could power a small nation of metal heads for a decade.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Point Of No Return</font> is everything you could wish an opening track to be. It builds, it explodes, it delivers a knockout chorus, and it delivers all the guitars and big harmonies you would die for.<br /> I didn't expect the style of <font color="#ffff00">A Shot At Redemption</font> at all. It snuck up on me and is something fresh and original for the band. But as with everything H.E.A.T – it latches on and doesn't let go. Ever!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Inferno</font> is simply a monster, barnstorming rocker with a screw you attitude, a few edgy lyrics and a head pounding beat.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Wreckoning</font> is a short intro into the big anthem ballad for the album. Not too often does a title track lend itself to being a big chart topping, hands in the air ballad, but Tearing Down The Walls is just that. And what a soaring chorus it is!<br /> Too much has already been made of the similarities between the track <font color="#ffff00">Mannequin Show</font> and that of a chart topping bimbo and to those comparisons I say, screw it! This is a deliciously quirky melodic rocker with another great chorus that really digs in. It grooves, it rocks and it's as catchy as hell.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">We Will Never Die</font> is one of the album's more straight forward tracks – but that said – the mid-tempo rocker still contains all the energy of the other songs and delivers another great chorus.<br /> Another classic comes immediately with the driving, fast beat of the 'urgent' track <font color="#ffff00">Emergency</font>. It rocks and it rolls and the chorus goes right over the top, with harmonies and guitars to the rafters.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All The Nights</font> is the album's quietest moment. The classy and emotional, sentimental piano ballad is a great change in pace and beautifully produced.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Eye For An Eye</font> has to be one of the standout hard rockers of recent years. This hard hitting, powerful rock track is another classic on an album of classics and one I still look forward to hearing even after 100 spins of this album. Another killer chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Enemy In Me</font> lifts the intensity just slightly, but not the pace. Fast and furious and full on. Another great hard rock track with immaculate production.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Laughing At Tomorrow</font> is yet another highlight and yet another H.E.A.T classic for me. As if all the other tracks aren't anyway…but there's something special about this one especially. The mellower verse that leads to the big harmony filled chorus is a lesson in great songwriting for most. After the rollicking ride that this album delivers, it's simply a perfect way to close out proceedings.</font><br />   <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 production on this album is simply breathtaking as is the mix – it's just so easy on the ears, no matter what volume it's played at – the majority of occasions obviously being ear splittingly loud.<br /> <b>H.E.A.T</b> deserve to be where they are – which is on an upward trajectory – but they deserve to be worldwide sensations, not just European or Swedish stars. This album, coupled with their growing legacy as a killer live act, will hopefully prove to be another step towards world domination.<br /> Based on how long I listened to <font color="#00ffff">Address The Nation</font> after its release and how fresh this sounds each time I put it on, I have no hesitation in delivering the first 100 score at MelodicRock.com in 2 years! </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>Winger</b> <font color="#ffffff">Better Days Comin'</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/winger-betterdayscomin.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> 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> 50</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> 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">It still baffles me why the credibility challenged <b>MTV</b> decided to use <b>Winger</b> as the genre's whipping boy back in the 90s. The collective musical talent of these 4 guys was and remains beyond the grasp of 99% of the bands elevated to hero status during the 90s on that network. And as if to prove the point, Winger remain actively kicking ass in their 26th year.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Better Days Comin'</font> is the new album, the band's 6th studio album and one that fits snuggly between the darker vibe of <font color="#00ffff">IV</font> and the looser, old-school sounding <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> record.<br /> In fact, <font color="#00ffff">Better Days Comin'</font> almost sounds like a greatest hits album for the band.<br /> Of the 11 tracks on the special edition, there's something touching each facet of the band's styles over the years. It is a compelling record that boasts musical intelligence, awareness of what the fans want and a touch of adventure.<br /> Within the record you get the best of early Winger - the hard rocking party boys that seemed a step ahead of the pack musically - with the anthemic driving trio of ass-whipping tunes <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Driver Of A Love Machine, Queen Babylon</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Rat Race</font> (possibly the most furious Winger tune yet). <font color="#ffff00">Better Days Comin'</font> is something new and fresh with its quirky chorus and breezy pace.<br /> Winger IV gets a nod with the dark, progressive and technical rocker <font color="#ffff00">Tin Soldier</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Ever Wonder</font> reminds me of the mature and atmospheric ballads from <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">So Long China</font> has a hard edged verse, yet a breezy melodic chorus – the contradiction of the two aspects and the layered instrumentation making the song a highlight.<br /> Latter day Winger gets another nod with the distorted, effects heavy modern rocker <font color="#ffff00">Storm In Me</font> which contrasts starkly with the orchestral influenced moody ballad <font color="#ffff00">Be Who You Are, Now</font>.<br /> The bonus track <font color="#ffff00">Another Beautiful Day</font> is another dirty modern rocker which leads into the also dark, but optimistic <font color="#ffff00">Out Of This World</font> – a soaring ballad that oozes class and instant appeal.</font><br />   <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 cracking <b>Winger</b> album. I'm probably favoring <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> narrowly ahead of this, but either way it's all class. It's a musically diverse album that if done by any other band probably wouldn't work. You need something special for the style changes between songs to work and that special something is Winger. </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>Three Lions</b> <font color="#ffffff">Three Lions</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/threelions.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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</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> 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">It's a career full-circle for guitarist <b>Vinny Burns</b> who returns to the melodic rock of his early days in <b>Ten</b>, as <b>Three Lions</b> makes their debut album available. Formed by Burns with fellow Ten alumni <b>Greg Morgan</b> and newcomer bassist/vocalist <b>Nigel Bailey</b>, the trio is set to make a mark.<br /> Produced and assisted musically by <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b>, the album has a tight, crisp feel that is simply British melodic rock through and through. Vocalist Bailey is similar to Ten's <b>Gary Hughes</b> in that he doesn't have a big vocal range, but has a warm, likable tone that suits the style and the delivery here.<br /> It's great to hear Vinny wailing again and the trio plays as if they have been a band unit for several years already. At 13 tracks and nearly an hour in length, it's a very long album that could have used a little editing, with a 2 or 3 fillers in play, but there's some superb melodic rock on offer too.<br /> Highlights for the album are the obvious opener <font color="#ffff00">Trouble In A Red Dress</font>; the organ driven anthem <font color="#ffff00">Just A Man</font>; and the uptempo AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Holy Water</font>.<br /> There is also a few classy ballads - <font color="#ffff00">Winter Sun</font> is a great starter and <font color="#ffff00">Two Hearts Beat As One</font> is classic British AOR; <font color="#ffff00">Don't Let Me Fall</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Made For One Another</font> are also very good – the only downfall is the tracks come in a mid-album pace vacuum.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Magdalene</font> finally picks up the tempo again and delivers another strong melodic rock tune. And <font color="#ffff00">Hellfire Highway</font> is a fast rocker that could have been used a few tracks earlier.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sicilian Kiss</font> is a guitar instrumental to close the album with Vinny in full flight.<br /> I'm not that sold on the fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Twisted Soul</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Kathmandu</font> is one too many mid-tempo tracks and I think the second half of the album suffers from too many slower paced songs.</font><br />   <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 style mixes that of early Ten and perhaps a more 70s sounding British rock approach. The album sounds great and has a nice sound of its own. I do think that the tempo – especially mid to late album – drags a little and it could have used a couple of more tracks like the best track of the album, the opening <font color="#ffff00">Trouble In A Red Dress</font> in place of a few fillers. A very good start to a new chapter for the lads and I expect bigger and even better things from album number 2 in due course. </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>Sebastian Bach</b> <font color="#ffffff">Give Em Hell</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/sebastianbach-giveemhell.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 Marlette</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 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 18</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 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">It seems the older Sebastian gets, the higher his vocals go. On <font color="#00ffff">Give Em Hell</font> he hits a few new record highs that dogs will appreciate, not only with the screams. It's an interesting album this – producer <b>Bob Marlette</b> collaborates even more so, credited within for writing music and “melody” on many tracks, while also playing bass.<br /> Guests seem to make up the majority of the album – <b>Duff McKagan</b> plays bass on several tracks and even guitars on another; <b>Steve Stevens</b> plays on a few others and gets writing credits on those songs – not that I could really pick his usual tone out here – most of the album is down tuned, modernized metal.<br /> Sebastian writes all lyrics and “melody” and attributes “music” to others. Make of that what you will, to me it says this is a collaborative effort, spread across several different people. This is a typically dark, heavy and modern record that is seriously heavy for the most part and continues where Sebastian left off with his last album.<br /> If that appealed to you – then this is probably more consistent again and certainly benefits from a big Marlette production.<br /> But overall, I'm just not a big fan of this style of modern metal albums. I much prefer Sebastian in <b>Skid Row</b>, although we all know that ship sailed long ago. Since then he really hasn't used the same vocal approach and I miss it. He's a monster vocalist.</font><br />   <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 remains a very good album for what it is, but I've really struggled to maintain interest while playing back for review and I probably won't go back to it after this. But - the score reflects the quality of the album s always, my tastes aside. So those that know my taste, for better or worse, could use these comments as a gauge of how it will appeal to you.<br /> Those that loved <font color="#00ffff">Kicking And Screaming</font> will have no problem jumping right into this and lapping up "modern" Seb in all his screaming glory. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/dreamtheater.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Dream Theater</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Dream Theater</font> – Roadrunner</b> – Dream Theater's cracking new (from 2013 at least) self-titled album really is a return to songs playing the most prominent role in the album. I really can't stand the needless prog-wank that takes up most 10 minute plus songs, yet even the 22 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">Illumination Theory</font> on here is constructed from melodies that last the distance. It's quite an exquisite piece of music. And when the guys hammer out some metal, there's a definite structure in place, more so than in recent albums I feel. Above all – this album features great songs and some beautiful melodies, especially with <font color="#ffff00">Enemy Inside, The Looking Glass</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Bigger Picture</font>.<br /> I love Rush and I feel as if this is as close to <b>Rush</b> as the band has come before. Right up there with <font color="#00ffff">Images And Words</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Falling Into Infinity</font> for me. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/iloverich-respecttherich.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">I Love Rich</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Respct The Rich</font> – Indie</b> – Albums like these don't deserve to be reviewed. Anything that uses song titles like <font color="#ffff00">(You're So Hot) I'm Going To Fuck You With The Lights On</font> and <font color="#ffff00">If You Don't Take Your Clothes Off, Tonight's Gonna Suck</font> really don't deserved to be manufactured. These CDs will instead take up space at the local landfill while they disintegrate under the weight of bird shit dropped upon them. But I review this to warn anyone silly enough to be so drunk to make such a purchase seem appealing. It's not. And it also serves to demonstrate that amongst all the very fine records on the market currently, that there always remains the danger of amateurish turds like this floating past. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#06bcf9" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>3%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/houston-2.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Houston</font> – <font color="#00ffff">II</font> – Cargo Records</b> – No idea why this has been left on my shelf for so long, but it's not due to quality. It is another fine album from the Swedish AOR outfit. As pink and fluffy as a pretty kitten and as keyboard friendly as a Gregg Giuffria solo album. I think the debut still stands out above this, but Scandi AOR doesn't get much better than this. <b>Ricky Delin's</b> production and keyboard parts hold the record in fine standing and <b>Hank Erix</b> is a very likable lead vocalist. And best thing – no shitty programmed drums – thanks to the beats of <b>Freddie Allen</b>. Fans of pure 80s keyboard fluff-n-AOR need this. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/johnelefante-onmywaytothesun.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">John Elefante</font> – <font color="#00ffff">On My Way To The Sun</font> – Indie</b> – John is obviously a huge talent, so it's no surprise to find this openly Christian melodic rock album a joy to listen to – both through the positive message delivered and the absolutely brilliant American melodic rock within. Well overdue for a review, I hope these few words will encourage some new listeners to engage in this album. From the <b>Kansas</b> influenced opening 10 minute epic of <font color="#ffff00">This Is How The Story Goes</font> (with violinist <b>David Ragsdale</b> guesting), to the anthemic melodic rock glory of <font color="#ffff00">On My Way To The Sun, Half The Way Home</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Awakening</font>; to the real life inspired storytelling of <font color="#ffff00">This Time</font>; it's all quality and John's voice really is something special. This is a different beast compared to the <b>Mastodon</b> band project, but still very engaging. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/recklesslove-spirit.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Reckless Love</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Spirit</font></b> – Finland's Reckless Love have a devoted fanbase to rival Sweden's <b>H.E.A.T</b>. Sound wise they are a little closer to <b>Wig Wam</b> or <b>Poison</b>; aligned more to the glam side of the spectrum. <font color="#00ffff">Spirit</font> is their third studio album and best to date. It's packed with high energy, feel good glam tinged hard rock, with almost as many chorus hooks as there are guitar solos. I don't think the band has the serious edge of some other players and they really do themselves no favors with stupid tracks like <font color="#ffff00">I Love Heavy Metal</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Metal Ass</font>. Those songs almost derailed my enjoyment of this album. Take those out and you have some brilliant anthem filled hard rockers with a nod towards <b>Def Leppard</b> in the production category. This is a feel good release not to be taken too seriously, but rather cranked as loud as it can go…when the mood suits of course. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/swedishhitzgoesmetal-volume2.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Swedish Hitz Goes Metal Vol. 2</font> – AIS</b> – Volume 2??? Seriously?? Sorry folks, if you were silly enough to buy Volume 1 – then you deserve this equally insipid metallized collection of <b>Abba</b> covers. Oh, and 3 or 4 other Swedish artists that no one has ever heard of. This isn't metallized in the cool sense of the word; rather it's blown out to be stupendously pompous with neo-classical flair and screaming vocals. Really bad, flat, passionless vocals. Here's a better suggestion – track down <b>Black Sweden</b>, which is at the other end of the class scale to this nonsense. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#06bcf9" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>10%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> <br />  </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>L.R.S.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Down To The Core</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/lrs-downtothecore.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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">This is one of the smoothest records I have heard in a long time. It's a very fine slice of mature, well-written and executed traditional AOR, featuring some of the finest people the genre has to offer. First it's a huge pleasure to hear the ear candy vocals of <b>Tommy La Verdi</b> back in the melodic game finally – it's been way too long for a guy with a voice born for this.<br /> And <b>Josh Ramos</b> – one guitarist with an absolute natural affinity for this style of music – has also been underutilized in recent years. Drummer <b>Mike Shotton</b> is an inspired choice to drive the band's sound and his playing style gives the album a thumping beat and slightly progressive twist in several tunes.<br /> The architect of the album is <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> – layering the songs with keyboards as well as writing the bulk of the album's material (Shotton delivers two tracks on his own and Tommy co-writes on a few) – and delivering a stellar production of world class standard.<br /> I was initially surprised at the pace of the album overall – it's a very ballad heavy selection of songs and quite mellow over what I expected. But the more I listened, the more the class of the songs took over and pace/style wasn't an issue.<br /> In fact, looking back, quite a few of my favourite albums over the years have been very mellow and I'm now adding this one to the list. When the mood calls for it, some glossy, traditional AOR with perfect vocals and a laid back vibe is just what is called for.<br /> Think <b>Dare</b> <font color="#80ffff">Out Of The Silence</font>, <b>Von Groove</b> <font color="#80ffff">Test Of Faith</font>, <b>Magnum</b> <font color="#80ffff">Sleepwalking</font> – all very fine, albeit laid back, classy records.<br /> <br /> What <b>LRS</b> deliver is a group of songs that everyone reading this is going to feel familiar with. There's the anthemic <b>Journey</b> styled feel good tracks such as the opening <font color="#ffff00">Our Love To Stay</font> (which is equal to the tracks that opened the last two Journey albums), <font color="#ffff00">Never Surrender</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For Love</font>; then there are the slow wistful polished AOR of <font color="#ffff00">I Can Take You There, Almost Over You</font> and the super smooth and ultra-classy <font color="#ffff00">Universal Cry</font>; there is a couple of more upbeat and progressive AOR numbers in the brilliant <font color="#ffff00">Livin' 4 A Dream</font> and the heavier <font color="#ffff00">Down To The Core</font>.<br /> Rounding out the record is the massive power ballads <font color="#ffff00">To Be Your Man</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Not One Way To Give</font>.<br /> All throughout we get dramatic backing vocals, plenty of guitar fills and some tasteful solo and always those brilliant <b>La Verdi</b> vocals.</font><br />   <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 would class <font color="#00ffff">Down To The Core</font> as a very safe album and one that very much stays true to the traditional definition of the genre it represents. But it is also one of the better examples of such, so I have no trouble embracing this. Yes, it could have been a little more adventurous, but what it delivers is super slick, super classy AOR and those vocals are just perfect! </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>Asia</b> <font color="#ffffff">Gravitas</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/asia-gravitas.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> Geoff Downes & John Wetton</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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>Asia</b> delivers another new album in pretty quick time following their acclaimed <font color="#00ffff">XXX</font> album in 2012. Gone is guitarist <b>Steve Howe</b> and in his place is young gun <b>Sam Coulson</b>.<br /> The band has stuck to its mantra of slick, polished AOR, staying true to their original early 80s style.<br /> Unfortunately the band seems to have slipped back into the slow to mid-tempo slumber that has been an issue in recent albums. The brief sojourn into a more uptempo realm on <font color="#00ffff">XXX</font> is once again abandoned in favor of a moped in first gear here.<br /> The production of course is super smooth and multi-layered, but the songs….dull I'm afraid.<br /> Kicking off with what is possible the most annoying chorus in at least a decade, <font color="#ffff00">Valkyrie</font> has a nice laid back verse reminiscent of the band's debut album, but that chorus makes you want to stick cacti in your ear.<br /> Then comes 8 minute title track, where there's no sign of life until near the 3 minute mark. Followed of course by an ultra-slow ballad, a painfully slow song followed by the mid-tempo quirk of <font color="#ffff00">Nyctophobia</font> which is kind of annoying also.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Russian Dolls</font> is then another slow song before <font color="#ffff00">Heaven Help Me Now</font> finally hits second gear.<br /> That's followed by the album's best track – the slightly anthemic (in a mellow way) <font color="#ffff00">I Would Die For You</font>.<br /> That's followed by the horribly slow and dull <font color="#ffff00">Joe Di Maggio's Glove</font> and the slightly more dramatic <font color="#ffff00">Till We Meet Again</font> to close the album.</font><br />   <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 really painfully slow album to get through. I spoke of the occasional joys of a nice mellow album, but in this case, the songs are simply frightfully dull and lacking any enthusiasm by those performing them. The production and style of the album is as close to classic 80s <b>Asia</b> as you could imagine, but it's wasted on some tepid pacing and dull songs. </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>Gotthard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bang!</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">G 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/gotthard-bang.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> Gotthard</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Gotthard</b> overcame the tragic death of charismatic frontman <b>Steve Lee</b> by taking a couple of years off and recruiting Aussie import <b>Nic Maeder</b> as their new singer. Nic's job was an unenvious one, but he's handled it will class and style.<br /> The band was at the top of their game when Steve died and their comeback album <font color="#00ffff">Firebirth</font> carried massive expectations. It was however was pretty average to these ears and only featured a few really strong tunes. Some disagreed of course and loved the rawer, under produced style, but the overall fan reaction was tepid. The songs just weren't there.<br /> <br /> <font color="#00ffff">Bang!</font> is a much better Gotthard album in all respects. The production is much better – crisper and smoother and more commercial than <font color="#00ffff">Firebirth</font>. This is a more traditional sounding Gotthard album and picks up where Steve Lee left off. The band could still use a little help on the choruses – but the songs here are far stronger than the last album – even if there are still maybe 2 or 3 fillers.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bang!</font> is a strong rocker to open the album. Initially I thought the chorus was simply daft, but as simple (and silly) as it is, it's catchy and has grown on me quite nicely over the weeks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Get Up 'n' Move</font> picks up the tempo even further. It's a frantic, organ drenched rocker with a hard edge riff and a thumping beat. I like it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Feel What I Feel</font> is another cracking Gotthard tune – an instant classic I think – with a memorable, commercial friendly, feel good chorus that you just can't help but sing along to.<br /> I guess it is time for a ballad and <font color="#ffff00">C'est La Vie</font> is just that. An acoustic driven piece, with a nice pleasant feel about it and a soft, raspy vocal from Nic. It has a very “French provincial” feel. It is a bit of a pace killer though, I might have waited another track or two to drop this in.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Jump the Gun</font> is a groove heavy hard rocker with a darker tone. The chorus isn't a stand out, but the groove is what drives the track – that and the heavy guitar and strong vocals. Some nice organ in there too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Spread Your Wings</font> has a classic <b>Deep Purple</b> 70s rock vibe to it. Drenched in organ, the song has a definite style of its own, but it's a filler to these ears.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Won't Look Down</font> is another 70s influenced track, this time it has a <b>Led Zeppelin</b> feel to it. Sadly another filler as far as I'm concerned. It simply doesn't go anywhere.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Belief</font> is a much better track. A moody track again, but a more free flowing song and one that carries with it the feel of classic Gotthard. And while the chorus isn't massive, it does stand on its own, mainly due to the comforting familiarity in the style.<br /> Time to break the tempo a little and the next ballad <font color="#ffff00">Maybe</font> is a duet with unknown American Melody Tibbits, who has a very pleasant voice. Good song, if not a little strange to hear a female lead on a Gotthard record!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Red On a Sleeve</font> is a fierce, hard rocking song with maximum impact. The tough exterior and a good fit for this part of the album, but not the best chorus ever.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What You</font> is less intense as its predecessor, but rocks just as hard. I like this track a lot. Good chorus too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mr. Ticket Man</font> is another uptempo rocker with an ok chorus and some prominent organ. A decent album track, but not a highlight.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Thank You</font> is perhaps the most 'out of skin' Gotthard tune ever. This epic track runs 11 minutes in length and combines a full orchestral intro before launching into a heartfelt piano ballad that builds in intensity with the orchestral backing come back into it. The song continue on to a powerful guitar drive climax with orchestra in full flight. Marvelous stuff!</font><br />   <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">Bang!</font> is another album that suffers from being too long for its own good – especially with added bonus tracks in some editions, but it's a big step back in the right direction for the band and an album that carries the classic <b>Gotthard</b> sound more closely than <font color="#00ffff">Firebirth</font>. This puts my interest in the band fully back into focus after losing it following the last album.<br /> A classic is now expected next time lads! </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>Pretty Maids</b> <font color="#ffffff">Louder Than Ever</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/prettymaids-louderthanever.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> 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> 52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Danish melodic metallers <b>Pretty Maids</b> seem to be on a pretty good run in recent years. I have enjoyed their last few albums that have come via Frontiers and this is no exception. This is not a completely new album but consists of seven re-recorded classic songs from the 1995 - 2006 era plus four brand new songs specially written for this record. There are some minor tweaks to those old songs, not to mention all of them taking advantage of a better production quality and technology.<br /> This is yet another barnstorming, high energy, melodic metal release that blows the speakers apart. The four new songs are indication that all continues to go well within the band as they continue to age with maturity without ever looking like getting soft.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Deranged</font> is a hard edge moody rocker with a great guitar sound and raspy powerful vocal and chorus that steps up the pace another notch or two.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Soul To Take</font> is one of the band's most melodic tracks ever – a brilliant little feel-good melodic rock anthem.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nuclear Boomerang</font> on the other hand, is one of the band's heaviest – a double kick drum driven hard rocker with a menacing edge.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Heart Without A Home</font> is another cracking melodic rock tune – a beautiful ballad with one of <b>Ronnie Atkins'</b> best vocals to date.</font><br />   <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>Pretty Maids</b> fans will need no convincing – but those still unfamiliar with the band would do well to check this out – it's an excellent quality album, with terrific songs and a high energy burst of European melodic hard 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>Vanden Plas</b> <font color="#ffffff">Chronicles Of The Immortals Part 1</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers</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/vandenplas-chronicles1.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> Vanden Plas & Markus Teske</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">This is one heavy album. Heavy concept, heavy lyrical content and heavy instrumentation. 10 tracks, 55 minutes and it's only Part 1 of 2. This progressive metal concept album is an adaption of a theatrical show the band put on, which itself was an adaption of a series of books by author <b>Wolfgang Hohlbein</b>. This is heavy going folks – not for the feint hearted by any means!<br /> Of course it is extremely well done – but it requires a concerted effort on the art of the listener to get to know it. For that reason alone, it's more likely this is going to appeal to the band's already substantial fan base.<br /> <b>Dream Theater</b> fans are going to appreciate the effort involved in writing and executing such a complex piece of music and there's enough here for all fans of progressive metal to appreciate.<br /> Songs range from 1:40 to as long as 8 minutes plus. It's hard to pinpoint individual highlights of an album which is essentially one passage of music spanning nearly an hour.<br /> Vocalist <b>Andy Kuntz</b> is a very likable singer and guitarist <b>Stephan Lill</b> is simply amazing. The production is, as expected, a million dollar sound.<br /> A massive rhythm section, swirling keyboards and an incredibly powerful set of songs define this progressive work of art.</font><br />   <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"> Progressive fans should rush to this. Pink and fluffy warriors should not! </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>Skin Trade</b> <font color="#ffffff">Refueled</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/skintrade-refueled.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> Oscar Ammer</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">Sweden's classic hard rockers <b>Skin Trade</b> are back for the first time since a Best Of release in 2012 and their first new studio album since 1995. Fronted by one of my favourite Swedish vocalists <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b>, Skin Trade present an album that is both contemporary and classic in it's make up. The album mixes classic rock thinking with an updated and more contemporary sound, which could make fans of more traditional sounding hard rock question whether this release is for them.<br /> The opening two tracks would suggest not – <font color="#ffff00">Monster</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Liar</font> emply that modern sound but are still energetic, enjoyable slices of Scandi melodic hard rock with standout choruses. Elsewhere might take a few more listens. This is not a simple, chorus driven record, nor is it one that carries obvious melodies.<br /> Matti has a habit of singing in a more contemporary, darker style than he did on his original melodic rock solo album <font color="#00ffff">Ready</font>. I prefer his melodic style by a wide margin. The use of vocal effects throughout this album is another issue.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Pay In Blood</font> for example, is mixed with all the production effects of a modern metal song and the verse doesn't offer much in the way of melody, but the chorus is quite appealing once you get to know it. <font color="#ffff00">Close My Eyes</font> a mellower song with the same inner workings.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hardcore MF Heartattack</font> is a brash, in your face modern metal song with a very direct point; <font color="#ffff00">Worse Than Wasted</font> is a fast moving, effects filled rocker with a chorus that blasts through the speakers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dying In Your Arms</font> is another album highlight and matches the power and style of the opening two tracks, which I favor.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Look Me In The Eye</font> is a powerful, grooving, riff filled rocker to finish.</font><br />   <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 are a few real highlights on here that I'll come back to over the course of the year ahead. But there are also many I won't come back to. A really strong production is a positive and the album has a very free flowing, fast moving pace throughout. It's a hard rocking, hard hitting contemporary melodic metal release, but it misses the mark with some songs not having the hooks to pull you in. That contemporary production and down tuned guitar style and the lack of any obvious choruses after the first few tracks makes for a tougher listen than I anticipated. </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>Magnum</b> <font color="#ffffff">Escape From The Shadow Garden</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/magnum-escapefromtheshadowgarden250.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> Tony Clarkin</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> March 19-24</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" /></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.magnumonline.co.uk" target="new">Magnum</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</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">For the second time in a row I find myself rearranging a <b>Magnum</b> album to enhance my enjoyment of it, but that aspect cannot alter the fact that there are some delicious classic Magnum songs on offer here.<br /> Sound and style borrow from the last couple of outings and also from the likes of <font color="#00ffff">Rock Art</font> and even some <font color="#00ffff">Storyteller's Night</font>. It's a long and complex album with a lot of different approaches within the songs. Moody, hard rocking, epic…melodic too of course.<br /> <b>Bob Catley</b> sounds a little rougher around the edges these days, but there is still something very special about the way he sings and the delivery of the always impressive lyrics of <b>Tony Carkin</b>.<br /> The rhythm section of <b>Al Barrow</b> and <b>Harry James</b> provide an important foundation throughout the album, giving it the necessary power boost.<br /> <br /> <b>Track by Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Live 'Til You Die</font> is a storming riff heavy opening track with a swathe of keyboards underneath and Bob Catley's usual powerful voice taking command. In many ways the song is a statement of the sound the band has carried since reforming – the hard edge guitar of Clarkin taking prominence and the chorus hook being the secondary thought. But it works – due to the song's own strength, a theme which carries through the whole album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Unwritten Sacrifice</font> is a nod to the older Magnum sounds, where keyboards took center stage. Unfortunately I wouldn't have placed it here after the faster moving opening track. The chorus is there, but it isn't an obvious one, which is typical of the reborn Magnum. It's still wonderfully moody and powerful track, I think it would have been better later in the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Falling For The Big Plan</font> rolls along with equal power and the same subdued chorus structure of the opening tracks. The changing pace within the song makes for interesting listening. At 6 minutes in length there are a few different aspects to the track and it takes several listens to learn them all.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Crying In The Rain</font> is another slow starter, making the front portion of the album a little sluggish. The song itself is a slow hard rocker with a good, yet simple chorus, led by a Clarkin's guitar riffing and a stop-start thumping drum beat which is attention grabbing from the get go. Great song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Too Many Clowns</font> is a fast riffing, fast moving groover, which to me sounds like it could have come right off the <font color="#00ffff">Rock Art</font> album. The bridge-chorus arrangement works well, with the chorus itself the most immediate from the first half of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Angel</font> is simply brilliant. This to me is old school melodic Magnum with a heartfelt vocal and a thumping beat that drives the song through to the very commercial chorus. I would have placed this higher up the chain. And it runs 7 minutes no less!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Art Of Compromise</font> is another commercial rocker with an uptempo beat, some harmony vocals and a feel good chorus. <b>Mark Stanway's</b> piano also shines through on this track, giving it a familiar classic Magnum feel. Another highlight for me. The endless cymbal crashing is a bit distracting though.<br /> The ballad <font color="#ffff00">Don't Fall Asleep</font> runs about 6 minutes and features a really special Bob Catley vocal and a more pompish chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wisdom's Had Its Day</font> is a similarly paced track, but features a more intense orchestral sound and a dark brooding chorus. Another one that isn't very obvious, but grows upon getting to know it more.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burning River</font> is a pretty straight forward Magnum rocker really. Again, the chorus isn't huge like the old days, but it's there.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Valley Of Tears</font> is one of the best songs from this band in recent memory. What a beautiful orchestral ballad with an amazing Catley vocal. The verse is as melodic as the chorus and the sentiment impossible not to get caught up in. This is classic Magnum through and through. The perfect closing track.</font><br />   <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 winner without doubt and probably once again, their best since reforming. The band keeps lifting their own bar each release and this album is no different. The most consistent and engaging record from their second stage career.<br /> Now, for my alternate track sequence – this one was really hard – <font color="#ffff00">01) Live 'Til You Die 02) Too Many Clowns 03) Midnight Angel 04) Crying In The Rain 05) Don't Fall Asleep 06) Unwritten Sacrifice 07) Falling For The Big Plan 08) The Art Of Compromise 09) Wisdom's Had Its Day 10) Burning River 11) The Valley Of Tears</font> </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>W.E.T.</b> <font color="#ffffff">One Live - In Stockholm</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/wet-oneliveinstockholm.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> W.E.T.</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> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>98%</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">How can you tell that a band has unbelievable talent, charisma and ability? When a band such as <b>W.E.T.</b> perform their only their second ever live show together and yet, sound as good as this. How on hell is it possible to sound THIS good, this tight, this polished after just one other show? When you are <b>Jeff Scott Soto, Erik Martensson, Robert Sall, Magnus Henriksson</b> and <b>Robban Back</b>. That's how.<br /> What's even more impressive is that the band were at the time playing on the back of their debut album and previewing songs to the audience from their yet to be released second album. Yet, the crowd laps it up as it's delivered with a powerhouse performance.<br /> For the rest of the folks hearing this album, you've had the luxury of living with the band's second album for several months now, so there isn't a song here that can't be sung along to and cranked loud.<br /> Add in a few gems such as the classic <b>Talisman</b> tracks <font color="#ffff00">Mysterious</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be Waiting</font>; <b>Work Of Art's</b> wonderful <font color="#ffff00">The Great Fall</font>; and <b>Eclipse's</b> hard rocking masterpiece <font color="#ffff00">Bleed And Scream</font> and the heartfelt ballads <font color="#ffff00">Comes Down Like Rain</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Love Heals</font> alongside the band's own perfect anthems <font color="#ffff00">Walk Away, Rise Up, Brothers In Arms, Still Unbroken</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Invincible</font> and you might just have one of the best live albums in recent memory.<br /> Did I mention the soaring feel good AOR of <font color="#ffff00">If I Fall</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be There</font>?<br /> How about the additional two extra studio tracks that didn't make the last album? Both those tracks were deemed to be tipping the balance of the last album too heavy, so here they are now. And yes, both are heavy rockers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Poison</font> is a fast moving hard rocker with a kicking drum beat and a slew of guitars.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bigger Than Both Of Us</font> has an epic feel to it – it's slow, but it's heavy and the chorus is another winner for the band. </font><br />   <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"> Essential for all – this is how it's done – both in the songwriting department and the performance. Electric atmosphere and a stunning set of songs make this an incredible live set. </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>House Of Lords</b> <font color="#ffffff">Precious Metal</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/houseoflords-preciousmetal.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> James Christian</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">The latest album from <b>House Of Lords</b> is their 5th since the <font color="#00ffff">World Upside Down</font> release, which saw singer James Christian enlist a new lineup to take the band name forward after the ill-fated <font color="#00ffff">Power & The Myth</font> release. The 8 year run with this lineup has been quite prolific, especially considering some bands have barely managed 1 or 2 albums in that time frame. Each of the 5 albums have had their fans and their detractors as the band treads a fairly consistent path musically, with songwriting the only real changeable factor each album.<br /> <br /> For <font color="#00ffff">Precious Metal</font>, things have changed more than the past 4 albums. In comes a heavier and more direct approach, with the pomp/anthemic qualities the band is best known for somewhat left behind. I'm completely stumped by promotional claims the band returns to its roots here, as really, they never left behind their sound (apart from The Myth release) and this album is probably the furthest away from their core sound. Confusing indeed.<br /> I've seen some outstanding reviews for this album around and it seems to be getting a mostly positive response from fans.<br /> I've had the album 3 or more months now and initially struggled to get into it - more than any other album before it. I guess the emphasis on just rocking out in a heavier fashion instead of delivering the usual style of song structure I expect from the guys is the reason behind that.<br /> But that's not to say I'm not enjoying the album – I am. And it does indeed rock and I know fans will love it. But it is a different beast to the band that delivered <font color="#00ffff">World Upside Down</font> or <font color="#00ffff">Come To My Kingdom</font>.<br /> If there is a weakness within for me it is the choruses – a couple don't work and a couple of others are a bit annoying. I don't like <font color="#ffff00">Raw</font> at all and <font color="#ffff00">Turn Back The Tide</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I'm Breaking Free</font> haven't warmed on me either.<br /> Other than those points, the album fits into a pretty hard rocking path, led by the always shred-tastic <b>Jimi Bell</b> and backed by the powerhouse rhythm section of <b>McCarvill</b> and <b>Zampa</b>.<br /> The album rocks with a pace not previously seen from <b>House Of Lords</b>, so if its tempo you crave then <b>Jimi Bell</b> is all over this album and drummer <b>BJ Zampa</b> is given a platform to deliver his most energetic performance yet. It's a shame the drum sound is so thin compared to that of the bass guitar.<br /> Where the album works best for me is on such tracks as the opening pomp/metal blast of <font color="#ffff00">Battle, Action</font>, the frantic <font color="#ffff00">Epic</font> and the beautiful ballad <font color="#ffff00">Precious Metal</font>.<br /> The darker <font color="#ffff00">Permission To Die</font> and the rollicking <font color="#ffff00">Swimming With The Sharks</font> are also solid.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Turn Back The Night</font> has a good hook and <font color="#ffff00">You Might Just Save My Life</font> ends the album in the same way it started – with a bang.</font><br />   <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"> Louder, heavier and more in your face – it's a less pompous and more direct <b>House Of Lords</b> here. Definitely their highest octane release to date, but perhaps missing a little of the glorious pomp finesse that their past has delivered. Love to hear some more keyboards into the mix of whatever comes next for the guys. </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>Within Temptation</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hydra</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/withintemptation-hydra.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> Daniel Gibson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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.withintemptation.com" target="new">Within Temptation</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">I adore this band's sound and style. And the vocals of <b>Sharon den Adel</b> are to die for. Following up on their breakthrough critically acclaimed and fan appreciated epic <font color="#00ffff">The Unforgiving</font> was going to be no mean feat, especially for a band that has evolved from release to release.<br /> I don't think this is quite as strong as that last album – it really was wonderful – but the band has managed to capture the energy of that release and some of the commercial feel employed there, and still managed to move it forward a little here.<br /> Much has been said of the many collaborations used on <font color="#00ffff">Hydra</font>. But for the most part they are relegated to the background and don't impact he individual songs too much.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let Us Burn</font> carries all the power and musical intensity of <b>Within Temptation's</b> sound that fans could hope for. An infinitely powerful and soaring opening track that gets the album off to a perfect start.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dangerous</font> ups the ante even more with a furious pace. Growler <b>Howard Jones</b> (from Killswitch Engage) guests on vocals without too much distraction.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">And We Run</font> is perhaps the most controversial collaboration, with rapper <b>Xzibit</b> doing his bit mid-song, but I can get past that due to the high quality of the song itself and the powerful musical backing. I love the chorus and lead vocals here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Paradise (What About Us?)</font>(featuring Tarja) is quite possibly the symphonic metal song of the year. Just perfect in every way. I can listen to this over and over again. The production power is immense and lead riff is simply brain altering.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Edge Of The World</font> is another wonderful track. Taking a step back to give the listener a break, the symphonic, orchestral ballad is a beautiful track with an epic chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Silver Moonlight</font> features some growling backing vocals, but actually fit the intense nature of the song – it's another barnstorming metal track with soaring vocals. Love it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Covered By Roses</font> features another stunning vocal performance and another memorable set of hooks.<br /> The heavy and intense darker <font color="#ffff00">Dog Days</font> is another pace changer. Another strong track if not a highlight.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tell Me Why</font> is fast, furious and everything that makes this band great.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Whole World Is Watching</font> (featuring <b>Dave Pirner</b> of Soul Asylum) is a reflective, yet power metal ballad to close the album in style.</font><br />   <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"> Essential of course! Power (melodic) metal fans and those that love symphonic hard rock won't find better than this. Maybe not quite as marvelous as <font color="#00ffff">The Unforgiving</font>, but still a compelling album from a band at the top of their game. </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>Heart</b> <font color="#ffffff">Fanatic 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> </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/heart-fanaticlive-cd.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> Ray Volkema</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 67</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">I'm no fan of the <font color="#00ffff">Fanatic</font> album or any of Heart's recent output despite being a pretty passionate fan of the band since 1985. So the idea of “Fanatic Live” really didn't interest me in the least, save to hear the might <b>Ann Wilson</b> belt out a few of my favourite Heart classic mid-set.<br /> So the 14 track set features half a dozen tracks form the last album and a few deep cut classics that are featured on all Heart concerts (and accompanying CD/DVDs) – <font color="#ffff00">Barracuda, Crazy On You, Dog & Butterfly</font>.<br /> The gals manage to squeeze in a few 80s mega-hits, almost begrudgingly, but it's a joy to these ears to hear the still wonderful Ann & Nancy sing and perform <font color="#ffff00">What About Love, These Dreams</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Alone</font>.<br /> I will give them this – the <font color="#00ffff">Fanatic</font> tracks do rock and in a live setting they do carry a little more life than on the studio recordings.<br /> However, overall, it's just not a set list that interests me personally although the band kicks ass and the recording is very clear and well captured.</font><br />   <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 the die-hards and those that loved <font color="#00ffff">Fanatic</font> (I know there are plenty). </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>Axel Rudi Pell</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into The Storm</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/axelrudipell-intothestorm.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> 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> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">I can sum up the very latest <b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> album in three words: Axel. Rudi. Pell.<br /> Ok, so I had better expand on that a little. You all know the format by now. You also know the style by now. The sound and the performance quality also! It's Axel Rudi Pell!<br /> The only variable that needs reviewing in an ARP release is song quality. And I'm pleased to say that this album is packed with high quality melodic hard rock tunes that <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> sings with his usual gusto.<br /> Once we get the obligatory mood-inducing intro out of the way, <font color="#ffff00">Tower Of Lies</font> is a storming opener as per usual and <font color="#ffff00">Long Way To Go</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Burning Chains</font> sees Gioeli at full stretch and Axel's Deep Purple nuances in full blown riffing glory.<br /> The epic 6 minute ballad <font color="#ffff00">When Truth Hurts</font> is brilliant and the 7 minute slow burning <font color="#ffff00">Touching Heaven</font> features also impresses.<br /> The <b>Neil Young</b> cover of <font color="#ffff00">Hey Hey My My</font> is really well done in Axel/Johnny's unique moody delivery and the closing 10 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">Into The Storm</font> is just perfect.</font><br />   <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"> No surprises as per usual, but if there ever was, that would be akin to the first sign of the apocalypse surely? It doesn't take a lot of words to sum up a ARP release, but safe to say that this one is a very quality release. We have 2 veteran performers that know exactly what's required and execute that plan perfectly. A massive sounding record that will please ARP fans no end. </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>Fate</b> <font color="#ffffff">If Not For The Devil</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/fate-ifnotforthedevil.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> Fate & Jacob Hansen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">This review is long overdue, but if you have not yet heard the new <b>Fate</b> album, give it a chance. It's their most melodic friendly release in some time. It gets off to a pretty hard rocking start with the double time <font color="#ffff00">Reaping</font> and the also powerful title track <font color="#ffff00">If Not For The Devil</font>.<br /> The first sign of a more melodic Fate comes with the fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Bridges Are Burning</font> that surprises with a very commercial chorus. <font color="#ffff00">Feel Like Making Love</font> sees the very easy to listen to vocals of <b>Dagfinn Joensen</b> adding melody over the guitar driven track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gambler</font> is an old fashioned, keyboard filled 80s rock anthem which leads into another 80s friendly tune in the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Hard To Say Goodbye</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Made Of Stone</font> and the faster paced <font color="#ffff00">Man Against The Wall</font> are both cool European styled melodic hard rock tracks with strong choruses.<br /> The balance of keyboard and guitar, coupled with a catchy chorus make <font color="#ffff00">My World</font> another highlight while <font color="#ffff00">Gimmie All Your Love</font> is arguably the most commercial track of the whole album, closing with another touch of 80s rock (and synth) for good measure.</font><br />   <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 consistent and enjoyable European melodic hard rock record. Well worthy of the Fate name. </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>Linda & The Punch</b> <font color="#ffffff">Obsession</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/lindaandthepunch-obsession.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 Voss</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> March 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">Modern meets melodic with this newcomer debut from <b>Linda & The Punch</b>. The young female lead uses her charm and energy to deliver some catchy moments on this album, produced by veteran <b>Michael Voss</b>, who has been mentoring the singer for several years.<br /> This is a pretty consistent debut, with the catchiest tracks stacked towards the front and the deeper cuts closing the album. All in all, it's bit of good fun.<br /> The modern punk infused hard rock stomper What A Shame opens the album with a touch of latter day Rick Springfield about it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Cold Cold World</font> not only features an outstanding vocal, but also a great chorus hook and some tasty riffing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Welcome To London</font> features a slightly left of center verse, but another knockout chorus.<br /> Elsewhere on the album, <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Of anything</font> is a fine modern rocker; <font color="#ffff00">Bite</font> fails to sink its teeth into a decent melody; <font color="#ffff00">Kill The Lights</font> gets hard and heavy and <font color="#ffff00">Love Kills Me</font> features the best chorus on the latter half of the album; <font color="#ffff00">Looking Out For Number One</font> is a catchy pop/rocker.<br /> Closing up is a sonically intense and heavy cover of the <b>Springsteen</b> written/Patti Smith sung <font color="#ffff00">Because The Night</font>. Interesting take on the track.</font><br />   <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"> Diverse, contemporary and well produced. Ultimately it's a very likable and fresh sounding album with a bit of spunk. </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>Berggren Kerslake Band (BKB)</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Sun Has Gone Hazy</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/bkb-thesunhasgonehazy.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> BKB</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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> Classic 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.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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">The welcome return of Swedish vocalist <b>Stefan Berggren</b> on the wonderful <b>Revolution Road</b> album is bookended with his appearance here with classic rock drummer <b>Lee Kerslake</b>.<br /> Kerslake's years in <b>Uriah Heep</b> are carried through to this old school 70s rock release, which to be honest, it's made infinitely better with Berggren there on vocals.<br /> Without him, this release would have been far less appealing.<br /> As it is – it struggles in places anyway, not least with an extremely muddy, bass heavy production sound that fails the songs featured.<br /> Track highlights include the groove filled opening rocker <font color="#ffff00">Walk Tall</font>; the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">My My</font>; the very classy and most melodic-chorus friendly song of the album <font color="#ffff00">Free</font>; the soulful and blues drenched <font color="#ffff00">As Time Goes By</font>; and the acoustic based closer <font color="#ffff00">Born Again</font>, featuring another very good vocal.</font><br />   <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 are looking for <b>Snakes In Paradise</b> style melodic rock or commercial AOR, then check out <b>Revolution Road</b>. If classic rock in the vein of <b>Uriah Heep, Deep Purple</b> and <b>Led Zeppelin</b> are more appealing, then check this out, but be ready for that muddy sound and several plodding tracks. </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>Johnny Lima</b> <font color="#ffffff">My Revolution</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/johnnylima-myrevolution.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> Johnny Lima</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.johnnylima.com" target="new">Johnny Lima</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">The always reliable and dependable <b>Johnny Lima</b> returns with a fan funded release that is currently available in limited numbers from Johnny's website and some retailers. The 15 track album is chock full of classic Lima driven melodic rock – hands in the air anthemic hard rock, mixed with a few high quality sentimental ballads for good measure.<br /> As usual Johnny mixes the best of classic 80s melodic rock with a slightly more contemporary sound, but perhaps not quite as modern as some tracks Johnny has delivered in the past.<br /> This, I think, is going to be the definitive Lima release folks.<br /> <br /> Its sometimes good fun, feel good hard rock (<font color="#ffff00">You're The Drug I Wanna Get High On</font>); at other times, the biting lyrical content (<font color="#ffff00">Happily Ever After You, Tell Me Lies</font>) and then the ballads take you to another place altogether. <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Love You Any More</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Maybe You're Right, Maybe It's Wrong</font> are wonderful.<br /> When you are talking moody melodic rock anthems, <font color="#ffff00">Blame It On Love, Deeper Into You, Naturally Beautiful</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Into The Light</font> take the prize.<br /> Johnny even delivers one of the sleaziest tunes of all time in <font color="#ffff00">Fill You Up</font>. Eat your heart out Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley!<br /> Production is first rate – balanced and easy to crank loud.</font><br />   <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"> At 15 tracks and 57 minutes, it might feel as if the album was a couple of tracks too long, but not here. No fillers in sight and awesome energy here! Fans will want to get the limited edition before they run 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>Daryl Braithwaite</b> <font color="#ffffff">Forever The Tourist</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sony Australia</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/darylbraithwaite-foreverthetourist.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> 30</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.darylbraithwaite.com.au" target="new">Daryl Braithwaite</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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">Another long short player here or short long player… Aussie pop/rocker <b>Daryl Braithwaite</b> had recorded this long play EP (that's how it is being marketed here in Oz) that seems him step back into the melodic rock game for the first time in a while.<br /> This is Daryl doing his classic melodic rock style, modernized in the same way the likes of <b>Brian Howe</b> and <b>Rick Springfield</b> have done in recent years.<br /> Quite simply – this 8 track release is the best thing I have heard from Braithwaite since the early 90s. The utterly fabulous commercial radio anthems <font color="#ffff00">Not Too Late, Is This Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Forever The Tourist</font> are some of his best songs ever. The modern feel doesn't betray his pop/rock roots.<br /> The only stinker is the horrible reggae track <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Day</font>. Otherwise it's perfect for Braithwaite 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>EZ Livin</b> <font color="#ffffff">Firestorm</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">LZ 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/ezlivin-firestorm.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> 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> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.facebook.com/EZ.Livin.Official" target="new">EZ Livin</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>68%</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>David Reece</b> is one hell of a singer, and as expected he's in pretty fine voice again here. Always good to hear him sing straight ahead hard rock with a melodic edge. But on this occasion, the material in question isn't going to further his career all that far. <b>EZ Livin'</b> “return” after more than two decades away.<br /> Founding member <b>Hans Ziller</b> (guitarist of <b>Bonfire</b>) has gathered a new crop of musicians to carry the name, but rather than a fresh all-new album the group instead manage to cover three tracks from the 1991 debut album and include 2 covers – Uriah Heep's <font color="#ffff00">Easy Livin</font> and a truly horrible version of the great <b>Bangalore Choir</b> track <font color="#ffff00">Loaded Gun</font>. This version sounds almost cabaret compared to the hard rocking original, which holds a special place in my heart.<br /> That leaves just 3 new tracks out of the albums 9 songs (<font color="#ffff00">Let's Fly Away</font> appears twice!)<br /> The production is average too – and it just doesn't seem like a genuine attempt at a new start. More like a promo piece to get the ball rolling.<br /> I hope they record a genuine full length album next time and make up for this extended-EP of sorts. </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">A Life To Die For</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/royalhunt-alifetodiefor.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> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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 Symphonic 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">This is a wonderful hard rock record and among my favourite of all <b>Royal Hunt</b> releases. I just wish there were more than 7 songs. Yes, the length of the songs makes the album's playtime as long as a normal 10-11 track release, but with 7 songs there are only 7 original ideas to get your head around. And when the quality is as it is here, the listener is left wishing for more.<br /> Upon my first listen to this album I found 1 song that jumped out immediately. On my second run through it was two, and third….well, you get the idea.<br /> The musical depth of the album is such that it takes some listening, but each of the 7 tunes here has their own life and personality and each has its own beauty.<br /> The production on this album is fantastic, and the performances every bit as good as the caliber expected of these seasoned musicians.<br /> A special mention has to go to vocalist <b>DC Cooper</b>, whose efforts on this album are nothing short of brilliant. Powerful, emotive, melodic and in command at all times, Cooper drives the songs on this album to the next level.<br /> The near 10 minute <font color="#ffff00">Hell Comes Down From Heaven</font> is a divine epic opener, with the all the power and swirling keyboards expected.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">One Minute Left To Live</font> has to be one of the best melodic metal songs you'll hear this year…what a chorus!<br /> On <font color="#ffff00">Sign Of Yesterday</font> Cooper takes on a <i>Phantom of The Opera</i> persona to deliver one of the vocals of 2013.<br /> And the closing <font color="#ffff00">A Life To Die For</font> simply flies by, even though it clocks in over 8 minutes in length. My favourite of the album.</font><br />   <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 may be a couple of months old now, but don't let this title slip by…invest in this fabulous slice of melodic metal as a matter of urgency! Great performances, massive production and plenty to draw the listener back in over and over. </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>Overland</b> <font color="#ffffff">Epic</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/overland-epic.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> 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> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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>Steve Overland</b> and <b>Mike Slamer</b>. There's not much more I can add really! Either name conjures up unnatural levels of excitement from AOR anoraks, but join them together and it's a virtual pleasure overload. Epic is just that - essential AOR for most readers of this site.<br /> Add in the additional personnel of <b>Christian Wolff</b> – guitars; the <b>Unruly Child</b> rhythm section (<b>Larry Antonino</b> – bass and <b>Jay Schellen</b> – drums) and how could they go wrong?<br /> Well, they couldn't and they don't.<br /> With the two Billy's on backing vocals (<b>Greer</b> and <b>Trudel</b>), you can bank on this album featuring all the same wall of sound elements that make all <b>Mike Slamer</b> productions essential.<br /> Mike joins in himself with additional guitars, bass, keyboards.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Radio Radio</font> might be a pretty simplistic (but very catchy) way to start the album, but I challenge anyone to find a better pure AOR song than the double dose of classics in <font color="#ffff00">If Looks Could Kill</font> and the glorious <font color="#ffff00">Stranded</font>. Wonderful! And layers upon layers of vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rags To Riches</font> is almost <b>Seventh Key</b> toughness and is one song I could perhaps live without – the chorus isn't doing it for me; while <font color="#ffff00">Liberate My Heart</font> is pure <b>FM</b> bliss.<br /> The uptempo anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Down Comes The Night</font> is both moody and uplifting at the same time.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">If Your Heart's Not In It</font> has some cool drum work and a varying beat; <font color="#ffff00">Rock Me</font> is a groover and <font color="#ffff00">So This Is Love</font> is straight out of the 80s with harmonies everywhere.<br /> Wild is high-tech 80s AOR and <font color="#ffff00">The End Of The Road</font> is another class song, a mid-tempo song that builds via a moody and twisting arrangement and great chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Time For Letting Go</font> is for whatever reason – not included on the promo version of the album.</font><br />   <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, the guys live up to any possible hype and deliver a great album of pure AOR that showcases the best of all involved and shows there is still much to offer is the world of classic old school AOR. You'll need to be a member of the <b>Steve Overland</b> vocal fanclub of course – his tone isn't for everyone, but you can't argue with the man's talent or the superbly produced record before us.<br /> <b>Seventh Key</b> meets <b>FM</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>Revolution Road</b> <font color="#ffffff">Revolution Road</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/revolutionroad.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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> Bluesy 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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">AoA</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">He hasn't been seen for years, and suddenly <b>Snakes In Paradise</b> lead vocalist <b>Stefan Berggren</b> appears twice in two months. The best of his two new releases is easily <b>Revolution Road</b>.<br /> The project is the brain child of Avenue Of Allies owner Gregor Klee and man of the moment <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b>, who co-writers, produces and performs on this album.<br /> <b>Revolution Road</b> is everything I loved about Sweden's <b>Snakes In Paradise</b> – the strong melodic vocals and moody edge, and twists it into a more bluesy hard rock direction, with an emphasis on sounding fresh while still paying homage to the 70s and 80s.<br /> It took a few listens for several of the songs to grow on me, while others were more instant. But the outcome was the same in the end – quality melodic rock with a fresh twist.<br /> And for Snakes In Paradise fans, there are two new songs from the band's founders Berggren and guitarist <b>Thomas Jakobsson</b> included!<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wings Of Love</font> is the perfect opening track – uptempo, uplifting and glorious vocals and chorus. The uptempo, but warm and moody <font color="#ffff00">Shooting Star</font> might be even better and is the most <b>Snakes In Paradise</b> sounding track of the album (the first of the two Berggren/Jakobsson co-writes). Stefan's vocals here really warm the heart. I just love his tone.<br /> The title track is the listener's first taste of the bluesier side of the album, with a slower, darker and heavier style that just oozes class.<br /> Whether it be on the more traditional style melodic rock tracks like <font color="#ffff00">Hold On</font>; the gloriously sweet AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Pretending Hearts</font> (the other Berggren/Jakobsson co-write) or mid-album run of heavier, blues soaked 70s rockers like <font color="#ffff00">Ain't Gonna Give My Heart Away, Love's Got A Hold On Me, Losing You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Take Your Love To Town</font> and the organ drenched <font color="#ffff00">Balloon</font>; one thing is for certain – this is a classy release with a knockout vocal performance.<br /> An musically speaking, full credit to main writer <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> for stepping outside the usual circle of musical influence to deliver a really special album.</font><br />   <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 has been around a few months now, but I can't recommend strongly enough for folks to check this out. Simply awesome bluesy melodic rock with a commercial twist on a few anthemic AOR songs, but overall, a simply sublime vocal performance from Stefan and something truly different to listen to amongst the regular tones of normal AOR releases. </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>Lover Under Cover</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into TheNight</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/loverundercover-intothenight.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> 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> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">The second <b>LUC</b> album follows the successful debut of yet another Swedish melodic rock project. You can never have too many right? Well, not when they are as good as this at least.<br /> The band features <b>Last Autumn's Dream</b> vocalist <b>Mikael Erlandsson, Martin Kronlund</b> on guitars and (very a very solid, hard hitting) production, <b>ColdSpell</b> drummer <b>Perra Johnsson</b> – who delivers a smashing sound here; and <b>Mikael Carlsson</b> on bass, adding to the solid rhythm section.<br /> Stepping things up another notch from the debut, this second album sees the guys deliver a familiar slice of Scandi melodic/hard rock, with all the trademark hooks and elements from that part of the world we love.<br /> Erlandsson's raspy vocals are a thing of beauty and the performance here coupled with the songs makes this album now stand above that of recent <b>Last Autumn's Dream</b> output.<br /> There are no fillers in sight, but to highlight a few tracks, I particularly like the tough talking opener <font color="#ffff00">A Fight</font> and the rolling melody of <font color="#ffff00">Into The Shadows; Toy Solider</font> is an interesting choice of song to cover, but the <b>Martika</b> 80s hit is reworked nicely here with a raspy moodiness perfect for it.<br /> The uptempo ballad <font color="#ffff00">Life Is Easy</font> is a breezy interlude before fast moving rockers <font color="#ffff00">Playboy No 7</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Game Is On</font>, with a hammering beat driving both songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Closer To The Truth</font> is a classic Scandi 80s style melodic rocker with a fine verse and chorus, making it an album favorite.<br /> The breezy quality ballad <font color="#ffff00">No Place Like Home</font> closes the album.</font><br />   <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"> Like Scandi melodic rock? Enjoy <b>Last Autumn's Dream</b>? Sweet AOR with a punch? All pay attention to this album then, you can't go wrong. </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>AOR</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Secrets Of LA</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/aor-secretsofla.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> Slama/Denander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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"><font color="#00ffff">Secrets Of LA</font> is amazingly <b>AOR's</b> 12th album and basically sees main man <b>Frederic Slama</b> repeat the formula of the previous albums. Secrets features the highest profile guest stars to date with the likes of <b>Fergie Frederiksen, Jeff Scott Soto, Jim Jidhed</b> and <b>Bill & Tamara Champlin</b> all involved.<br /> It's a fairly consistent album and the songs themselves are good quality throughout.<br /> But the programmed aspect of the base sound is simply out of date in 2014 and that and overall production style takes away from the (mostly) excellent vocal performances and the songs themselves.<br /> Slama teams again with guitarist/producer <b>Tommy Denander</b> and a whole slew of guest vocalists, mirroring Denander's own <b>Radioactive</b> series. As with Radioactive, the guitar and production sound here is very much the Denander stock and trade guitar driven/programmed feel which is the album's weakness. The tinny and repetitive cymbal and drum programming and all too familiar guitar tone is something I personally don't need to ever hear again.<br /> <br /> But Slama seems to have got the best out most of the vocalists appearing, which is a plus.<br /> Lead track <font color="#ffff00">Deep Whirlpool</font> is sung with gusto from the now late, great <b>Fergie Frederiksen</b>. Good song and great, but a little too much programming going on.<br /> The tougher, heavier approach of the <b>JSS</b> sung <font color="#ffff00">Stage Struck</font> is good - always good to hear a new JSS vocal, but again, programmed drums takes away a little.<br /> My favourite track of the album is the absolutely blinding AOR of the Journeyesque <font color="#ffff00">Secrets In The Shadows</font>, with <b>Alien</b> frontman <b>Jim Jidhed</b> on vocals. Again, it's programmed to the hilt, but the song's vocal is just too amazing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Back To San Francisco</font> features <b>Bill Champlin</b> in a raspy uptempo vibe.<br /> Unfortunately the normally ultra-reliable <b>Bob Harris</b> (Axe, Ede Of Forever) turns in a couple of really off vocals for <font color="#ffff00">Out Of The Past</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Main Attraction</font>. I'm not sure what went wrong here, but the vocals really are a struggle to get through.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Name Of The Game</font> is a pretty easy listen with the wonderful <b>Robin Beck</b> in full control.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Web Of Lies</font> is a <b>Göran Edman</b> sung recut of another <b>Chasing Violets</b> song. Prefer this version as Goran is unbeatable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hollow Triumph</font> is a pleasant AOR number sung by Last Autumn Dream / Lover Under Cover singer <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Voices In The Wind</font> is a laid back Westcoast number that features <b>Tamara Champlin</b> and some nice guitar work.</font><br />   <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 entertaining uptempo AOR here and something to enjoy for fans of the assigned vocalists. A few stand out tracks, but as discussed, the over-programmed nature of the record and repetitive sound that comes from the <b>Tommy Denander</b> production sable is something that takes away from the positives. </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>Dogface</b> <font color="#ffffff">Back On The Streets</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/dogface-backonthestreets.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> 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> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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="#ff8000" height="195"> <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">Way too long between drinks for <b>Dogface</b>, who deliver their third album after an 11 year wait! I've been bugging band founder <b>Martin Kronlund</b> for at least half that time to do another album, so here it finally is – with huge expectations from myself. The debut is a classic!<br /> While it's great to have the guys back and hear that Mats Levin snarl at full volume, the album doesn't quite match the brilliance of the first two, or make up for an 11 year wait. That's mainly due to a couple of obvious fillers and a strange choice of track sequencing.<br /> In my mind the band opens with a true plodder of a song in <font color="#ffff00">Footsteps On The Moon</font> – a decent song, but by no means should it ever have opened the album.<br /> Much better and in classic form is the rollicking <font color="#ffff00">Can't Face Tomorrow</font>. This is classic <b>Dogface</b>!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> is just as good too – Levin just owns the song with his dominating vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Fall</font> is another quality song with a pretty good chorus and some nice Hammond, but the slow pace of the track along with the slow opener and mid-tempo previous track give the album a sluggish feel.<br /> The double time rocker <font color="#ffff00">Back On The Streets</font> fixes that momentarily, before a return to the mid-tempo moody fare of <font color="#ffff00">Fired</font>. Good chorus and lead vocal again here though.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Get Up</font> is another mid-tempo track, but features a catchy chorus and some strong harmonies.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Start A Fire</font> continues a good run of tracks with a song that fires up and delivers more classic hard rock for <b>Dogface</b> fans.<br /> The 2 minute blitz of <font color="#ffff00">Crazy Horses</font> isn't as memorable however and the closing song <font color="#ffff00">Freaking Out</font> is perhaps the worst <b>Dogface</b> tune ever. The psychedelic rocker just doesn't work for me.</font><br />   <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"> Out of the album's 10 tracks, I can live without 2 and maybe even 3 of the songs and the sequencing does the guys no favors. But woven in around the album is some of those glorious hard rock moments that I was hoping to hear. There's nothing better than <b>Mats Levin</b> in full rock mode and <b>Martin Kronlund</b> knows how to make a great sounding record. So those two reasons I still recommend this solid hard rocking opus, but it could have been even better. </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>Primal Fear</b> <font color="#ffffff">Delivering 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> </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/primalfear-deliveringtheblack.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> Mat Sinner</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2014</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 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">THIS is how it's done folks. This is quite simply – a stunning piece of European melodic metal, with power, finesse, melody, structure and ear splitting production quality that rivals anything on the metal market right now.<br /> The bass thumps, the drums pound, the guitars riff and shred and the vocals – while ear piercingly loud – hold both strength and melody. <b>Ralf Scheepers</b> is the man as far as I'm concerned.<br /> <b>Magnus Karlsson</b> again proves he knows the genre better than anyone with some pounding and brutal riffing.<br /> The <b>Mat Sinner</b> production and <b>Jacob Hanson</b> mix gives the album a perfect balance that makes it easy on the ears, despite the all-in approach of the songs.<br /> From the frantic opening thrashing of <font color="#ffff00">King For A Day</font>, to the groove heavy <font color="#ffff00">When Death Comes Knocking</font>, to the old school metal of <font color="#ffff00">Alive & On Fire</font>; to the double kick drum rollicking <font color="#ffff00">Delivering The Black</font>; this album has it all for metal fans.<br /> Also of particular brilliance is the moodier <font color="#ffff00">One Night In December</font>, which is one of my favourite cuts.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Born With A Broken Heart</font> is about as close to a ballad as this band might get, the chorus another stand out.</font><br />   <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"> Fifty minutes of pure melodic metal quality. Perfectly produced and perfectly executed by 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>Ring Of Fire</b> <font color="#ffffff">Battle Of Leningrad</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">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/ringoffire-battleofleningrad.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> Ring Of Fire</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> 2014</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> NeoClassical 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">Something has gone wrong here. The band is musically on song, delivering their third album of neo-classical shred metal, with the typically powerful soaring vocals of <b>Mark Boals</b> wailing throughout.<br /> But the production is as thin as a steamrolled bandicoot. There's simply no guts to this recording. The guitars are way back in the mix and the drums – performed thisa time by session man <b>Jami Huovinen</b>, who mimics <b>Virgil Donati's</b> styl so well, I actually thought it was him – are so hollow it just doesn't make sense how it wasn't corrected.<br /> Take a listen to the guitar riff at 3.50 mark in the opening track. It sounds like it was recorded with string to a tin can.<br /> I like the first two records and there's nothing musically wrong with this new album either. Mark sings great, Virgil plays his ass off and <b>Tony MacAlpine</b> shreds without remorse.</font><br />   <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"> Whoever recorded this needs to deliver a refund. <b>Timo Tolkki</b> mixed it, so that's certainly an expectation not met. Take a listen to the sonics of the <b>Primal Fear</b> album. That's how a metal album should sound. </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>Angelica</b> <font color="#ffffff">Thrive</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/angelica-thrive.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> 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> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Another week, another Swede! Yes, <b>Angelica</b> is the front woman of those moody modern melodic rockers <b>The Murder Of my Sweet</b> and this is her solo “melodic rock” record.<br /> Backed by most of her regular band including drummer/producer/keyboardist <b>Daniel Flores</b>; with the exception of guitarist <b>Per Bergquist</b>, the album swing along nicely, delivering an hour's worth of mainly uptempo European melodic rock tunes.<br /> <b>Angelica</b> has a fine voice for both the melodic direction of this album and the modern edge of Murder Of My Sweet.<br /> The songs are from various writers, including Angelica being responsible for writing or co-writing at least half the album. Other writers include <b>Harry Hess, Robert Sall, Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> and <b>Mattius Reimer</b>.<br /> Style wise – very much as expected – traditional commercial melodic rock/AOR with that Swedish slant. All very nice and very easy to listen to.<br /> Perhaps not the musical depth that it could have, or quite enough to make it stand out of the pack as a must have release.<br /> But songs like the instantly catchy <font color="#ffff00">Breaking My Heart</font>; the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Can't Stop Love</font>; the moodier <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Else You Can Break</font> and memorable <font color="#ffff00">Rain On My Parade</font> all make this album one that should be sought out by fans of female fronted melodic rock and of course anyone that already has either of the Murder Of my Sweet releases.</font><br />   <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"> Very good, if not a little safe. If you know <b>Daniel Flores'</b> strong production style, you can pick the sound here. Some good songs help too. </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>REO Speedwagon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At Moondance</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/reospeedwagon-moondance-cd.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> REO Speedwagon</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">To be honest, I didn't realize just how whiney REO frontman <b>Kevin Cronin</b> is in concert. I like Reo – it's hard not to, but this particular live recording is something I find more than a little annoying – vocally speaking.<br /> The remaining elements are all fine of course. The band is on top of their game after being on the road continuously now for 134 years and the recording quality of the performance is good.<br /> Sometimes there just isn't a lot that can be said about a particular release!<br /> The band churn out most of the <font color="#0000ff">Hi-Infidelity</font> record here, along with a few other album cuts and hits, for a 13 song release and accompanying DVD. This set is really is aimed at the core fanbase only.</font><br />   <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 must for most committed REO fans I would say, but not of any great groundbreaking substance to warrant anyone else being interested in it. </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>Benedictum</b> <font color="#ffffff">Obey</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/benedictum-obey.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> John Herrera</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> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</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">As much as I have tried, I just cannot stomach <b>Benedictum's</b> vocalist <b>Veronica Freeman</b>. Musically the band is pure American metal and is ok.<br /> If the band has appealed previously, then check this out. The production is loud, in your face and evenly balanced.<br /> But I hate the vocals. And if I can't get into vocals, I struggle with the album no matter what the quality of the production. I hated the last album too. I love me some power female vocals – but this is just screaming and it's doing my ears serious damage by the time I reach track 5. I'll stick with Within Temptation, Nightwish or Halestorm.</font><br />   <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 nothing I can find here to recommend to usual readers of MR. </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>Red Dragon Cartel</b> <font color="#ffffff">Red Dragon Cartel</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/reddragoncartel.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> Ron Mancuso & Jake E Lee</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> 2014</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 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">A lot has been said about this release already, so I'll try and sum that up briefly with my own opinion. Looking at the main players here, the album should have been a home run. What's not to love about the legendary <b>Jake E Lee</b> returning after years in the wilderness, teaming up with the great <b>Ron Mancuso</b> (Beggars & Thieves) who is a superb writer and producer in his own right and brought B&T back recently with an album that mixed old and new extremely well. The perfect fit surely?<br /> Maybe so, but I was disappointed from listen 1. My first issue is with the direction of this album. It is a lot more contemporary than anticipated and borders on alternative metal in places.<br /> Multiple production effects (on both guitars and vocals), grungy tuned down guitars, strained vocals...it's a long long way from the sweet tone of the awesome <b>Badlands</b> records and Jake's classic work with <b>Ozzy Osbourne</b>.<br /> Then there is the vocalist issue. The main man here is the also normally awesome <b>Darren Smith</b> of <b>Harem Scarem</b>, leaving the drum kit behind here to take on frontman duties for the live band and half the album's tracks.<br /> Sticking with the sound direction of the material, Darren proceeds to scream his way through his selection of songs and no matter how hard I try, I just can't warm to the style – both vocally and musically.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Deceived</font> is about as palatable as it gets. I can't even get past the chorus in <font color="#ffff00">Shout It Out</font>.<br /> Elsewhere on the album, the use of guest vocalists creates an unbalanced approach that doesn't allow the listener to settle in. Only <b>Robin Zander</b> impresses on the modern raunch of <font color="#ffff00">Feeder</font> – it's the heaviest track I've ever heard Zander sing; but <b>Paul Di'Anno</b> sounds horrible on <font color="#ffff00">Wasted</font> and <b>Maria Brink</b> not much better on <font color="#ffff00">Big Mouth</font>.<br /> <b>Sass Jordon</b> guests on <font color="#ffff00">Redeem Me</font>, but even here, her vocals don't carry the usual warmth expected.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">War Machine</font> is Jake's tribute to his time with Ozzy, the very noticeable riff and style straight out of <font color="#00ffff">The Ultimate Sin</font>.</font><br />   <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 all honesty, I'll probably never listen to this again – and that's a huge disappointment after all these years and considering the personal involved. I was anticipating this from announcement time, but it doesn't offer me anything I'm musically interested in. I'll go back to the debut <b>Badlands</b> album which I've played consistently since flogging it to death upon its original release. </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>Boston</b> <font color="#ffffff">Life, Love & Hope</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">FRCD630 </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/boston-lifelovehope.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Scholz</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.bostonband.com" target="new">Boston</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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">You know there's a problem when it takes 11 years to prove that the last album wasn't as bad as you remember, at least not compared to the latest offering.<br /> The time has come to stop calling <b>Tom Scholz</b> a genius. The debut <b>Boston</b> album was genius. But that was when <b>Boston</b> was a band. It has been a case of diminishing returns ever since and 6 albums in 37 years is really quite a pathetic work rate.<br /> Scholz is his own worst enemy. It seems he takes advice from no one, works almost entirely on his own and doesn't listen to any other artists, has a habit of rehashing songs despite decades between projects and even though he performs live with a kick ass band, doesn't utilize any of their abilities when it comes to recording.<br /> The whole <b>Boston</b> conundrum just gives me a headache thinking about it. What a good A&R guy could do if Scholz was ever ready to listen.<br /> <br /> <b>Boston</b> the band morphed into the <b>Tom Scholz</b> machine shortly after the second album and by the time <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font> finally arrived in 2002, Boston was all but a one man band. Sadly that problem has only intensified on <font color="#00ffff">Life, Love & Hope</font>.<br /> To step back a bit – the machines were beginning to take over the band during the <font color="#00ffff">Walk On</font> recording years and what little momentum the name Boston had was again lost in taking another 8 years to deliver <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font>.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font> featured a few killer songs (<font color="#ffff00">I Had A Good Time, Stare Out Your Window, You Gave Up On Love, Didn't Mean To Fall In Love</font>), but some appalling ones too (<font color="#ffff00">With You, Cryin', Turn It Off</font> – yes please!).<br /> What frustrates the hell out of me as a fan (I am) is the repeated mistakes. The at times annoying drum sound on CA is only magnified on L, L & H – this time becoming the only drums used. That's right – nothing but Scholz delivered drum programming and tinny sounding cymbals here.<br /> And without doubt, the absolutely biggest WTF moment Boston's long history was <b>Kimberly Dahme's</b> country song <font color="#ffff00">With You</font> being included on <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font> – and in such a prominent position.<br /> So does <b>Tom Scholz</b> learn from that? No…instead Kimberly is back for an increased presence on the new album, but at least no country tune. But Boston for me is never going to include a female lead vocal.<br /> Fans were also not happy that CA took 8 years and produced only 9 new tracks, as <font color="#ffff00">Living' For You</font> was brought back for a second run. Why? There's simply no need. If you can't get a song right in 6 years, then move on!<br /> <br /> When Scholz was complaining again over the lack of impact CA had back when released in 2002 (label's fault of course!), he was talking about reworking a few of that album's tracks and adding a few new songs for a second take on that album. That was about 8 years back.<br /> I heard nothing of that since, so when the years rolled by without any new product, it seemed safe to assume Tom had come to his senses, realized fans just didn't like the album overall and dropped the stupid idea to concentrate on just writing the best all-new <b>Boston</b> album possible.<br /> When the announcement came that the new album was actually finished and was to be released in 2013, I was quietly hopeful that the material would warrant the longest gap between Boston albums yet – 11 years.<br /> So I was absolutely shocked and totally disappointed to hear that not 1 or 2, but 3 of CA's tracks were still going to be reprised on <font color="#00ffff">Life, Love & Hope</font>.<br /> And one of those isn't even rerecorded! <font color="#ffff00">Didn't Mean To Fall In Love</font> is a simple cut and paste from <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font>. I just don't get that! At. All.<br /> Same fans, same audience, same people buying the albums. No need to repeat yourself. Am I being too cynical to think that this track is included just to be able to have the late, great <b>Brad Delp</b> included more in the credits?<br /> The other two rehashed tracks are <font color="#ffff00">Someone</font> and <font color="#ffff00">You Gave Up On Love</font>, which in all honesty, have not been improved upon in the 11 years since their original release.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Someone</font> of course features the great Delp on lead vocals and hasn't been tampered with apart from the awful drum programming. Again, I think this is a wonderful song, but its presence here seems merely filling the Delp quota.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You Gave Up On Love (2.0)</font> now features <b>Kimberley Dahme</b> in a prominent lead vocal role (why????) and lead vocals also from <b>Tommy Decarlo</b> and <b>Tom Scholz</b>.<br /> <br /> That leaves us with the result of 11 years of work - 8 new songs.<br /> So let's talk <font color="#00ffff">Life, Love & Hope</font>.<br /> The Scholz one man band approach has resulted in a couple of things.<br /> First – the lack of a real drummer is beyond comprehension. The programmed beats are beyond annoying and repetitive without any of the soul of feel that a human being brings to the process.<br /> Secondly – the mix is awful. That's the most unforgivable aspect of the album – 11 years in the making and it features the worst production of any <b>Boston</b> album.<br /> Third – the overall tempo of the album is very laid back. Every Boston album has been that little bit mellower than the last and this is no exception.<br /> Lastly – the song sequencing is ridiculous.<br /> The album starts in almost identical fashion to <font color="#00ffff">Corporate America</font> – a nice uptempo AOR anthem. <b>David Victor</b> does a nice lead vocal and is then criminally discarded for the remainder of the album. Vocalist <b>Louis St. August</b> (Mass) appears for a brief vocal line – he could have been used more also.<br /> But to cut and paste <font color="#ffff00">Didn't Mean To Fall In Love</font> as the second track is just silly. But then it gets truly ludicrous as Sholz figures after one new track and one old track, fans would love nothing more than to hear him deliver an attention seeking instrumental. No sir, that is not the case.<br /> The one new track to feature a new <b>Brad Delp</b> lead vocal is <font color="#ffff00">Sail On</font>, a dramatic mid-tempo track with an ok chorus, but an odd sounding Delp vocal to be honest. <b>Kimberley Dahme</b> again appears on lead vocals in and around the track, which is a little off-putting and the track just kind of comes to a stop without warning. Odd.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Life, Love, & Hope</font> is a pretty decent tune featuring <b>Tommy Decarlo</b> on lead vocals. He is obviously in the band to cover <b>Brad Delp's</b> songs and on record, he also sounds close to the master vocalist. This is a free moving, uptempo melodic rocker with a decent chorus, but the drums are hideous.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">If You Were in Love</font> has potential. Unfortunately I just don't like <b>Kimberley Dahme</b> as a lead vocalist on this material and the verse is forgettable. The chorus is much stronger and had it been sung by <b>David Victor</b>, I think it could have been a pretty good AOR track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Someday</font> is another <b>Tommy Decarlo</b> sung tune, but with some additional vocals from Scholz and Dahme again on lead vocals in the bridge. I wish that wasn't the case. Otherwise it's an ok uptempo melodic rocker. Not a bad track, but really nothing we haven't heard many times before with Boston.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love Got Away</font> is Schulz on every instrumental and programming as usual and now lead vocals too. Yep, Tom Scholz has decided he can also sing now. Next Boston album will have him on all vocals no doubt – more elimination of needless band personnel.<br /> At least he's a touch better than Eddie Van Halen singing. I don't like the track at all.<br /> The final new track closes the album. <font color="#ffff00">The Way You Look Tonight</font> is a slow to mid-tempo AOR number with the attempted lush Boston layering, but the mix is just awkward.<br /> <b>Tommy Decarlo</b> sings again with the wasted <b>David Victor</b> on harmonies. This song and the opening number are probably the best two tracks on the album.</font><br />   <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"> 11 years, another new record label, more new vocalists, less band members than ever and just 29 minutes of newly written material. On top of that, the worst drum sound of any major artist release in recent memory, the worst production of any <b>Boston</b> album yet and just 3 or 4 songs that I think can stand on their own as worthy of the <b>Boston</b> name.<br /> Oh, and the CD artwork is dreadful too. I doubt there will be another Boston album. Not if it's going to take until 2024 to release.<br /> Some will be thankful for that. I, on the other hand, see the history of Boston as the greatest example of wasted time and lost opportunities in rock n roll history…so much potential and so many great songs over the years. But there could have been so any more. </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> Boston<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Look Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Third Stage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="boston-corporateamerica.p3">Corporate America</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life, Love & Hope</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 Decarlo, David Victor, Brad Delp, Kimberly Dahme:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tom Scholz:</b> Guitars, Drums, Bass, 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>Tom Scholz</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 on Earth <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Didn't Mean To Fall In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Day Of School<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sail Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life, Love & Hope <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If You Were In Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Got Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someone (2.0)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Gave Up On Love (2.0)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way You Look Tonight <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>Place Vendome</b> <font color="#ffffff">Thunder In The Distance</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">FRCD624 </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/placevendome-thunderinthedistance.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> 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> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <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">The debut <b>Place Vendome</b> album was quite superb. It also featured two of the best power-AOR anthems of recent years (<font color="#ffff00">I Will Be Waiting, Too Late</font>) and a couple of killer hard rock tracks.<br /> The band's second album <font color="#00ffff">Streets Of Fire</font> didn't have the anthemic highs of the debut, but it was probably a more consistent album start to finish.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Thunder In The Distance</font>, the project's third album, sees the formula of the first two adhered to, but is missing the spark of the debut and the overall consistency of the sequel.<br /> This appears to be a more laid back album overall. It's not as heavy and I'm not hearing the passion in vocalist <b>Michael Kiske's</b> voice either.<br /> That's not to say it isn't a good album. It is, and all seems to flow along very nicely, but at the same time, the material doesn't grab the listener by the throat.<br /> I've been playing the album continually over the last two weeks in hope something jumps out at me. What we do have here is a very pleasant and well produced album (thanks to <b>Dennis Ward</b>) and a group of solid songs (largely from the pen of <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b>) that do the job and will appeal to those that perhaps sampled <b>Place Vendome</b> earlier and found the material too 'in your face'.<br /> There are still some highlights here worthy of the <b>Place Vendome</b> name – the opener <font color="#ffff00">Talk To Me</font> is one of the few outwardly uptempo tracks; <font color="#ffff00">Power Of Music</font> has a good chorus hook; the <b>Timo Tolkki</b> written rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Lost In Paradise</font> has a certain intensity and the feel good <font color="#ffff00">It Can't Rain Forever</font> is another strong, mellower tune.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heaven's Lost</font> is a dramatic song and the <b>Magnus Karlsson</b> ballad <font color="#ffff00">Break Out</font> is solid.<br /> The title track closing the album is good too – probably wasted at the end of the album.</font><br />   <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 I enjoyed the album overall, there's something just not quite right about the whole album. Whether it be the song selection, the overall mellower tempo or Kiske just not adding enough passion and his constant need to add vibrato to everything he sings. I hadn't noticed that as much on the past albums but it gets a bit annoying here. </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>Stryper</b> <font color="#ffffff">No More Hell To Pay</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">FRCD622 </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/stryper-nomorehelltopay.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 Sweet</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> 2013</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">Some bands spend their entire careers trying to emulate past glories. Others just get better with age and look towards the next phase of ass kicking.<br /> Thankfully <b>Stryper</b> is in the latter category and their new album <font color="#00ffff">No More Hell To Pay</font> sees them as fresh and invigorated as ever.<br /> The self-produced set is chock full of high energy tracks that are completely dominated by big riffs and big vocals.<br /> I really like <b>Michael Sweet's</b> voice. He's got a great tone for this style of music and can he still hit those high notes or what?<br /> I don't think there is going to be a <b>Styper</b> fan alive that doesn't get into this album.<br /> As for those not into the band or think they are just a religious outfit – there is so much more here on offer than just some preachy lyrics. For the record – the band keeps a lid of that aspect anyway.<br /> Two minor points – I'm not sure the sequencing of the album is perfect and I think the drum sound is a little off at times. Cymbals are too noisy and the drums a little thin.<br /> I was surprised to see another cover tune on here after the band just released an all-covers affair, but their rocked up version of <font color="#ffff00">Jesus Is Just Alright</font> is absolutely blinding with some serious guitar soloing towards the end.<br /> The big ballad <font color="#ffff00">The One</font> is something pretty special also – the chorus vocals are inspiring.<br /> Other highlights are the opening slow hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Revelation</font> – even if it perhaps shouldn't have opened the album; the speeding <font color="#ffff00">Saved By Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Legacy</font>; <font color="#ffff00">Sticks & Stones</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Water Into Wine</font> just flat out rock and the title track is just cool.</font><br />   <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>Stryper</b> nail it again. The second phase of their long career is well underway and the band doesn't seem to take a wrong step. This is another quality hard rock release from Christian rock's head of the class. </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>Def Leppard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Viva! Hysteria</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">FRCD620 </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/defleppard-vivahysteria-cd.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> Domenic J Cotter, John Rubey</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> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">After my unfortunate (and still unresolved) public spat with frontman <b>Joe Elliott</b>, I've only listened to <b>Def Leppard</b> for review purposes. And that's pretty sad considering they were my favourite band for the best part of 15 years and <font color="#00ffff">Hysteria</font> my favourite album of all time.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Viva! Hysteria</font> however, has given me reason to smile. It's been so long since I played the original Hysteria album; it was nice to come back to the songs that were part of my life for so long.<br /> And I really love what the band has done here with them. While sticking to the original blueprint almost entirely, the guys still managed to capture that energy a live show brings.<br /> And what's probably best of all is the band listening to fans about their set list, after several years of the same old sets, rolling out some real gems on the band's <b>Dead Flatbird</b> first act set, such as <font color="#ffff00">Stagefright, Rock Brigade</font>, the awesome <font color="#ffff00">Slang, Promises, Mirror Mirror</font>….great stuff.<br /> Then there's the main act for the performance of <font color="#00ffff">Hysteria</font> in full. It just reminds me how good these songs are – and just how good it is to hear the deep cuts like <font color="#ffff00">Gods Of War, Don't Shoot Shotgun, Excitable</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Run Riot</font> live. They go over a treat and I hope the guys continue to play more of these on the next tour.<br /> Overall the live recording is terrific and the mix nice and clear. <b>Joe Elliott</b> sounds about as good as he has in any recent years and the band is as tight as could be imagined.</font><br />   <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 really good package for die-hard fans that leaves no stone unturned. A welcomed trip down memory lane. </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>Adriangale</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sucker Punch!</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/adriangale-suckerpunch.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> Vic Rivera & John Kivel</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> USA</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">Way too long between new music for the much loved <b>Adrianagle</b> – returning to their original name and label home (Kivel Records) after a brief excursion outside for an EP under the name <b>Crunch</b>.<br /> Guitarist/writer/producer <b>Vic Rivera</b> has teamed again with vocalist <b>Jamie Rowe</b> for the band's fourth studio album and first since 2004's <font color="#00ffff">Crunch</font>.<br /> Thankfully the guys pick up exactly where they left off, with this album continuing the big fat production sound of <font color="#00ffff">Crunch</font>, while updating just enough to keep things fresh and modern, but still classic <b>Adriangale</b> all the way.<br /> The album features 11 new songs (1 is instrumental, the classy <font color="#ffff00">Temporis Intermisso</font>), mixing glorious anthemic melodic rock with AOR choruses with some grittier harder edge numbers that rank amongst the bands heaviest tunes to date.<br /> I think a lot of effort has gone into the composition of these tracks, both in terms of songs writing and as far as production, with extra effects and layers going on throughout the album.<br /> On the heavier side – <font color="#ffff00">Sucker Punch</font> is a perfect opener, which sets up the quality of the album; while <font color="#ffff00">All About The Money</font> is perhaps the most aggressive track the band have put down; <font color="#ffff00">Give Me A Sign</font> features a hard edge vocal and a thumping rhythm section.<br /> On the more melodic and anthemic side of the coin, you just won't do better than <font color="#ffff00">The Black And The Blue</font>. Massive chorus, awesome harmonies, killer song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When I Said You'd Be The One</font> is a lot of fun with another great chorus, but <font color="#ffff00">Believe</font> is even better, with harmonies used beautifully.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What Will You Do</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The World We Knew</font> are two more great melodic rock tracks that just strengthen this album's grip on my ears.<br /> If you aren't convinced by now, then maybe <font color="#ffff00">Could Have Been Me</font> will do it. Great stuff.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You</font> is the album's sole slower track and is a nice change of pace from the otherwise rousing tempo. The heartfelt piano lead ballad features a great vocal from Jamie.</font><br />   <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 – great! Another worthy addition to the <b>Adriangale</b> catalogue and another example of what fine musicians <b>Vic Rivera</b> and <b>Jamie Rowe</b> are. Of course credit must also go to <b>Eddie Campbell</b> and <b>Matt Mahoney</b> for rounding out the performances on <font color="#00ffff">Sucker Punch</font>. American melodic hard rock at its best. </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>Maxx Explosion</b> <font color="#ffffff">Forever</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/maxxexplosion.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> Chris McCarvill & BJ Zampa</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> USA</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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>Maxx Explosion</b> is Chris, Jimi and BJ from <b>House Of Lords</b>, with bassist <b>Chris Carvill</b> on lead vocals. So yes, there is a definite <b>House Of Lords</b> vibe here, but also a lot more.<br /> This is an album of uptempo, highly energetic rockers. Great songs, great vocals, great performances…but production? That's another story unfortunately.<br /> I can accept that the band has a certain 'live in the studio' vision here and the energy is undeniable. And the songs give a lot to be enthusiastic about.<br /> But it is such a shame that the sound is so muddy and the bass and drums are hardly discernable from one another. Even the vocals aren't as clear as they should be.<br /> At 13 tracks, the album is probably about 2 tracks to long too.<br /> That said, there is a certain genuine likability about these songs and with <b>Chris Carvill's</b> voice - perfect for the style and genre.<br /> The opening fast paced in your face melodic hard rock duo of <font color="#ffff00">Devil's Locomotive</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Falling Away</font> are hard to ignore.<br /> And the more AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Don't Wanna Break</font> is another highlight. <font color="#ffff00">Love Is A Nightmare</font> finds common ground between the frantic openers and the mellower <font color="#ffff00">Cross Your Heart</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Don't Wanna Break</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rise</font> and <font color="#ffff00">End Of The Line</font> thump along with gusto, mixing <b>House Of Lords'</b> heavier side with an almost <b>Dokken</b> goes AOR sound.<br /> Speaking of whom, <b>Don Dokken</b> adds “additional production” here, but that means is anyone's guess. Whatever it is, it isn't worth anything.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Demon Wheel</font> is a short 2 minute instrumental, but is quickly followed by a classy mid-tempo ballad in <font color="#ffff00">Can't Stop Falling In Love</font>. Very House Of Lords here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beat Around The Bush</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Famous</font> turn up the energy as does the double timed rocker <font color="#ffff00">Suicide Door</font>.<br /> The semi-epic <font color="#ffff00">Forever</font> closes the album.</font><br />   <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 opening line of the review says it all – so many things going for this release with one exception. If you can get past that, there's still a lot to enjoy here and should the band correct the production issue for album #2, then they will really be close to unbeatable. </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>Jesse Damon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Temptation In The Garden Of Eve</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/jessedamon-temptationinthegardenofeve.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> Paul Sabu, Jesse Damon</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">The instant I hear this album, I knew it would be my favourite <b>Jesse Damon</b> release to date and it has stayed that way ever since. Damon is helped throughout this album by songwriter/piano maestro <b>Eric Ragno</b> and producer/songwriter/singer <b>Paul Sabu</b>. Jesse's new solo album is so good.<br /> It is beautifully written and produced melodic hard rock in the finest tradition of old-school <b>Sabu</b> and early <b>Silent Rage</b>. At times you'd swear that it was <b>Paul Sabu</b> himself singing. Add in <b>Pete Newdeck</b> on drums and you have a real powerhouse lineup here and the guys deliver.<br /> Swirling keyboards under a base of hard edged shredding guitar and thumping drums with some glorious melodic vocals is just what the doctor ordered.<br /> What's best – the songs here are simply impossibly catchy and stay with you long after the album has finished.<br /> The guys swap in and out from hard rocking to more melodic AOR with ease and back again.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Garden Of Eve</font> rocks hard; while the catchy as hell <font color="#ffff00">Black Widow</font> is bathed in keyboards; the huge ballad with beautiful vocals <font color="#ffff00">Save The World</font> makes the album 3 for 3 in the killer song stakes.<br /> I can't pinpoint why, but I'm not really into the jerky beat of <font color="#ffff00">I Need You Forever</font>, but the fast rocking, hard driving <font color="#ffff00">Save Me</font> makes up for that.<br /> Another classy ballad follows in the form of <font color="#ffff00">A Chance For Us</font>, while the huge <font color="#ffff00">Let It Rock</font> is what should have formed the foundation of the last <b>Silent Rage</b> album.<br /> A third classy power ballad <font color="#ffff00">Angel In The Starlight</font> slows things down before the old-school 80s rock of <font color="#ffff00">Hold On</font> impresses further.<br /> The hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Little Angel</font> continues the catchy memorable line of songs on the album while things come to a close with the mellower acoustic driven ballad <font color="#ffff00">Wishing Well</font>.</font><br />   <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 enjoyable and well written album that is also well produced and well performed. A step back in time without sounding dated, this is a must for all fans of <b>Paul Sabu, Jesse Damon</b> and <b>Silent Rage</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>Ted Nugent</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ultralive Ballisticrock</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">FRCD618 </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/tednugent-ultraballisticrock-cd.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> Ray Volkema, Lucia McCalmont</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> 2013</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">This review really could be summed up in two words: <b>Ted Nugent</b>.<br /> That's it. <b>Ted Nugent</b> is a force of nature, a law unto himself and the head of the family when it comes to the portraying of mad guitar riffing.<br /> He does it his way and he has his own style which has been branded upon the American culture for the rest of time.<br /> So this 2CD/1DVD package is just the ticket for all long time Nugent fans. The 26 track set takes in most of what you'd expect to see and Ted's performance is “electric”.<br /> What I don't like is the live recording of the drums – they sound as if they were piped in from a room underneath the stage.<br /> But how many people buy a Ted Nugent album to listen to the drums? The guitar solos are beyond amazing.</font><br />   <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 2CD/1DVD set is a good value purchase and I can't imagine any Nudge fans being unhappy with this (apart from those drums!) Good to hear <b>Derek St. Holmes</b> back on 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Degreed</b> <font color="#ffffff">We Don't Belong</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR 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/degreed-wedontbelong.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> Erik Lidbom</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 37</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="https://www.facebook.com/degreedmusic" target="new">Degreed</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>98%</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">I love these guys! I think that's pretty well established by now. Their killer debut album was released on <b>MelodicRock Records</b> and I think the Swedish rock band is one of the brightest newcomers in this business.<br /> Their ability to bring classic melodic rock into the new era with a mix of modern production techniques, but still holding onto brilliant musicianship, great songwriting and killer hooks is vital to the survival of this scene.<br /> The debut is one of the best albums in years. And now the sequel <font color="#00ffff">We Don't Belong</font> sees the band grow further and turn the intensity up that little bit more.<br /> The album is driven by an even more modern approach and some stunningly good production values, but on top of that, each and every song represents a new high point for the band. Bigger guitars, better vocals, even more hooks and a truly original sound.<br /> They really have matured into a fine outfit and better defined their unique sound and style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Black Cat</font> is a thumping, intense opening track, but <font color="#ffff00">What If</font> is one of the songs of the year, with its killer chorus and driving beat.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In For The Ride</font> is one of two tracks featuring the writing duo of <b>Bill and Will Champlin</b> and the commercial aspect of their writing is evident. Another amazing chorus here.<br /> The rest of the album is written by the band themselves and if <font color="#ffff00">Follow Her</font> doesn't convince you these guys are geniuses, then nothing will. Pure anthemic melodic bliss.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Inside Of Me</font> is an intense and very likable rock album track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blind Hearted</font> will vie for song of the year with me – just another example of a powerful band with a killer modern sound, yet so accessible. This is brilliant from start to finish and should be all over radio. <b>Harem Scarem</b> fans take note! You'll love this.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Here I Am</font> dials back the intensity briefly. Another wonderful melodic hook and chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Access Denied</font> is a very modern track that shows what a fast driving hard rock song can be in 2013 with classic melody and modern sounds. Awesome again!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Coming Home</font> is a moody and intense song with another good chorus.<br /> The mid-tempo, but heavy <font color="#ffff00">We Don't Belong</font> is simply put – another winner!</font><br />   <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 good thing about not being on my label is that I get to write this (slightly unbiased!) review for the guys. 11 tracks, 37 minutes these guys are the <b>Harem Scarem</b> of Sweden. Modern, driven by killer choruses, no padding, just brilliance.<br /> In an age of pieced together projects and unnatural partnerships, this hard working band deserve to be superstars. </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>Brett Walker</b> <font color="#ffffff">Straight Jacket Vacation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/brettwalker-straightjacketvacation.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> Brett Walker</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">I guess I have to admit to putting off reviewing this release. Since the tragic untimely passing of Brett earlier this year, I haven't played this much. But I owe it to Brett now to finally spin it again to showcase just what a great album it is.<br /> To detail the history behind this album, Brett and I had been working together for the best part of a year working towards doing this release together.<br /> When it was finished, the fact was it cost a lot more to record than Brett anticipated so a larger deal was sought.<br /> Into the picture comes Georg at <b>AOR Heaven</b>, who had the good sense to jump on this album.<br /> I am very close to these songs, having lived with them from the rough demo stage, all the way to competed masters.<br /> It was my pleasure to arrange the songs for the sequence they appear as on this release. I think it flows beautifully (if I dare say myself!)<br /> So it's easy for me to say this is Brett's best album since the classic <font color="#00ffff">Nevertheless</font> album and I think others will agree. I urge any fan of Brett's previous work to get this ASAP.<br /> Brett's voice is just one of those that was made for melodic rock – he glides over the music with incredible ease and with beautiful harmony in each line.<br /> Alongside the brand new tunes are a couple of old favourites. The perfect Midwest AOR anthem <font color="#ffff00">Better Than Goodbye</font> was covered previously by <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b> and <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For Love</font> is of course the <b>Alias</b> #1 hit that Brett wrote with <b>Jeff Paris</b>.<br /> On <font color="#00ffff">Straight Jacket Vacation</font> we have the classic <b>Brett Walker</b> style that <font color="#00ffff">Nevertheless</font> encapsulated with the breezy opener <font color="#ffff00">Reaching For The Stars; I'll Be It Hurts; More Than I</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Unlucky In Love</font>. So good to hear that fresh sound again.<br /> Then we have the other side of Brett – the earthy Midwestern tones best showcased by the hit single in waiting <font color="#ffff00">What About You</font>; the relaxed <font color="#ffff00">Streetlight Burning</font>; and <font color="#ffff00">Good Enough</font>.<br /> And just to throw us off guard, Brett includes a couple of left turns in the fuzz-pop-punk of <font color="#ffff00">I'm Gonna Fly</font> and the lyrical bite of <font color="#ffff00">Someday I'm Gonna Be Famous</font>. </font><br />   <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 is beyond tragic that this will be Brett's final album. I still hate thinking about that, but what an album to be left with. A definite highlight of the year for me and I will be eternally grateful to be involved with Brett as a friend and on this project. </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>Sparklands</b> <font color="#ffffff">Tomocyclus</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/sparklands-tomocyclus.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>Sparklands </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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-allies.com/" target="new">www.avenue-of-allies.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Another new European AOR project – <b>Sparklands</b> is brothers Thomas and Robert Riekerk, together with session players Rolf Perdok (guitars), Rob Vermeulen (bass) and Colin Lee Vermeulen (drums) making up this debut album.<br /> Hailing from the Netherlands, Sparklands don't deliver anything ground breaking new, but they do seem to know their craft and the style they are aiming at – that is, European uptempo AOR, with plenty of keyboards and a splattering of guitar driving these songs.<br /> I can hear hints of <b>Stage Dolls, Houston, Wigelius</b>, maybe current favourites <b>Work Of Art</b> and of course the old favourite – <b>Toto</b>.<br /> You know the style – you'd almost expect them to be Swedish!<br /> Highlights might include the opening two sweet harmony filled AOR tracks <font color="#ffff00">The Game</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Skyline</font>; the very sugary, but ultimately very likable <font color="#ffff00">Afterlife</font>; the moody and relaxed <font color="#ffff00">State Of Mind</font>.</font><br />   <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"> 14 tracks at 55 might be a couple of songs too long, especially as one is an instrumental but generally speaking, this is a very consistent and enjoyable European AOR album. Not quite yet the quality of their peers, but a healthy debut. </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>The Theander Expression</b> <font color="#ffffff">Stange Nostalgia</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/thetheanderexpression-strangenostalgia.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> Andree Theander</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-allies.com/" target="new">www.avenue-of-allies.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Who is <b>The Theander Expression</b>? Swedish guitarist <b>Andree Theander</b> – that's who. And with him on this classy AOR/Westcoast themed album are his friends <b>Göran Edman</b> (Street Talk, Glory, Yngwie Malmsteen) and very promising newcomer <b>Christian Hedgren</b> sharing the lead vocals; <b>Herman Furin</b> (Work Of Art, Fergie Frederiksen) on drums; <b>Linus Abrahamson</b> on bass and <b>Michael Ottosson</b> on keyboards.<br /> The tempo moves around from fairly laid back to uptempo AOR, but always it's all class. So much so I would have signed these guys to MRR. It's just one of those albums that I think sits a little above the shoulders of some others for being that little bit different.<br /> The sound is very familiar – but the skill of the musicians and the way the songs are structured really caught my attention.<br /> The fast moving feel good <font color="#ffff00">Conception of Life</font> is Goran Edman at his <b>Street Talk</b> AOR best while the more mature <font color="#ffff00">Strange Nostalgia</font> (featuring vocalist Hedgren) is equally appealing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Insanity Call</font> is the type of Toto-esque Swedish brilliance that <b>Work Of Art</b> delivers; Edman again shines on <font color="#ffff00">Like A Chameleon</font> and the uptempo <b>Toto</b> styled <font color="#ffff00">Sanguine</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Feelings Of Luxury</font> is a jazzy pop/Westcoast style I sometimes avoid, but Goran delivers a brilliant vocal over a catchy chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mr. Know-It-All</font> is another feel good anthemic AOR gem; while <font color="#ffff00">Masterpiece in the Dark</font> is pure <font color="#00ffff">Seventh One</font> era <b>Toto</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Meet Me There Tonight</font> is another great track – a heartfelt ballad this time and the Goran Edman sung <font color="#ffff00">Champagne Wishes</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Caviar Dreams</font> is another Toto styled pop rocker to close the album out.</font><br />   <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 gem from Sweden and another quality debut album that should immediately put <b>The Theadner Expression</b> on the map. Quality songs, quality performances and quality musicians. Highly recommended for fans of AOR <b>Toto, Work Of Art</b> and the new brigade of Swedish awesomeness. </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>Kick</b> <font color="#ffffff">Memoirs</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/kick-memoirs.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> Mickey Jones</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">To start with, if we are totally honest here, it's not really <b>Kick</b> is it? This is a new <b>Mickey Jones</b> solo project, dressed up under a more commercially viable name.<br /> I don't mean that to sound as harsh as it might – but it is the reality of the deal, with past Kick members absent.<br /> The album features songs that were written and produced by Kick's principle songwriter, Mikey Jones and follows up from his last solo release of several years back.<br /> There is a lot of the Kick sound here and for that I'm grateful. I loved the band and wished they got a bigger break. Their straddling of modern and classic styles has a lot of commercial potential.<br /> And the vibe continues here – but with mixed results. First of all, I definitely miss the fine vocal delivery of <b>Nick Workman</b> (now in Vega). Mickey Jones has the rougher feel of say Robbie from <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> vs Nick being the Johnny Resneck of the band.<br /> And some of these songs are truly off the wall. Stylistically they almost fall into alternative/experimental, and they certainly don't follow your AOR-101 path.<br /> The production is better than expected and the depth in songwriting is certainly something to admire. But are these songs overly likable at the end of the day? That'll have to be up to the individual listener.</font><br />   <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 are some great passages of melody here, but often they are cut short with an odd choice in chorus or a left turn that derails the track. Kick in name, but not in nature. </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>LaValle</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dear Sanity</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/lavalle-dearsanity.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, Paul Logue, Eddie LaValle</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> USA</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">You may not have heard of him before, but you won't forget newcomer guitarist <b>Eddie LaValle</b> now - especially seeing that his album kicks ass and includes the powerhouse lineup of <b>Paul Logue</b> (Eden's Curse) on bass, <b>Carsten Schulz</b> (Evidence One, Domain, Midnite Club) on vocals and <b>Ramy Ali</b> (Evidence One).<br /> Most of the songs are written by Eddie with lyrics by Paul and the style of the album is not far removed from Carsten's other projects <b>Evidence One</b> and <b>Midnite Club</b>, with some <b>Eden's Curse</b> writing and harmony vocal style thrown in.<br /> Now Eddie is an American guitarist partnering with these European guys, so you have to factor some good old fashioned American rock n roll attitude blended into the above.<br /> This is just a very good, very consistent melodic hard rock album with plenty of harmony vocals and plenty of hard edged guitar driven songs.<br /> I must admit to not being huge on the opening track, but the catchy <font color="#ffff00">Scared To Love</font> and the brilliant and intense <font color="#ffff00">Don't Cry</font> well and truly make up for that.<br /> Other highlights include the upbeat rocker <font color="#ffff00">The Lucky Ones</font>; the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Break Your Heart</font> and the <b>Evidence One</b> styled <font color="#ffff00">Cry Of The Wolf</font>.</font><br />   <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 worth checking out for fans of the above artists and fans of honest, no frills melodic hard 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>Reece</b> <font color="#ffffff">Compromise</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/reece-compromise.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> Kelly Peterson, Joey Vera, 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> 43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Star vocalist <b>David Reece</b> returns with his second solo album. It's been a busy few years for the singer, with <b>Bangalore Choir, Reece/Kronlund</b> and <b>Gypsy Rose</b> all part of recent history after a period of relative quiet.<br /> It's great for fans of the singer to be surrounded with such strong releases and <font color="#00ffff">Compromise</font> is anything but! This is a no holes bared, good old fashioned, honest hard rocking album with a lineup that includes <b>Ronnie Parkes</b> (7 Witches), guitarist <b>Jack Frost</b> (7 Witches, Savatage, Metalium), keyboardist <b>Paul Morris</b> (Rainbow, Doro, Jurgen Blackmore), and special guests <b>Christian Tolle</b> and <b>Andy Susemihl</b>.<br /> This is not a commercial rock album though. Songs need a little time to absorb and the material is all very much in your face.<br /> The noted exception to that is the wonderfully heartfelt ballad <font color="#ffff00">Someone Beautiful</font>, which shows Reece's voice in a brand new light.<br /> A cover of the Creedence classic <font color="#ffff00">Fortune Son</font> is also good fun although I wouldn't have placed it in the front part of the album.<br /> Fans of Reece's gruff vocals and attitude laced delivery will love the hard hitting tracks <font color="#ffff00">Disaster, End It All, Evil Never Dies</font> and the furious <font color="#ffff00">All Roads Lead To War</font>.</font><br />   <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"> Quality performances and quality recording. As long as you are a fan of <b>David Reece</b>, this is another one for the shopping list. </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>Lost Weekend</b> <font color="#ffffff">Evermore</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/lostweekend-evermore.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">With all due respect to <b>Lost Weekend</b>, they are an unremarkable band. What mean is that they just do their thing without much pomp and ceremony, without the glamor of some other bands and certainly without the hype.<br /> But the truth is they are every bit as good as some higher profile acts and this album proves it. This is a very well-produced album which features some fine traditional British AOR/melodic rock songs.<br /> Waves of keyboards and solid guitar riffs dominate this record, with the dulcet tones of singer <b>Paul Uttley</b> sitting on top. Paul has the laid back kind of voice like <b>Ten's Gary Hughes</b> – not overly expressive and not for everyone, but thoroughly melodic and well suited to the music.<br /> The album has a pretty consistent feel and tempo throughout – a mid-tempo style that doesn't make the music instantly memorable, but the hooks are there and repeated listening is the key here. That's when the songs deliver.<br /> What sounds like a pretty sameish kind of record unfolds to a landscape of great British AOR. It's all very likable should the mood fit.<br /> What I will say is that there could have been a little more control in the editing suite. 12 tracks clocking in at 60 minutes with most around or over the 5 minute mark is simply too much. These aren't epic styled tracks, just your good old melodic rockers and a few tracks definitely could have been clipped at the 4 minute mark.</font><br />   <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"> For fans of British AOR like <b>Ten</b> and <b>Dare</b> – the band delivers possibly their best release 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sideburn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Electrify</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/sideburn-electrify.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> Sideburn</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>79%</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">I'm a little over <b>AC/DC</b> inspired riffage – if I want to listen to that style of hard rock, I'll listen to AC/DC themselves.<br /> Switzerland has more AC/DC clones than Australia – no idea why, but Sideburn are another – even if they are one of the best. I'm not sold on the singer's raspy and somewhat strained vocals, but there is no denying this is a solid slice of hard rock and this wouldn't be a bad album to crank in a bar whist drinking and enjoying oneself.<br /> Sometimes I really struggle to come up with a more descriptive or detailed analysis of an album. That's because sometimes it just isn't needed. If <b>AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, Shakra</b> with raspier vocals impress, then…Sideburn is your thing.<br /> I wouldn't call it the most memorable album of 2013, but there's absolutely nothing wrong with it either and the guys can play.<br /> And importantly, it's pretty well produced in that raw, bar room boogie kinda way.</font><br />   <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"> At 50 minutes and 14 tracks though…it's about 2-3 tracks too long. There's not enough variety to spear over the length of this album. </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>Farraday</b> <font color="#ffffff">Shade Of Love</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/farraday-shadeoflove.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> Stathis Spiliotopoulos</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">Farraday is a new melodic rock duo, born in Athens, Greece in 2012. The group comprises of <b>Roy Da Vis</b>, who is the composer, singer, guitarist & keyboard player and <b>Stathis Spiliotopoulos</b>, who is the producer of the project and also plays drums, bass and also supports with backing vocals.<br /> So you have a two man band deal going here, the guys delivering a selection of feel good, fluffy AOR tunes in an old-school 80s feel good style with vocals along the lines of <b>Johnny Lima/Jon Bon Jovi</b>.<br /> Keyboards and guitars get equal billing on these high energy songs, with a few sentimental ballads thrown into the mix.<br /> Production quality is not the greatest – the mix is very up and down across the album and that aspect makes it hard for an album like this to compete in 2013.<br /> I'm sure the style will appeal if you can get past a sometimes hollow sound; this album is straight out of 1984. </font><br />   <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"> 10 tracks and 44 minutes is a pretty good running time. One for old school 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>Niva</b> <font color="#ffffff">Magnitude</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/niva-magnitude.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> Tony Niva</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Tony Niva</b> returns with another <b>Niva</b> album – this one probably his best to date. The production is better than the two previous and I think the songwriting has also lifted a notch.<br /> Nothing here we haven't already got in our musical collections, but it's still a fun album and is going to appeal to fans of fluffy Swedish AOR with plenty of guitars and keyboards flying around with likeable higher pitch vocals.<br /> Musically it's not too far removed from the likes of <b>Grand Illusion</b> and <b>Amaze Me</b> (but with better production) and the energy within is undeniable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Just Another Heartache</font> is high energy screamer that could become an instant hit as could the ballad <font color="#ffff00">In A Misty Light</font> (if back in 1988).<br /> Elsewhere <font color="#ffff00">Never Too Late</font> is a great opener, <font color="#ffff00">Always Somewhere</font> keeps the pace flowing and <font color="#ffff00">Let It Shine</font> has that anthemic quality AOR fans love.</font><br />   <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"> Good quality, high energy melodic rock here – an emphasis on the 80s sound and plenty of high vocals and chorus hooks. </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>Harem Scarem</b> <font color="#ffffff">Mood Swings II</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">FRCD617 </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/haremscarem-moodswings2.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> Harem Scarem</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>99%</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">The masters are back! Yes, you knew it would happen eventually didn't you? And thank God it has. And yes, we'd all rather an all-new studio album, but the three brand new tracks here are so impossibly good that they are worth the price alone.<br /> But on top of that, the band have reclaimed the music that put them on the map in the first place – the iconic and utterly classic, brilliant and phenomenally perfect <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font>.<br /> The band re-recorded these iconic songs to celebrate the album's 20th Anniversary and also reclaim them from <b>Warner Bros</b> who still owns the original album.<br /> Normally any band that does such a thing is on a hiding to nothing, as how can anyone re-create brilliance of two decades past? But the guys come close.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings 2</font> is not an exact clone of the original, but its closest than some others have come such as <b>Def Leppard, Kiss</b> or <b>Dokken</b> trying to re-record their hits.<br /> There are subtle changes throughout, but the spirit, energy and class of the original is perfectly intact.<br /> To go through individual songs pointing out the changes would be pointless, but most noticeable is the slightly darker feel of <font color="#ffff00">Saviours Never Cry</font>; the (how shall we say it?) “raspier” vocals of Darren on <font color="#ffff00">Sentimental Blvd</font>; Pete's own tweaks within his instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Mandy</font> (adding piano is a genius move) and turning the accapela <font color="#ffff00">Just Like I Planned</font> into a fuller sounding track with instrumental backing – it sounds awesome and updates the track nicely.<br /> Then you have the three new tracks – holy smokes they are awesome.<br /> I wouldn't say that they have the exact same style as <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> as announced, but they do have the same energy and same hard rocking edge that fans have loved Harem doing in the past. It's the heaviest I have heard the band since <font color="#00ffff">Voice Of Reason</font>.<br /> The songs mix the attitude of <font color="#00ffff">Mood Swings</font> with the production style of their last few studio records before having a break.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">World Gone To Pieces</font> is simply majestic melodic bliss, with everything I love about melodic rock wrapped up into 4 minutes of power.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Anarchy</font> is equally as brilliant - urgent, heavy riff driven melodic rock with soaring vocals and a killer chorus. You just can't play this stuff loud enough.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Brighter Day</font> is the other side of the band – moodier, more reflective, but still filled with glorious harmonies and great hooks.</font><br />   <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"> No one writes melodic rock songs like Harry and Pete and <b>Harem Scarem</b> take their first step back by immediately showing everyone else how it's done. I hope they can commit to a brand new studio album next year and continue to shine as one of the greatest "undiscovered" bands on the rock era. This is essential for all fans – old and new. </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>Seventh Key</b> <font color="#ffffff">I Will Survive</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">FRCD623 </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/seventhkey-iwillsurvive.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> November 1</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>99%</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">Perfection! This is how you do it folks. This is how a melodic rock album should be produced and mixed. Utterly amazing sound, with not a note out of place, with the songs still managing to sound fresh, energetic and engaging.<br /> <b>Mike Slamer</b> is the man!<br /> And as usual, <b>Billy Greer</b> sounds amazing and the harmonies throughout this record are to die for.<br /> The whole range of performances on this album is about as good as you are going to get, which is why <b>Mike Slamer</b> is in high demand for his services, but nothing he does comes quickly. You can just hear the time and effort put into his records.<br /> And thank God Mike knows that programming will only get you so far and a real drummer is always needed. He gets it.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">I Will Survive</font> is quite a diverse record compared to the first two <b>Seventh Key</b> records, but it isn't outside the sound expected.<br /> Just a little more progressive in nature and add in a couple of quirky tunes and you get a very interesting and challenging record – that's instantly likable at the same time. Combining those 2 elements is no easy task.<br /> <br /> The opening title track <font color="#ffff00">I Will Survive</font> is everything I like about Slamer – progressive leaning, ultra-high tech production and layers upon layers of instruments, hooks and harmonies. It's just a wall of sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lay In On The Line</font> is just as complicated and even heavier, with a choppy guitar and keyboard riffs driving the song. The layers upon layers of instrumentation take several listens to get to know, but the vocals and melody are instant.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I See You There</font> features a beautiful mellower and somewhat sparse verse while the chorus rises to the heavens with more anthemic juice.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's Just A State Of Mind</font> is just a simple, fast paced melodic rocker with harmonies everywhere.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sea Of Dreams</font> is the album's most 'quirky' number – a soft acoustic track with David Ragsdale's unmistakable violin the only other instrument aside from some glorious harmony vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Time And Time Again</font> builds slowly after the softer previous track. From a mellow verse it grows to another glorious harmony driven chorus with a lot of musical interplay underneath.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When Love Sets You Free</font> is another high energy, rocking track with (yes, again), layers and layers of vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Down</font> is a harder rocking, darker tune with shades of <b>Steelhouse Lane</b> to it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Only One</font> is perfect melodic rock. Bubbly, fast paced and happy go lucky with a perfect anthemic chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What Love's Supposed To Be</font> is the album's big heavy sentimental ballad with a ton of stuff going on underneath the lead vocal. Classy ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Want It All</font> is heavy and progressive and layered with harmony vocals. The album closes as it began. And the listener is left exhausted, but extremely happy.</font><br />   <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"> Just about as good as it gets folks. Essential for everyone. Period. Production perfection. </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>Coney Hatch</b> <font color="#ffffff">Four</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">FRCD619 </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/coneyhatch-four.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 Curran & Vic Florencia</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> November 1</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">After 20 years out of the studio, what does classic <b>Coney Hatch</b> sound like today? I'm not sure, but I like what I hear here – that is a mix of old Hatch, some <b>Andy Curran</b> and <b>Carl Dixon</b> solo influences and even some new stylings for good measure.<br /> It's a more diverse album than I anticipated, but the bottom line is that it rocks, it's produced really well and I like the songs.<br /> The album seems to sway back and forth between classic <b>AC/DC</b> style riff driven songs and more modern styled moodier tracks.<br /> You've got some AC/DC style hard riffing with the excellent opener <font color="#ffff00">Blown Away</font> – it's great to hear the vocals of Dixon in such fine form; the darker and moodier modern sounding <font color="#ffff00">Boys Club</font>; the spritely, free flowing rocker <font color="#ffff00">Down And Dirty</font>; the modern <font color="#ffff00">Do It Again</font> and back to the hard rocking old school of the catchy <font color="#ffff00">Connected</font>.<br /> The most left of center track is the very melodic and enjoyable <font color="#ffff00">Revive</font>.<br /> The band really rocks out on <font color="#ffff00">We Want More</font> and cools their heals on <font color="#ffff00">The Devil You Know</font> before moving to a pretty honest cover of <b>The Angels</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">Marseille</font>.<br /> The moody and reflective <font color="#ffff00">Holding On</font> is a classy way to close the album.</font><br />   <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, I'm impressed with the way the guys have managed to make a diverse musical album sound cohesive and keep the alternating vocals between Dixon and Curran from being distracting. Can't see any issues with Hatch fans adopting this as a new favourite. Something for all fans of solid and classy honest rock n roll. </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>Sammy Hagar & Friends</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sammy Hagar & Friends</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">FRCD616 </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/sammyhagar-andfriends.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> Sammy Hagar & John Cuniberti</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> 2013</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> Everything</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">The legends are letting us down. Too often lately the superstar artists have been outshined by the younger, lesser known bands. I hope folks investigate these new artists with the same curiosity that a big name release brings.<br /> I guess the older artists, such as Sammy Hagar get to a point where they have nothing left to prove and they just record for their own enjoyment. That's cool…who could begrudge any artist that kind of mindset. It's clear to me that <b>Sammy Hagar</b> is doing just that right there. The only problem is that the artist can forget to check if any of their fans actually want to hear the end result.<br /> Then again, maybe the artists don't care.<br /> So there's nothing wrong with this album in its delivery – it's well produced (far better than the abomination that was Sammy's last album <font color="#00ffff">Cosmic Universal Fashion</font>) and it's mixed with a clear and even balance.<br /> But the fast is…it's boring. And it's totally self-indulgent. There's almost no classic Sammy-rock-n-roll on here. We have blues, Cajun, R&B, country and rockabilly, but only a couple of songs that really rock – <font color="#ffff00">Knockdown Dragout</font> and the clichéd <font color="#ffff00">Bad On Fords and Chevrolets</font>, and even those are infused with a twist of country.<br /> Sammy and his mates may have had a blast recording this, but I can't see who in his fan base is going to sit down and pronounce this as an album they always wanted to hear.<br /> Sorry, but the likes of <b>Neal Schon, Michael Anthony, Chad Smith, Ann Wilson, Micky Hart, Vic Johnson</b>, and <b>Denny Carmassi</b> can't cover up the fact these are just plain and dull songs in a style traditional Hagar fans are not going to have on heavy rotation at all.</font><br />   <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 a long long time die hard Hagar fan. I've got everything the man has ever done. But I won't be playing this album again. Same as was the case with his last solo album - so that's two in a row Sammy. Thank God there is <b>Chickenfoot</b> to enjoy. </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>Impera</b> <font color="#ffffff">Pieces Of Eden</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/impera-piecesofeden.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> Impera</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> 2013</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> Bluesy 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Swede's <b>Impera</b> are back for album number two, picking up where they left off with their good value debut. I said in my review of that album that is was great to hear guitarist <b>Tommy Denander</b> crank it up and stretch out as far as his riffing and solo delivery.<br /> He's still got that same guitar tone as always, but the production behind the debut and this album also is pretty impressive and helps beef up his sound overall. I'm particularly impressed with the rhythm section on this new album and the production gives it a real thumping beat.<br /> As always vocalist <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b> sounds impressive and perfectly suited to the music. His voice one I could listen to for hours on end. Impera's style is a little different than some of the more instantly recognizable melodic rock being delivered out of Sweden.<br /> This is a bluesier slice of hard rock. Crunchy hard rock guitars with a blues edge and Matti's voice in a more sultry delivery.<br /> The only issue I have here is the work required to get into the songs. Even as I write this review there are still a few I'm not getting into, but the majority have finally clicked – but they required a lot of listening – more time than some others are likely to give.<br /> <b>Tommy Denander</b> sounds great and rocks like never before and the rest of the band all deliver great performances. But the songs do require some effort to like and a few tracks with a more commercial feel could have balanced out the album in a more satisfying manner.<br /> They really need to work on the hooklines within the songs. Everything else is in place.<br /> Highlights include the punchy opener <font color="#ffff00">Beast Within</font>; the slower bluesy ballad of sorts <font color="#ffff00">Since You've Been Gone</font>; <font color="#ffff00">Easy Come</font> isn't far short of being a great track and <font color="#ffff00">You And I</font> is one that really grows into a favoruite.<br /> The groovy and sultry <font color="#ffff00">Fire And The Flame</font> is a good grinding track that's beauty is revealed with repeat listens.</font><br />   <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"> But the general view I hold is that the album sticks to a similar pace throughout and some additional hooks could have gone a long way. As stated, everything else is in place, so the third album from the band should be their classic. Let's go guys! </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>Eden's Curse</b> <font color="#ffffff">Symphony Of Sin</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/edenscurse-symphonyofsin.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> Paul Logue (Mixed: 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> 67</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.edenscurse.com" target="new">Eden's Curse</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>97%</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">Far too long between drinks for <b>Eden's Curse</b>, but they make up for it in fine style with an album that captures your attention from the get go and delivers everything you loved about the band, just intensified.<br /> The guys are now looking to recapture lost momentum with over a dozen songs that deliver the Curse sound and style as expect, but with a surprising twist – the band is more melodic than ever.<br /> The guys continue to deliver powerhouse hard rock, but instead of cruising (cursing?) towards melodic metal, <font color="#00ffff">Symphony Of Sin</font> pulls towards melodic rock. However, they don't give an inch on quality or production values, nor in the intensity that the past albums delivered.<br /> Produced by <b>Paul Logue</b> and mixed and mastered by constant collaborator <b>Dennis Ward</b>, <font color="#00ffff">Symphony Of Sin</font> might just open the band up for a wider audience, especially as Serbian vocalist <b>Nikola Mijic</b> sounds remarkably like <b>Kevin Chalfant</b> in places, giving the material a further melodic edge.<br /> I have to make a small (positive) point – I'm grateful to the band for not cutting the epic opening track into an “intro” and the song itself. I love those big building opening tracks that run at 6+ minutes and this 7:40 epic rocker is trademark Curse and just sounds that more epic for having that intro built in as part of the full song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Break The Silence</font> is a double kick drum pounder that sounds like <b>Kevin Chalfant</b> joining <b>Hammerfall</b>. Fantastic. The lower toned harmony vocals add that heavy edge, while Nikola's vocals glide over the top.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Evil & Divine</font> is again a classic Curse track that could have come from any of the previous records and is a natural single. The high notes reached in delivering the hooks are something to behold.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Unbreakable</font> is already being heralded as a new high point for the band and I think is an idea opening for new fans to check out the guys. Heavy, passionate and perfectly anthemic come chorus time while the drums hammer home the power. The soaring chorus and instantly likable hook makes this track a gem.<br /> The near 6 minute epic power ballad fallen <font color="#ffff00">From Grace</font> is power and finesse at the same time, with some astonishingly good vocals in play.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Losing My Faith</font> turns things darker and heavier again and takes me back to the sound of the band's debut. Another solid track in an album with no filler.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rock Bottom</font> is another stand out for me as the power that drives the verse gives way to an almost AOR chorus – one that sticks in your head from the first spin. Again the Chalfant comparisons come to mind, but KC never sang with a band like this behind him.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Great Unknown, Turn The Page</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Wings To Fly</font> are just a flat out, fast moving feel good rockers with catchy choruses.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sign Of The Cross</font> features another stand out vocal from Nikola and stands alongside the band's best material with plenty going on in the guitars department – both electric and acoustic.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Devil In Disguise</font> rocks hard and <font color="#ffff00">Where Is The Love</font> is the perfect way to close the album – in traditional Curse fashion, rocking with a twist and a big chorus filled with harmony vocals. Awesome.</font><br />   <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 'must investigate' for all fans of this site and the music within. Power, melody, harmonies and major label production. Terrific songs and a wholly likeable singer brings this band to new heights and kick-starts them into a new chapter with plenty more to come. </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>The Winery Dogs</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Winery Dogs</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Loud & Proud</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/thewinerydogs.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> The Winery Dogs</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.facebook.com/thewinerydogs" target="new">The Winery Dogs</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">I've read some amazing accolades for this album and for the most part I'm going to mirror those. This is a fabulous record without doubt.<br /> This is an impressive debut for the guys. Can three legends of the biz actually claim an album like this to be a debut? I say that in jest, as the guys have all recorded together and played together in the past, so the pairing seems so natural and they have so much experience between them, it hardly seems fair to pit other debut albums up against this immense record.<br /> The production quality here is phenomenal too. The record sounds so crisp and clear and had this same sound been used on the last (brilliant) <b>Mr. Big</b> album, I probably would have rated it 110%.<br /> Whatever discussion the fans had on that album's <b>Kevin Shirley</b> delivered sound has been corrected here.<br /> And <b>Billy Sheehan</b> - the guy is simply a freeking genius. I could listen to his bass playing all day, all night, all year. <b>Mike Portnoy</b> delivers his expected powerhouse performance behind the kit, adding more groove than I've heard from him in recent years.<br /> And <b>Richie Kotzen</b> simple sounds amazing as usual. His bluesy and quirky tone is not for all, but when in accompaniment from such legends as Billy and Mike, it's hard to imagine anyone else on vocals. Except for maybe <b>Eric Martin</b> – for as much as the guys stand on their own, I can't help but hear a lot of Mr. Big going on here (and that's a good thing).<br /> <br /> Highlights include the naturally Mr. Big sounding anthem <font color="#ffff00">Elevate</font>; the bluesy melodic angst of <font color="#ffff00">I'm No Angel</font>; the immense musical intensity of <font color="#ffff00">The Other Side</font>; the warmth and passion of <font color="#ffff00">You Saved Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Damaged</font>; the hard rocking wall of sound on <font color="#ffff00">Not Hopeless</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Six Feet Deeper</font>.<br /> But most songs are great stuff. Funnily though, the only one I'm mot warming to is <font color="#ffff00">Desire</font>, which I think it completely out of place at track two., In fact, the ones thing I'd say about the album is that perhaps the sequencing of tracks is a little “off”. Not sure what order I'd run them in, but I think that's the album's only flaw for my personal experience. Maybe 1 or 2 tracks too many also. It's a long record.</font><br />   <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>The Winery Dogs</b> are firmly on the map with album number one, it makes one wonder what's going to be possible with album number two after touring together and really having a chance to feed of each other's talents. More please! But not before a new <b>Mr. Big</b> record please Billy. </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>Find Me</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wings Of Love</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/findme-wingsoflove.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> 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> 54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">This album is best described as a 54 minute, seat of your pants, AOR powerhouse ride. Producer/musician <b>Daniel Flores</b> brings his a-game to this free flowing, uptempo melodic rock gem, fronted by one of the biggest voices in the business today – <b>Robbie La Blanc</b> (Blanc Faces).<br /> The sound won't be unfamiliar to fans of European AOR – the formulated mix of driving rock guitar and prominent keyboards, plus a thumping rhythm section has been done over many times, but seldomly as well as this.<br /> Why so good? As stated the production quality and general pace of the album is very engaging, but the songs themselves are first rate.<br /> And <b>Robbie La Blanc</b> has thrown himself head first into these tunes. He really does sing his ass off.<br /> Primarily we have 4 <b>Martin Brothers</b> tunes here and several from <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> (him again?!!). All quality songs!<br /> The driving force of <font color="#ffff00">Road To Nowhere</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Another World</font> are undeniable, then there is the super melodic anthem <font color="#ffff00">Dancing To A Broken Heart</font> (wonderful!) and a big AOR power ballad in <font color="#ffff00">Eternally</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Firefight</font> gets heavier and edgier; <font color="#ffff00">On The Outside</font> features another big vocal; <font color="#ffff00">On Soul</font> is a fast moving tour de force with a killer chorus; <font color="#ffff00">Powerless</font> is a little more restrained but features another strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bottom Of My Heart</font> moves fast and has a feel good element to it.<br /> The building anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Unbreakable</font> is an <b>Erik Martensson</b> song, so you know it's all class.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wings Of Love</font> is yet another strong chorus and the album closes with the heavy/edgy <font color="#ffff00">Your Lips</font>, which is a powerful way to close any album.</font><br />   <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"> Get it. Simple as that! Big, loud, powerful. </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>Little River Band</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cuts Like A Diamond</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/lrb-cutslikeadiamond.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> Rich Herring & Wayne Nelson</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> 2013</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> Pop/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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Is this really <b>LRB</b>? Well, no, not really, but the name has floated around since the 90s with very different lineups than what is remembered for delivering all the hits of the 70s and 80s and ownership of the name has swapped around per court hearings, so it is a little messy.<br /> So I'll take this album on face value. The band is long time member <b>Wayne Nelson</b> and some new faces, but what is most important is the musical content.<br /> And I have to say – the guys have really delivered here.<br /> They can't take much credit for the songwriting though. Only a few self-penned tunes here. What they can take credit for is choosing the right songs to record and in turn, making them their own, with a classic breezy Westcoast/pop/AOR <b>Little River Band</b> sound in play throughout.<br /> The production is also nice and crisp and clean.<br /> This is a pretty laid back affair, but the songs really do make for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.<br /> The harmonies and hooks of <font color="#ffff00">The Lost And The Lonely</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Forever You Forever Me</font> are simply superb, and the title track <font color="#ffff00">Cuts Like A Diamond</font> is another gem – no pun intended.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'm An Island</font> is a semi-country influenced tune, reinforcing the style of this album, but it remains a classy song.<br /> And so it continues… The band doesn't really lift out of second gear, in the same way the <b>Rembrandts</b> tended to do on their debut.<br /> The pace drops away a little further towards the end….only <font color="#ffff00">Who Speaks For Me</font> really stands out in my mind of the last few tracks, but otherwise this is a very consistent record.</font><br />   <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"> But overall, a very solid pop/rock record with Westcoast and AOR touches. Sweet harmonies, pleasant songs and lush harmonies. Pretty much what LRB always have been known for. </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>Arc Angel</b> <font color="#ffffff">Harlequins Of Light</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/arcangel-harlequinsoflight.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> Jeff Cannata</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Chances are that the main group of people looking at buying this album are well aware of prog-pop-miester <b>Jeff Cannata</b> and his unique musical visions.<br /> Jeff delivers thinking man's AOR – adult melodic rock with a slightly progressive twist, a raspy, moody vocal and layers upon layers of keyboards and guitarist.<br /> Anyone familiar with Jeff's earlier <b>Arc Angels</b> release or his own solo releases will know that this is classic Cannata.<br /> Everything expected is in play here and the production, while fairly raw in one sense, is authentic and works well with the material on offer. Very 70s in places…very real.<br /> Songs wise Jeff delivers some great stuff here.<br /> The twisting hooks and key changes, the leading bridges and moody verses are all part and parcel of the <b>Arc Angel</b> experience.<br /> Favourites are plentiful. Of course the opening track is a winner as is <font color="#ffff00">As Far As The Eye Can See</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">War</font> is a particular favorite, with the mix of piano and acoustic guitars with heartfelt lyrics offering something unique.<br /> The ultra-moody <font color="#ffff00">Voice Of Illuminati</font> is cool; the soaring Kansas styled pomp-epic <font color="#ffff00">Through The Night</font> is tremendous and the vocal a highlight and <font color="#ffff00">California Daze</font> is an unusually upbeat and positive AOR anthem.<br /> Same with the acoustic driven <font color="#ffff00">Get To You</font> – a nice up-tempo double header for Cannata fans.</font><br />   <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 must buy for those in the know. Others looking for something a little different and some musical intelligence to balance out the pink and fluffy, check this 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>ColdSpell</b> <font color="#ffffff">Frozen 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> </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/coldspell-frozenparadise.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> ColdSpell</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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">Sweden's melodic hard rockers <b>ColdSpell</b> have delivered two quality albums to date – the second building on the promise of the debut. And now number three kicks the band into the big league.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Frozen Paradise</font> puts the icing on the cake for these guys (pun intended this time…).<br /> An even better production, crisp mix, huge wall of guitars throughout and those booming Swedish vocals from <b>Niklas Swedentorp</b>. Plus some killer songs.<br /> The one-two melodic hard rock punch of <font color="#ffff00">Paradise</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Angel Of The World</font> is no finer way to kick off any album.<br /> My only issue with the entire record is the placement of <font color="#ffff00">Life Has Just Begun</font> at track 3. I just don't think the slower, longer track works after the high energy openers.<br /> And <font color="#ffff00">Goin' All The Way</font> is probably also out of place due to the previous track placement. It's momentum killing.<br /> But the more melodic and intense <font color="#ffff00">Alive</font> re-engages the listener before the quality heavy ballad <font color="#ffff00">Life 2 Live</font> arrives.<br /> From there it's all killer, no filler, with <font color="#ffff00">On The Run</font> moving fast with a cool chorus and <font color="#ffff00">Soldiers</font> pounding through the speakers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Falling</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Dark Reflections</font> both take a few listens, but deliver strong results.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Legacy</font> closes the album in a slower tempo, but an epic feel.</font><br />   <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"> For lovers of fine Swedish melodic hard rock, look no further, yet another one to add to your collections. Solid and enjoyable and extremely well produced. </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>Fergie Frederiksen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Any Given Moment</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">FRCD613 </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/fergiefrederiksen-anygivenmoment.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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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>Fergie Frederiksen</b> returns relatively quickly considering the past gap between his solo releases and vocal projects. All I can say is – thank you!<br /> Two years since <font color="#00ffff">Happiness Is The Road</font>, the rock n roll survivor continues to battle cancer, but delivers vocals from another world.<br /> Swapping from the <b>Dennis Ward</b> production team to <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b>, Fergie finds an extra boost, co-writing a few tunes with Ale, who also delivers a few of his own songs specifically written for this album. Fergie also uses a few other quality co-writes, one with long time friend <b>Jim Peterik</b> and another with <b>Work Of Art's Robert Sall</b>.<br /> These songs add a more personal touch than the last album, plus Ale has pulled a great vocal performance from Fergie across the entire album.<br /> The sound of the album is a mix of European AOR, Fergie's own distinct style, a little <b>Toto</b> <font color="#00ffff">Isolation</font> and a little from the last solo release, making this a nice companion to that album.<br /> Highlights are numerous – the fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Last Battle Of My War</font> is hopefully not a more profound lyric than it was intended to be from Ale's pen. Fergie sings it with gusto and passion. The 6 and a half minute <font color="#ffff00">Price For Loving You</font> is another fantastic lead vocal and a memorable hook, all drenched in keyboards.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be The One</font> is one of Fergie's best ballads in memory. A terrific heartfelt mid-tempo song written by <b>Robert Sall</b> with Fergie.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Times Will Change</font> is another instantly likable uptempo classic AOR anthem.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How Many Roads</font> is a slow classic AOR ballad with a soaring vocal and an orchestral feel. Another absolute gem of a ballad.<br /> The light and breezy <font color="#ffff00">Any Given Moment</font> is classic <b>Jim Peterik</b> and yet another stand out lyric and melody with Fergie singing it beautifully. And the backing vocals on this track add tremendously to the atmosphere.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Not Alone</font> is an ok track, but I really don't get the need for a duet with Swedish AOR vocalist <b>Issa</b>. It reeks of needless cross-promotion.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">When The Battle Is Over</font> is another absolute gem of a song and one that might just stand head and shoulders above the other gems on the album. Power – finesse – melody and a wonderful vocal.</font><br />   <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"> Someone with the vocal ability of Fergie – who came to fame first with <b>LeRoux</b> and <b>Trillion</b> and later with <b>Toto</b> on one of their finest releases Isolation – needs to keep making music. I pray that he can once again overcome his long battle with cancer and come back as strong as he sounds here…soon.<br /> We love you Fergie. A terrific release right here for all fans of AOR and the legendary vocalist.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>King Kobra</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">Frontiers Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD610 </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/kingkobra-2.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> King Kobra</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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>King Kobra</b> return in quick time from their comeback release <b>King Kobra</b>, with vocalist <b>Paul Shortino</b> in tow. I've already gone over how this is an entirely different beast to the original <b>Mark Free</b> fronted band, so let's go straight to the new material.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">King Kobra II</font> is a rocking and very likable affair.<br /> However, the bio adds that the album “a crystal clear sound that combines the best of both analogue and digital recording techniques.”<br /> I personally think the album has a bit of a muddy sound overall. There bottom end is king on this set of songs. Obviously that's part of the 70s vibe the band acknowledges replicating, stating <i>“the band digs even deeper into its hard rock roots to create an album that has all the swagger and swing of the classic 70's albums.”</i><br /> But I would still have preferred the sound to be a little clearer. I'll presume that the idea is to present the songs in their most energetic raw, live format. That they have certainly done.<br /> This album has a more consistent and cohesive band sound to the last album and the songs have a lot of energy to them.<br /> There's a certain <b>David Lee Roth</b> era <b>Van Halen</b> vibe to this album – especially on songs like the double time boogie of <font color="#ffff00">The Ballad Of Jonny Rod</font>.<br /> You've also got the raspy <b>Rod Stewart/The Faces</b> side of the band – that authentic 70s rock style that the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Take Me Back</font> highlights.<br /> There's a few fillers among the 12 tracks on offer, but the boogie hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Running Wild</font>; the frantic <font color="#ffff00">Knock 'Em Dead</font> and 'the crunch' of <font color="#ffff00">The Crunch</font> gives classic hard rock fans plenty to rock along to.<br /> The album closes out with one of the better tracks in the anthemic <font color="#ffff00">We Go Round</font>. At an hour in length, it might be a couple of tracks too long.</font><br />   <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 last album will need to pick this up – its better in every department (maybe not quite on the production side), but the songs, performances and energy of the record are undeniable. If the style suits – it's a pretty strong record.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Whitesnake</b> <font color="#ffffff">Made In Britain</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">FRCD611 </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/whitesnake-madeinbritain.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> Whitesnake</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Ok, just to summarize – in the last decade <b>Whitesnake</b> have delivered no less than 5 live albums; 3 box set compilations and just two studio albums. That output is a little uneven and one hopes this is the last live album for a lengthy period.<br /> That being said – it's probably the best of the bunch as far as a kick ass <b>Doug Aldrich</b> led band and a set list heavy on promoting those 2 studio albums.<br /> The track list of the <font color="#00ffff">Made in Britain</font> disc mirrors the <font color="#00ffff">Made In Japan</font> disc closely – as stated, concentrating on the band's last 2 studio albums.<br /> It is the more expansive “World Record” second disc that I appreciate even more so. Songs taken from various shows around the place – the lesser played songs of the tour, but some more great 'Snake tunes at any rate.<br /> And again – they all sound marvelous in the manner in which this lineup executes the songs.<br /> Again I could really do without these silly solo spots, but they aren't likely to disappear from Whitesnake's repertoire are they?</font><br />   <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"> Oh well…another one for the die-hards. If you already have <font color="#00ffff">Made In Japan</font>, this is probably next on your list. If you are wondering which of the two is better – I'd go with this.<br /> But enough live releases already! </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>Deep Purple</b> <font color="#ffffff">Now What?!</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/deeppurple-nowwhat.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 Ezrin</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> 2013</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> 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.deep-purple.com" target="new">Deep Purple</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">It's taken me way too long to get to this review, but it wasn't all because of other things in the way. It's taken me an age to really get to know this album and decide if I just liked it, or really loved it. And I'm still not totally sure I love all aspects of it, but for the most part I have given up resistance to a couple of tracks I wasn't warning to and am just enjoying the rest.<br /> <b>Deep Purple's</b> 19th studio album was a long time coming, but in the end was worth the wait.<br /> Interestingly enough, for me I think the star of the show is successor to the late <b>Jon Lord</b>, Mr. <b>Don Airey</b>. He is all over this record with a ton of keyboard/organ tricks and fills and at all times is the backbone to the songs.<br /> <b>Ian Gillan</b> sounds in fine form as does the always dependable <b>Steve Morse</b>. I think this is the band's best record since the classic first post-Blackmore release <font color="#00ffff">Perpendicular</font>. But it has taken me some time to reach that conclusion.<br /> I love the way the album opens. The building tension of <font color="#ffff00">A Simple Song</font> is almost a song in itself and I could have used more of that great vocal melody from <b>Ian Gillan</b>. The other part of the song is a terrific straight up rock song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Weirdstan</font> is an apt title for a song that is diverse and offers some side passages of musical intrigue.<br /> The 6 minute <font color="#ffff00">Out Of Hand</font> is a classic Purple 70s rocker; while <font color="#ffff00">Hell To Pay</font> is a faster mix of the band's 70s sound and their 80s output. I like it a lot.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bodyline</font> is a true groover and one that took some time to grow on me.<br /> The darker and heavier <font color="#ffff00">Above And Beyond</font> sees <b>Ian Gillan</b> deliver one of my favourite vocals for the album – good chorus too.<br /> The band loses me a bit on <font color="#ffff00">Blood From A Stone</font> which is followed by the intense 7 minute theatrical rocker <font color="#ffff00">Uncommon Man</font>. I love the organ parts of this song and the whole overall vibe of it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Après Vous</font> is another groove rocker that sits in that mid-tempo plod that I'm not often a fan of.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All The Time In The World</font> has a nice melody and a memorable chorus, but I think the sequencing of the album is a little off as I don't think this track suits being placed at this point in proceedings. Sonically it reminds me of <font color="#00ffff">Perpendicular</font>.<br /> The single <font color="#ffff00">Vincent Price</font> sits second to last in the album, which again calls into question the sequencing of the album. Truly bizarre choice of single – it's one of the least memorable songs on the album.<br /> Closing with the boogie rock n roll of <font color="#ffff00">It'll Be Me</font> leaves me scratching my head. In fact, the sequencing of the last half of the album doesn't work for me at all, even if the songs themselves are ok.</font><br />   <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 few misses, but a lot of good stuff within this album and I think the band has managed to capture the essential vibe of what a <b>Deep Purple</b> album in 2013 should sound like. Some inspired passages of musical brilliance and a couple of WTF moments.<br /> But overall, the end result is an album I know I'll continue to play after this review process has been completed. Legendary producer <b>Bob Ezrin</b> hs managed to pull some interesting stuff out of the guys. </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>Newman</b> <font color="#ffffff">Siren</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/newman-siren.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.newmansound.com" target="new">Newman</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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>Steve Newman</b> is as about as regular and dependable an artist as you can get in this business. Another year (well, it's been 2 actually) delivers another fine <b>Newman</b> release to devour.<br /> I've seen Steve develop his sound over the years and while I have really enjoyed every release, I did see him toughen up over the last few years and move away a little from the more AOR sounds of his earlier work that I personally prefer.<br /> I am absolutely thrilled with this new <b>Newman</b> album for two reasons. One – the songs are just super compelling and super catchy.<br /> Secondly – the sound mixes the recent harder edge sound with everything I loved about Steve's earlier work. There's a more pronounced AOR feel to several tracks and a ton of keyboards on here.<br /> On top of all that – the album is one of his best sounding releases ever – production is terrific and there are a couple of absolute monster songs that will be right up there for end of year awards.<br /> Highlights from the crunchy and melodic <font color="#00ffff">Siren</font> include the pounding anthemic opener <font color="#ffff00">Scar Of Love</font>, blasting a beefed up drum sound from <b>Eden's Curse</b> drummer <b>Pete Newdeck</b>; the wonderfully and blissfully melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Arcadia</font>, featuring some memorable lead vocals and harmonies; and the contender for song of the year <font color="#ffff00">Feel Her Again</font> – one of Steve's best melodic rock anthems with a chorus to die for; the drums are again in power overdrive for the hard rocking brilliance of <font color="#ffff00">Some Kind of Wonderful</font>.<br /> The title track <font color="#ffff00">Siren</font> is also another great track; <font color="#ffff00">Crossfire</font> mixes things up with hooks swapping in and out; and the big impassioned ballad <font color="#ffff00">The Foolish One</font> is perfect and features a nice guitar solo.</font><br />   <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 mixes the best of yesterday and today. An 80s melodic feel, but with updated production and it also mixes the best of <b>Newman</b> of the 90s and more recent styles. But above all – great production and some of the best songs in one place that I've heard from Steve in a while. Just quality all-round. </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>Robin Beck</b> <font color="#ffffff">Underneath</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Cargo 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/robinbeck-underneath.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> James Christian</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.robinbeckrocks.com" target="new">Robin Beck</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">I have read some interesting comments about this release already, so I guess it's time to weigh in with my verdict. Some don't seem to like Robin's updated sound on several songs within this record, but it's something that I think suits her beautifully.<br /> She has already proven she can sing rings around most and can deliver classic AOR in her sleep. So why not branch out a little?<br /> The modernized sound of this record and the catchy nature of the material prove that Robin is still a force to be reckoned with and if any number of these songs was covered by the likes of <b>Pink</b> or <b>Katy Perry</b>, they would be all over radio.<br /> It isn't modern rock by any stretch; it's just updated and contemporary AOR/melodic rock. I hope people have an open mind here, and there is still plenty of “old” Robin to enjoy also.<br /> With songs like the bombastic and pomptastic <font color="#ffff00">Wrecking Ball</font>, how could you go wrong? Simply one of Robin's best songs ever as far as I'm concerned and the updated production gives it a real hit single kinda feel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ain't That Just Like Love</font> is the best song <b>Fiona</b> recorded in my mind, and Robin delivers a great version of it here.<br /> The quite modern sounding <font color="#ffff00">Sprain</font> could be on radio anywhere in the world, no doubt. I like the extra aggressive edge in Robin's voice.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Underneath</font> is something very special indeed. What a powerful, emotional and enduring ballad. And what a vocal! Outstanding. Love it.<br /> Ok, so every great album is allowed a WTF moment and <font color="#ffff00">Catfight</font> seems to be the one most people have decided is this album's moment. Right at home on any <b>Pink</b> album, the song is another instantly memorable pop-rocker with angst. I'm not a big fan of this track though.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Check Your Attitude</font> is perfectly placed next to <font color="#ffff00">Catfight</font> as it's the album's other “ultra-modern” track. Again, not a favourite chorus, but I do love the absolute barnstorming pace and attitude of the song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burnin Me Down</font> is a gorgeous ballad and another duet track with hubby <b>James Christian</b>. Another solid hook and chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Perfect Storm</font> is an uptempo, slightly darker melodic rocker that has certain <b>House Of Lords</b> vibe.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ya Can't Fight Love</font> is a more easy going, breezy, feel good pop rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Swear The Nights</font> will get my vote as one of the year's best ballads – there are some good ones around this year. A huge vocal, huge chorus and huge 'hell yeah' from me!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Follow You</font> is a brilliant version of the <b>Glen Burtnik</b> AOR classic. No one could screw up such a good song, but Robin makes it her own with a spirited vocal and a guest solo by Glen himself. Wonderful! And a cool way to close the album.</font><br />   <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 a great balance of melodic rockers, heartfelt ballads and more contemporary numbers on this album. Some might not like the update approach, but I think the tracks all work well together. Coupled together with some of the best vocals I have heard from Robin and a great sounding record, I think all fans of the gal will eat this up. </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>Lawless</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock Savage</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/lawless-rocksavage.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> Hume / Ogden </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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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>Lawless</b> are a pretty basic British melodic metal outfit featuring current <b>Demon</b> members <b>Neil Ogden</b> and <b>Paul Hume</b> along with <b>Persian Risk</b> guitar maestro <b>Howie G</b> and <b>HeadrusH</b> bassist <b>Josh "Tabbie" Williams</b>.<br /> Their style is 80's anthemic classic rock with a solid beat and an impressive production quality.<br /> The guys have nailed their brief as far as the sound is concerned; this is traditional old-school metal and hard rock. And at 11 tracks for 55 minutes, it is quite a lengthy release with most tracks coming in around the 5 minute mark.<br /> There are some contemporary touches with the occasional down-tuned guitar, but for the most part their influences are classic <b>Saxon, Dio</b> and the band adds in <b>Queensryche</b> and <b>Gotthard</b> in their bio. Not sure about those last two.<br /> The only issues I have with this release is that the vocals are a little flat or understated for my liking and I don't think the songs are as strong as they could be in the hooks department.</font><br />   <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 sounding record, but a little more energy is needed. </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>Until Rain</b> <font color="#ffffff">Anthem To Creation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/untilrain-anthemtocreation.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> Until Rain / Jens Bogren</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">Progressive metal and Greek folklore isn't necessarily what I would order for breakfast, but Greek hard rockers <b>Until Rain</b> seem to know what they are doing.<br /> Musically the band suggests they sit <i>“comfortably between the melodic progressive metal of Shadow Gallery or Circus Maximus and the more epic orchestral power of Symphony X or Time Requiem.”</i><br /> Not sure I can add to that. Sounds about right. What I can do is say that the album packs a powerful punch. There is no denying the band's technical abilities, or their instrumental prowess.<br /> This is a very intense and complex record that won't be digested in any one sitting.<br /> I think it's done pretty well. I like some progressive when it's done well and these guys are seriously intent on blowing my speakers apart with some super heavy riffing and double pass thrashing.<br /> I'm not totally sold on the vocals, although there aren't any accent issues going on. I think the main aim of the record is to pack in as may riffs as humanly possible. Chorus structure and hooks are a distant second in this regard.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Own Blood</font> is a more restrained and melodic track that I like and the strangely titled 10 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">Empty Helmet</font> gives prog fans something to really sink their teeth into.<br /> 11 tracks and 79 minutes – including one 18 minute epic with theatrical and orchestral passages – and another 9 minute album closer – means that this album is not for the feint hearted. </font><br />   <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 are rewards for patience and the whole affair is very well produced. But not for fans of pink and fluffy! </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>James Christian</b> <font color="#ffffff">Lay It All On Me</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">FRCD609 </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/jameschristian-layitallonme.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="#ff8000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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>James Christian</b> returns with solo album number 3 – his first in nearly a decade thanks to a busy schedule with <b>House of Lords</b>. <font color="#00ffff">Lay It All On Me</font> is quite a superb set of songs, penned mostly with his HOL band mates following a tough, but successful battle with cancer.<br /> The songs are some of the catchiest and most melodic from James in one place at one time. There are lots of keyboards on here – more than any recent HOL release and it's great to hear James singing along with them. The album does at times remind me of the keyboard dominated <b>House Of Lords</b> debut – an all-time classic for me.<br /> And I'd have no hesitation in rating this album well into the 90s. Except for the production. And no, I'm not reviewing from MP3s, I have the finished completed CD here.<br /> The quality really is extremely questionable and of major disappointment to me after James has previously proved his worth, producing his wife <b>Robin Beck's</b> own album and the more recent <b>House Of Lords</b> releases. So something has clearly gone wrong here.<br /> The sound quality really does take away from my personal enjoyment of the songs. I have however, seen a lot of very favorable fan responses for the album, so it seems production quality is not as important to some as I thought it might be. To me though, it is.<br /> <br /> For example – the sound on the opening lyrically reflective anthem <font color="#ffff00">Lay It All On Me</font> is really quite hollow and the mix is totally dominated by a thumping overbearing bass line. Then on the next track <font color="#ffff00">Sacred Heart</font> (great melody), the bass is still there, but there is almost no drum sound at all and the audio sounds as if it is coming from an AM radio.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Day In The Sun</font> sees the full rhythm sound return – but the sound is still thin, giving the album a real up and down approach. But what a song. A clearly positive anthemic melodic rocker, Day In The Sun sees James in great voice and features a fine melody.<br /> The mid-tempo pure keyboard filled AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Believe In Me</font> has a terrible drum sound again, but is another wonderfully moody melody and another favourite of mine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You're So Bad</font> is a nice hands in the air type feel good AOR song as is the keyboard heavy <font color="#ffff00">Don't Come Near Me</font> – but again, the sound is so muddy, some enjoyment is taken away.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let It Shine</font> is another feel good, moody song filled with keyboards.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">She's All the Rage</font> is more or less a House Of Lords song, but with worse production.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sincerely Yours</font> is infectiously catchy, but sounds utterly buried in a tunnel such is the hollow sound. Almost unlistenable, which is a shame. James' vocals sounds like they were added via that AM radio again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shot In The Dark</font> sounds a little better and is another memorable chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Welcome to Your Future</font> sounds like it has programmed drums all the way through and even then, they are mixed way down. But again…another quality song.</font><br />   <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 liken this album to <b>Bob Catley's</b> famous (for the wrong reasons) <font color="#00ffff">Spirit Of Man</font> release. Great songs, but unlistenable production and to this day I still can't listen to it.<br /> Same goes here – 11 compelling and wonderfully melodic songs that James sounds great on, but almost unlistenable in places. A travesty as the performances and songs deserve better.<br /> I'd love to hear this whole album re-recorded. Then I could give it a 95. Terrific melodies, songs and style, but that production, not good enough in 2013. </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> Rude Awakening<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Meet The Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lay It All On Me</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, Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jorge Salas, Jimi Bell, Shelby Stewart:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>BJ Zampa, David Sherman:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robin Beck:</b> Background Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jeff Kent:</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>James Christian</b> - Rude Awakening<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kouse Of Lords</b> - House Of Lords</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> Lay It All On Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sacred Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Day In The Sun <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Believe In Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're So Bad <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Come Near Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She's All the Rage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sincerely Yours<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shot in the Dark <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome to Your Future<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>John Waite</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live - All Access</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">No Brakes 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/johnwaite-liveallaccess.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> Digital / Online</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.johnwaitethesinger.com" target="new">John Waite</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">The legend returns with a new live album – a follow up to 2010's live release <font color="#00ffff">In Real Time</font>. But this time around we have a different band in tow. Bassist <b>Tim Hogan</b> remains, joining in now is guitarist <b>Keri Kelli</b> and drummer <b>Rhondo</b>. A tight little outfit is on show here.<br /> There's only 8 tracks on offer – roughly half the length of a full JW live show, but they are 8 great songs.<br /> And what's better – this is about as raw and live as it comes. A straight feed from the show itself, with no overdubs. Big credit to the recording engineers – this set sounds amazing – really loud and in your face, but without some of the naturally occurring sonic flaws live albums can have. And John's lead vocals are really superb here – powerful and crystal clear.<br /> I like the fact we have basically 8 album cuts here, the nitty gritty of what makes <b>John Waite</b> such an engaging artist.<br /> Kicking off is <font color="#ffff00">Change</font>, the marvelous lead track from one of melodic rock's most consistent and brilliant debut solo albums (<font color="#00ffff">Ignition</font>).<br /> Then we get a taste of the current album in <font color="#ffff00">Better Off Gone</font> – quite simply one of the best John Waite songs ever written. And is sounds great in this raw, electric, engaging format.<br /> The also brilliant <font color="#ffff00">If You Ever Get Lonely</font> (now a verging hit song from country band <b>Love and Theft</b>), shows John's powerful and unique vocals off nicely.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Head First</font> delves back into the 70s with <b>Keri Kelli's</b> guitar adding a nice raw, hard edged approach that I loved with John's first few solo records.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In Dreams</font> sees things stripped back to an intimate level, with some emotional vocals piercing the atmosphere of the recording.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mr. Wonderful</font> is another classic cut from the Ignition album and sounds great again here with Keri killing it on guitar – complete with a nice long solo intro.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Evil</font> is another masterpiece track from the <font color="#00ffff">Rough & Tumble</font> album. Honest to God, it is a serious injustice that this song wasn't a hit single. With <b>Matchbox Twenty</b> all over the radio and their guitarist <b>Kyle Cook</b> partnering with John on the album version, the pure commercial aspect of this song and its killer hook is undeniable. This rawer, heavier live version is a treat.<br /> And closing the album is one of John's best hard rockers – the double timed rocker <font color="#ffff00">Saturday Night</font> – the lead track from the classic <font color="#00ffff">No Brakes</font> album. This is a great version too, extended and energetic – wonderful to hear it included in the live set.</font><br />   <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 that's a wrap, so to the negatives – well, there is only 1 really. It's such an enjoyable set of songs; to have only 8 to feast upon seems cruel! This is primarily a digital release, so the physical copy is a no-frills CD Single style slip cover only. That's ok, a full jewel case would have been nice, but perhaps when there is a second live release (as John has commented upon), perhaps there will be a deluxe CD featuring tracks from both, fully packaged.<br /> But for now – all John Waite fans need this now. A wonderfully powerful and engaging live recording, featuring some great songs from the Waite catalogue. </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<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Real Time (Live)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rough And Tumble<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live: All Access</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 Waite:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Keri Kelli:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rhondo:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tim Hogan:</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>All JW Fans</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> Change <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better Off Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If You Ever Get Lonely <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Head First<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Dreams<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mr. Wonderful<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evil <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Saturday Night <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>Pat Travers Band</b> <font color="#ffffff">Can Do</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">FRCD608 </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/pattraversband-cando.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Sean Shannon & Pat Travers</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Classic 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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">I'm neither here nor there with Canadian guitar great <b>Pat Travers</b>. His musical legacy is already enshrined for life in the hearts of classic rock connoisseurs. His bluesy tinged classic guitar driven rock n roll has won the hearts of many fans from as far back as the mid-late 70s when the <b>Pat Travers Band</b> was first formed. The first incarnation of that band in fact featured <b>Pat Thrall</b> and <b>Tommy Aldridge</b> in the lineup.<br /> He's released music very consistently throughout his career and this is his first release for <b>Frontiers Records</b>.<br /> There are no big names accompanying Pat here – he is well and truly the star of the show. Now when I say star, it is with regret that I use the term lightly as Pat has well and truly seen better days as a vocalist. His rough and raspy vocals here aren't going to appeal to a lot of folks.<br /> Thankfully his guitar playing hasn't suffered any as he blasts his way through 10 new bar room rockers and a couple of covers – the most noticeable being <font color="#ffff00">Here Comes The Rain</font> again by the <b>Eurythmics</b>. Not a bad cover in the sense that it turns the song on its head a little.<br /> There are some decent rocking tunes on here and even a couple of more melodic numbers. But the biggest issue I have here is the production quality. Simply not good enough.<br /> The album sounds rough and almost unfinished in places, especially the lead off track.<br /> The affair has a live in the studio feel, but so does the sound quality. The drums sound pretty thin, the guitar at times distorted and overall the mix just sounds muddy.</font><br />   <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 combination of rough vocals and a raw production makes this a pretty hard album to listen to and I doubt I'll ever come back to it now I've been through the review process. I'd say that means this is for established 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</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <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.pattravers.com" target="new">www.pattravers.com</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>Pat Travers:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kirk McKim:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sandy Gennaro:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rodney O'Quinn, Sean Shannon:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Doug Bare, Carl Cleaver:</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>70s Pat Travers</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> Can Do<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Up / Give It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Diamond Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Long As I'm With You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Time Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wanted (That Was Then / This Is Now)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Armed And Dangerous<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here Comes The Rain Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep Calm & Carry On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dust & Bone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waitin' On The End Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Red Neck Boogie</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Indicco</b> <font color="#ffffff">Karmalion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">New Venture 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/indicco-karmalion.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Indigo Balboa</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-allies.com/" target="new">www.avenue-of-allies.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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>Indicco</b> is a Spanish melodic rock project that features the duo of <b>Indigo Balboa</b> (vocals) and <b>Paco Cerezo</b> (Guitars, ex 91 Suite). The band is completed by <b>Antonio Muñoz</b> (ex-91 Suite) on bass, <b>Lean Martinez</b> (ex-91 Suite) on drums and <b>Angel Valdegrama</b> on keys.<br /> So with the pedigree of the great <b>91 Suite</b> fresh in your mind and <b>Mark Spiro</b> and <b>Jimi Jamison</b> appearing in duet form on several tracks, high hopes were established for this release.<br /> Those high expectations are not quite met however. There are some definite positives within the album and it is a nice example of pleasant 80s influenced melodic rock. But it doesn't match the output of <b>91 Suite</b>.<br /> The production here is one main issue. In the eyes of some, no matter the quality of the songs, it would never be a world class release or compare to the mighty 91 Suite because of this.<br /> The sound is quite muddy in places and the guitars in particular are buried on the bass heavy mix.<br /> Song wise the lead track <font color="#ffff00">Crying</font> does impress. Second track <font color="#ffff00">Days Of Wine And Roses</font> shows some flaws in the vocals of Indigo. The heavy accent and pronunciation of some lyrics really stands out unfortunately. When lined up against the great <b>Jimi Jamison</b> on three tracks, that is only further highlighted.<br /> I hate saying this, as there is passion and conviction in the performances and the guys deserve credit for that. And for the most part, the songs themselves are all consistently strong mid-tempo and ballady AOR/melodic rock songs.<br /> But simply put, the production quality just isn't going to give the bigger players a run for their money. <font color="#ffff00">Leaving Me, All About You</font> and the Jimi Jamison featured <font color="#ffff00">Ride The Wave</font> are the best of the consistent songs.</font><br />   <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 star guests and an acclaimed lineup, but not quite the album it could have been with a couple of short comings letting the quality of the material down. Investigate before purchase unless you just have to collect everything Jimi Jamison appears on, even if his role here is fairly small. </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> Karmalion</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>Indigo Balboa:</b> Vocals and Additional Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paco Cerezo:</b> Guitars and Additional Keys<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lean Martinez:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Antonio Muñoz:</b> Bass and Additional Keys<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Angel Valdegrama:</b> Keyboards<br /> <br /> + Guests Tim Pierce, Mark Spiro and Jimi Jamison</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> Crying <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Days Of Wine And Roses <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All About You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wrong<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel So Good<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Voice Of The Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leaving Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Grateful<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Moonlight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride The Wave <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feel No Shame<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>Bret Michaels</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cashing In With Friends</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/bretmichaels-jamminwithfriends.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> No One</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> Far Too Long</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Cash In</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.bretmichaels.com" target="new">Bret Michaels</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="#06bcf9" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>10%</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">Utter crap. Purely and simply….shit. Even worse, as at least shit can be used for fertilizer. Composting this release would be akin to dumping a 50 Gallon drum of highest quality Chernobyl soil into your veggie patch.<br /> This type of collaboration release really is the lowest form of musical intelligence. Frankly, I'm amazed that Michaels found yet another excuse to roll out the same tired old songs for yet another run. Note to Bret – no one wants to hear these songs again, ok?<br /> Take for example <font color="#ffff00">Nothing But a Good Time</font>. Not only is this version devoid of any energy or signs of life, but he has rapper <b>Lil Jon</b> cannibalize any hint of a chorus melody. My ears are still pissed off with me. Just because you hung out with the dude on <i><b>Celebrity Apprentice</b></i> doesn't mean you need to make music with him. Didn't <b>Meatloaf's</b> last CD teach you any lessons?<br /> And <font color="#ffff00">Sweet Home Alabama</font>? Oh yeah…there's a song that is never covered elsewhere – let's do that!<br /> I could go on, but frankly – if you need to read any further evidence to decide if this release is for you, then you deserve it.<br /> The production is beyond shiteous. The singing is horrendous. The songs are the same tired old craptastic tunes as featured on Bret's last 4 releases and the energy level rates about as high as his latest foray into getting laid on reality TV.<br /> This is an insult to fans, an insult to all the guests rounded up to appear – seriously – how did he do that? Is Michaels really owed that many favors? </font><br />   <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 – embarrassing. Embarrassing for all involved. Stunning that it took this may people to make an album this epically bad. One of the worst releases by a major artist that I have reviewed in the last 15 years. </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">Bullets & Booze</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Triage 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/bombayblack-bulletsandbooze.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 61</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.bombayblackmusic.com" target="new">Bombay Black</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">It wasn't until I was recently lining up music from those appearing at MRF3 that I realized I hadn't reviewed this gem of an album. Shame on me! So, rectifying this situation now, I can wholeheartedly recommend <b>Bombay Black's</b> latest opus as another essential piece of the BB puzzle.<br /> The band's fourth album sees them continuing to deliver some quality American melodic hard rock, backed with fabulous production and an ear splitting rhythm section.<br /> The band's bombastic anthems backed with layers of harmony vocals have won them a lot of fans over the years and this will only enhance their reputation as a very consistent and reliable band.<br /> The 15 tracks of <font color="#00ffff">Bullets & Booze</font> are every bit as engaging as past efforts and every bit as lyrically biting. That's my favorite aspect of the BB style. Their self-depreciating attitude, their funny lyrics and the unique way they deliver salvo's preaching bad nights out, lost love and jilted heroes of the dating scene.<br /> All done with high energy guitar riffing and sing along anthems that stick in your head forever.<br /> On this album we have the groove driven <font color="#ffff00">Helluva Time</font>, the opening heavy rocking <font color="#ffff00">Queen Of Denial</font>, the hilarious lyrical groove of <font color="#ffff00">All The Same In The Dark</font>, the 80s riff-friendly <font color="#ffff00">Bad Boy</font> and the killer slamming groove of <font color="#ffff00">Love Like This</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Dragon Tattoo</font>.<br /> The band's sense of humor even flows through to the CD packaging. I'm sure those with the CD already have found what I'm talking about.</font><br />   <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"> These guys know how to make an album sound great, so all you need is the songs and Bullets & Booze has 15 fun time hard rockers that are infectious and engaging.<br /> Another great album from a very consistent band that deserve a lot more attention…and more timely reviews by yours truly. But it's never too late – check this one out asap! </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> Mercy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anger Management<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Psycho Magnet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love You to Death<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullets & Booze</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 Johnson:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Justin Velte:</b> Guitars, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rob McCauley:</b> Drums, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ty Sims:</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>US Hard Rock fans</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> Queen Of Denial <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock 'n Roll Pain Train<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Helluva Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Same In The Dark <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Boy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Honey Lemon Kisses<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Room For Emotion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Me Be<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Like This <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dragon Tattoo <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullets And Booze<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Another Picture<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The One You Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> That's The Way It Is (At A Rock 'n Roll Show)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Single Drop<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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Magnus Karlsson's Freefall</b> </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">FRCD607 </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/magnuskarlsson-freefall.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>Manus Karlsson</b> has one of the best guitar sounds in the business. He's also a fine all-round musician and songwriter and we can't forget producer too.<br /> So any new project from the Swedish Guitar God is welcomed in my world. His debut solo album comes some time after a flurry of projects were delivered for his label Frontiers. The trilogy of <b>Allen/Lande</b> records were superb, <b>Starbreaker</b> was also amazing, then there was <b>The Codex</b> and his original (underrated) band <b>Last Tribe</b>.<br /> Now he stands alone, taking a break from guitar work in Primal Fear.<br /> This solo record could almost be classed a 'greatest hits' affair, as he gathers nearly all of his former collaborators to join him on 12 cracking melodic metal songs.<br /> You get the very best of all past Karlsson works in one perfectly recorded album with a monster sound and some even bigger songs. Interestingly, the mixing of the project was left to drummer <b>Daniel Flores</b>, who has done a superb job also.<br /> <br /> This is a monster sounding album. The opening metal shred duo of <font color="#ffff00">Free Fall</font> (lead vocals: <b>Russell Allen</b>) and <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> (lead vocals: <b>Ralf Scheepers</b>) are just classic, but it's the melodic sounding <font color="#ffff00">Heading Out</font> that gets my attention even more so. The man himself takes up lead vocals and I have to say, he sounds great! What took you so long Magnus?<br /> Folks should then prepare to have their senses blown away with what must be in the running for ballad of 2013 with the <b>Tony Harnell</b> sung track <font color="#ffff00">Stronger</font>. What an amazing track…and what an incredible vocal. Magnus chimes in with some truly inspired guitar soloing.<br /> <b>Rick Altzi</b> takes us back to the metal with the pounding <font color="#ffff00">Not My Saviour</font> (I prefer Rick here than on <b>Masterplan</b>); which is followed by possibly the most commercial anthem of the album - <font color="#ffff00">Us Against The World</font> (lead vocals: <b>David Readman</b>, sounding awsome).<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Our Time Has Come</font> is a replay of <b>The Codex</b> sound with <b>Mark Boals</b> on vocals. He sounds terrific.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ready or Not</font> has Magnus back on vocals and sounding great. Another very commercial sounding metal track, followed by a reunion with his former <b>Last Tribe</b> band mate <b>Rickard Bengtsson</b> on vocals…on a track called <font color="#ffff00">Last Tribe</font>!<br /> Fellow Swede <b>Herman Saming</b> from prog-metal outfit <b>A.C.T.</b> joins Magnus on the prog-friendly pompous metal track <font color="#ffff00">Fighting</font>, which features a driving hook filled chorus.<br /> Another pretty commercial and fast flowing metal song <font color="#ffff00">Dreamers & Hunters</font> features <b>Mike Andersson</b> and Magnus himself finishes up the album on vocals for <font color="#ffff00">On Fire</font> – another really enjoyable vocal and another great chorus driven song.</font><br />   <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 winner for all fans of Magnus and his various projects and for fans of the singers involved – which is pretty much the same fan base by my estimations!<br /> So if you know Magnus' style and have anything that he has delivered in the past – jump on this one for a fix of melodic metal 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</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <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> Allen/Lande<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Codex<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Starbreaker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freefall</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>Magnus:</b> Everything Else<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>Everyone Involved</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> Free Fall <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heading Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stronger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not My Saviour<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Us Against The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Our Time Has Come<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ready or Not<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Tribe <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fighting<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreamers & Hunters<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On Fire <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>Jorn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Traveller</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">FRCD606 </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/jorn-traveller.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 & Trond Holter</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Dio</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</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">It is officially time to notify <b>Jorn</b> that he has a problem. I shouldn't have to restate my love for Jorn's voice – but I will. It's awesome. Or at least, it was awesome.<br /> As of this release, I'm handing back by Jorn Fan Club card. He has a very distinct possibility of becoming a parody of himself.<br /> I'd just about given up on Jorn even before this release. Each album has simply become a repeat of the last as he stubbornly holds onto the idea he is <b>Ronnie James Dio's</b> brother from another mother.<br /> There is too just may issues to address. But I'll try.<br /> - His albums plod incessantly. There is little variation in pace.<br /> - The dark heavy tone of the music mirrors Dio too closely.<br /> - <font color="#00ffff">Lonely Are the Brave; Spirit Black, Bring Heavy Rock to the Land</font> and now <font color="#00ffff">Traveller</font> are essentially all the same album. Dark, heavy, plodding.<br /> - There is far too much other crap released in-between albums. Since <font color="#00ffff">The Duke</font> in 2006 we've had three 'best of' releases (<font color="#00ffff">Symphonic</font> being one of those and the best easily); three live albums and two covers albums! That's 8 additional albums on top of 4 studio albums. Spend some time away writing the best album you can Jorn. Stop bothering with all the padding.<br /> - His vocals have been steadily deteriorating over this same period. There is far too much yelling and growling on his albums. Where is the God-like voice that soared over the two <b>Masterplan</b> albums…<b>Ark</b>…<b>Milennium</b>…and his early solo albums. The melodic edge has all but evaporated.<br /> <br /> I had hopes for <font color="#00ffff">Traveller</font>. A new band stepped in. Now I'm pissed off at those guys too. Guitarist <b>Trond Holter</b> and bassist <b>Bernt Jansen</b> (both of <b>Wig Wam</b>) should have brought back the best in <b>Jorn</b>, but they too have succumbed to Jorn's way of delivering the same old formula of previous albums.<br /> Yes, there are a few great tracks on here that show promise – the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Overload</font> chugs along pretty well and the more uptempo <font color="#ffff00">Traveller</font> impresses, as does the faster still <font color="#ffff00">Widow Maker</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Legend Man</font>.<br /> But <font color="#ffff00">Make Your Engine Scream, Cancer Demon, Carry The Black</font> (black...again?), <font color="#ffff00">Monsoon</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Man Who Would Be King</font> just plod in that chugga chugga chugga style that just bores the shit out of me.<br /> Demons…the colour black…crows…kings…it's all done done done Jorn. It's time for a radical overhaul of your approach to songwriting and it's not just me stating this – the chatter has become a chorus of pleases from your fanbase.<br /> The time has come to think carefully about the next album and where to from here.</font><br />   <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 I hadn't heard that past 3 albums I'd rate this more highly. But <b>Jorn's</b> sound and style needs such a radical overhaul that even a pretty decent album like this falls into the predictable formula that is all too familiar and largely uninteresting to a legion of fans that are as frustrated with Jorn as I am. </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">World Changer</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-outtoeverynation.p3">Out To Every Nation</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-theduke.p3">The Duke</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-unlockingthepast.p3">Unlocking The Past</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-thegathering.p3">The Gathering</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lonely Are The Brave<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dio<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Symphonic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Traveller</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>Trond Holter, Jimmy Iversen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Willy Bendiksen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bernt Jansen:</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</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> Overload<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cancer Demon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Traveller <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Widow Maker <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make Your Engine Scream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Legend Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carry The Black<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rev On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monsoon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Man Who Was King<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>Black Star Riders</b> <font color="#ffffff">All Hell Breaks Loose</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/blackstarriders-allhellbreaksloose.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> 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.blackstarriders.com" target="new">Black Star Riders</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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">There is probably as much debate surrounding the name of this band than there is the actual music on it. Better known as the touring lineup of modern day <b>Thin Lizzy</b>, it was decided not to use the name to record new material (or was it a legal matter that they couldn't in the end?). Either way – I and just about everyone else it seems are happy with the fact.<br /> So it is impossible not to bring <b>Thin Lizzy</b> into this despite the fresh name and the sound within this album is more or less lifted from Lizzy's glory days.<br /> Of course it is guitarist <b>Scott Gorham</b> who stands alone as the only actual member of the acclaimed <b>Thin Lizzy</b> with <b>Phil Lynott</b>. Still, the sound of this album is so authentically Lizzy, I makes me ever the more curious as to why Gorham only has a hand in writing 4 of the album's tracks.<br /> The majority are written by frontman <b>Ricky Warwick</b> and second guitarist <b>Damon Johnson</b> (Brother Cane, Alice Cooper).<br /> Major props to <b>Ricky Warwick</b> here – I've always been a fan of his with <b>The Almighty</b> and his recent solo work, but he has totally captured the spirit and energy of <b>Phil Lynott</b> with his vocals and the band in the songwriting.<br /> Enjoyment of this album is will depend on your outlook. Me….I'm taking it on face value for what it is – a tribute to Thin Lizzy – just with fresh songs and attitude.<br /> And I think fresh is the best description of this. The <b>Kevin Shirley</b> production has once again captured the band in a raw, live, no frills style, but without some of the all-too-prominent bottom end sound that the producer gets criticized for at times.<br /> <br /> The songs – very enjoyable to my ears. Totally immersed in the 70s and true to the classic rock sound of the original <b>Thin Lizzy</b>.<br /> The upbeat and catchy <font color="#ffff00">Bound For Glory</font> for example could easily have been a part of Thin Lizzy's “Greatest Hits', as could the Celtic strains of <font color="#ffff00">Kingdom Of The Lost</font> – giving me a reminder of the great <b>Gary Moore</b> in the process.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Kissing The Ground</font> is straight out of 1975 (as is most of the album) and the storming <font color="#ffff00">Valley Of The Stones</font> has a little Almighty attitude buried deep in there.<br /> It took a few spins, but I'm really digging this album and it's not necessarily because I am a card carrying Thin Lizzy fan club member.<br /> It's partly because I'm reminded of <b>Gary Moore's</b> solo rock albums which I love and I think <b>Ricky Warwick</b> is outstanding here.<br /> And the flow of the album is just so smooth. The 45 minutes goes by in a flash, closing with the brilliant 6 minute more reflective blues number <font color="#ffff00">Blues Ain't So Bad</font>.<br /> And I must give credit to <b>Jimmy DeGrasso's</b> drum work on the album - a real pleasure to listen to. </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 name issue or no name issue - the end result is a great 70s blues based retro-rock album. Everyone contributes and the main source of the albums strength is the quality of the song writing. The production style is also perfect for what the album is trying to achieve. I really enjoyed this, more please.</font><br />   <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> All Hell's Breaking Loose</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>Ricky Warwick:</b> Vocals, guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott Gorham, Damon Johnson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimmy DeGrasso:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marco Mendoza:</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>Thin Lizzy</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Moore</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ricky Warwick</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 Hell Breaks Loose <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bound for Glory <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kingdom of the Lost <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bloodshot<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kissin' the Ground <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hey Judas<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hoodoo Voodoo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Valley of the Stones <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someday Salvation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Before the War<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blues Ain't So Bad <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>Tom Keifer</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Way Life Goes</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Merovee 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/tomkeifer-thewaylifegoes.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Keifer</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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 / 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.tomkeifer.com" target="new">Tom Keifer</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">The first thing I noticed about this album was just how good it sounds. The guitar sound is so clean and up in the mix and the overall production is fabulous. It's just a really great sounding record.<br /> It's amazing that it has taken the Cinderella frontman so many years to get this album done considering the relative lack of activity from his band.<br /> But vocal problems aside – it's finally here and I think the majority would have to say that it was worth the wait.<br /> So what to expect from a solo <b>Tom Kiefer</b> album? He was the main man behind the majority of the Cinderella material, so would this simply be an extension of that band?<br /> In short – no. It's a more musically adventurous record that explores a retro theme revolving around Tom's bluesy rock n roll roots in the 70s – <b>The Stones, Rod Stewart</b> and <b>Small Faces</b> to name a few.<br /> But there are some contemporary elements in there too – a little of the bluesier side of <b>Cinderella</b> and even a couple of tunes that could almost be country hits given an extra twang/tweak.<br /> It's basically a very organic and earthy feeling album. Very genuine and despite several different sounds and styles within, the album flows cleanly and is very consistent. In short – it suits Tom's vocals and style.<br /> On the rocker side of the ledger you have the feel good uptempo opener <font color="#ffff00">Solid Ground</font>, the bluesy swagger of <font color="#ffff00">Cold Day In Hell</font>; the guitar driven <font color="#ffff00">It's Not Enough</font> and the darker, more contemporary <font color="#ffff00">Welcome To My Mind</font>.<br /> On the softer side comes the great country tinged <font color="#ffff00">A Different Light</font> and the excellent heartfelt power ballad <font color="#ffff00">Thick And Thin</font>. The track that follows <font color="#ffff00">Ask Me Yesterday</font> is another quality mellow earthy tune.<br /> <b>Rod Stewart</b> comes to mind with the “flowery” <font color="#ffff00">The Flower Song</font>, which closes a mid-album 4 track mellow streak that in other circumstances could be deemed too much. But it works here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mood Elevator</font> kicks things back into high gear with a flourish of guitars.<br /> The Rolling Stones in their heyday come to mind with the classic 70s sounding <font color="#ffff00">Ain't That A Bitch</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Babylon</font> is a bluesy rocker that closes the album much like it started.</font><br />   <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 so many years in the making – I had pretty low expectations to be honest, be that fair or not. But the album has far exceeded my highest expectations and I'm pleased to say that Tom and band have really delivered a knockout album here.<br /> Sounds amazing, songs are of the highest quality and the style really matches the attitude.</font><br />   <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 Way Life Goes</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">Not Listed</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</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>70s Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Small Faces/Rod Stewart</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> Solid Ground <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Different Light <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Not Enough <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold Day In Hell <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thick And Thin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ask Me Yesterday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fool's Paradise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Flower Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mood Elevator<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Welcome To My Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Showed Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't That A Bitch <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way Life Goes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Babylon<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>Masterplan</b> <font color="#ffffff">Novum Initium</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV 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/masterplan-novumnitium.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Roland Grapow</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.masterplan.de" target="new">Masterplan</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>76%</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">Mixed reviews floating around for this one and I can understand why. I'll have to side on the negative I'm afraid. This band really has tried the patience of fans. After two killer albums back to back, the band lost vocalist <b>Jorn Lande</b>, delivered a much weaker album with <b>Riot's Mike DiMeo</b> singing; then went back to Jorn only to deliver another weak album and now – they are onto vocalist number 3 in only 5 albums.<br /> This time around we have <b>Rick Altzi</b> fronting the band. Not only do we get a vocalist with a much different approach and sound to that of <b>Jorn</b>, but the band has changed up their style somewhat.<br /> This isn't nearly as pompous and bombastic as the first three records. This time around it is derived from a more straight forward driving metal sound with Altzi screaming at full capacity for much of the record.<br /> I don't mind him as a singer, but here I don't think he fits <b>Masterplan</b> at all and the songs quite frankly, just aren't as good as they should be from such veteran musicians.<br /> But that all said – there are many that will dispute my view as the style change has found itself some new fans.<br /> It's not all doom and gloom though. <font color="#ffff00">Keep Your Dream Alive</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Black Night Of Music</font> are classy metal tunes; <font color="#ffff00">No Escape</font> is cool and the closing title track is an epic 11 minutes. The album in general is a more concise statement than the longer albums of the past.</font><br />   <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 a lot of the enjoyment of this album hinges on the simple fact of whether you appreciate the singer and the style. I think <b>Masterplan</b> were a far more unique outfit on the first two classic records. Now I think they sound far less original and are now simply just another standard European metal 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> Masterplan<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Aeronautics<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mk. II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Time To Be King<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mk. 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"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Altzi:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roland Grapow:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Marthus Skaroupka:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jari Kainulainen:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Axel Mackenrott:</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>Rick Altzi</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Masterplan</b> - Mk II</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> Per Aspera Ad Astra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep Your Dream Alive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Night Of Magic <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Betrayal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Escape <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pray On My Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Earth Is Going Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Return From Avalon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Novum Initium<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 1492<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear The Silence<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>Timo Tolkki's Avalon</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Land Of New Hope</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">FRCD600 </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/timotolkkiavalon-thelandofnewhope.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Tolkki</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Symphonic 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>81%</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">It's probably taken me too long to get into this album for me to do an about face and proclaim my love for it. It's a very select release I feel – you either have to be a die-hard <b>Timo Tolkki</b> fan, or a general fan of bombastic rock opera's, where shredding takes as much importance as the vocals and 'plot' of the album.<br /> <font color="#0000ff">Avalon</font> is tremendously well produced and executed. The performances are great and the sound top notch. And the vocals of <b>Russell Allen</b> on his two main tracks are brilliant.<br /> But this isn't much of a 'chorus' album and therefore it take a dedicated mind to sit through and listen from start to finish each time - especially with so much going on musically.<br /> The star of the album in my mind is <b>Elize Ryd</b>, who has a beautiful voice – I must check out her work in <b>Amaranthe</b>.<br /> <b>Rob Rock</b> also delivers power and finesse with his three lead vocals. </font><br />   <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"> Its fast, it's furious, it's a flurry of vocals and guitars. It's intense. Lots of positives there, but at the same time, it isn't overly accessible and takes a lot of time to get into.</font><br />   <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> Timo Tolkki's 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>Michael Kiske, Elize Ryd, Rob Rock, Russell Allen, Sharon Den Adel, Tony Kakko:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Timo Tolkki:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Holzwarth:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jens Johansson, Derek Sherinian, Mikko Härkin:</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>Timo Tolkki</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> Avalanche Anthem <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A World Without Us <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Enshrined in My Memory<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In the Name of the Rose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Will Find a Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Magic of the Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To the Edge of the Earth<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Sing You Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Land of New Hope<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>FM</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rockville</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Membran/Riff City 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/fm-rockville.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> FM</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.fmofficial.com" target="new">FM</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">They are just great aren't they? Leaders in the British AOR sound, <b>FM</b> return with their second post-reformation album – and another cracking slice of fun, feel good melodic rock. And what's more it is part of a two album set. <font color="#00ffff">Rockville II</font> will be reviewed shortly.<br /> Here, the band manage to be themselves, sound just like you'd expect an <b>FM</b> album to sound like, but still manage not to repeat themselves or sound stale.<br /> This is just <b>FM</b> being <b>FM</b> – that means a selection of harmonious, feel good melodic rock with equal doses of guitar and keyboard/organ, all driven by the powerful and unique voice of <b>Steve Overland</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Only Foolin', Tough Love, Crave, Better Late Than Never</font> – all classic 'up' FM songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Show Me The Way</font> reveals more of the band's soulful side; <font color="#ffff00">My Love Bleeds</font> is classic 80s without ever sounding dated; and <font color="#ffff00">Story Of My Life</font> is a passionate belter of a ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Crosstown Train</font> rocks and <font color="#ffff00">High Cost Of Lovin'</font> is another fine melodic rock song to close the album.<br /> I love the fact that the album was written collectively by 'FM'. The guys have a unity that keeps them fresh and energized and it shows throughout this record.</font><br />   <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"> Maybe not quite as brilliant as their comeback Metropolis album, but quality as always and an absolute must for fans of <b>Steve Overland</b>, the band's back catalogue or just those that live by the British AOR sound these guys do so well. </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>Fair Warning</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sundancer</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV 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/fairwarning-sundancer.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> Fair Waring</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.spvrecords.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">I really like these guys and I'm pleased to say that I think this is one of the band's better albums. But for the life of me, I still don't understand why they have such a muddy sound. Especially with the guitars. The rhythm section is kind of a rumble too. It's the band's trademark sound yes – but with each album I continually think things could be so much better with a better production style. Nice crisp guitars and an audible bass line…<br /> But – to the music at hand. Good songs here. Solid album from start to finish, perhaps a bit long at 61 minutes and 14 tracks. 50 would have been more impactful I think.<br /> Vocalist <b>Tommy Heart</b> is in fine voice though and the perforamnces within can't be questioned.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Troubled Love</font> is a solid opening track, bathed in guitars and swirling keyboards and the big riffing <font color="#ffff00">Keep It In The Dark</font> is classic <b>Fair Warning</b>.<br /> But the 5 minute ballad <font color="#ffff00">Real Love</font> is a bit of a momentum killer at track 3. Not a bad song as such, just out of place in my view.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hit And Run</font> well and truly gets things going again quickly and the flow of <font color="#ffff00">Man In The Mirror, Natural High</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Jealous Heart</font> is great.<br /> Stand out tracks in the second half include the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Send Me A Dream</font>, the anthemic duo of <font color="#ffff00">Pride</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Get Real</font> and the storming <font color="#ffff00">Cool</font> to close the album at high speed.</font><br />   <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 set of songs here and an album that I think most Fair Warning fans are going to be pretty happy with straight away. One of the band's best albums overall, but that production style is I think holding them back from real greatness.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Last Autumn's Dream</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ten Tangerine Tales</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Bad Reputation</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/lastautumnsdream-tentangerinetales.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Last Autumn's Dream</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/JP</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.badreputation.fr" target="new">Bad Reputation</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">I really dig these guys – they are so consistent in delivering a fresh album each year for their Japanese label. Trouble is – there is no PR outside Japan and their European deals (different for almost every album) seem to be devoid of any kind of push and these albums just disappear without a trace after a few weeks.<br /> This is album number 10 for the band! It's a little bit rawer this time around and isn't one of their better produced affairs. Nor does it feature their best material.<br /> But the glorious voice of <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> is still a joy to listen to and the band sure knows how to deliver some pristine Scandi-AOR when they are on song. <font color="#ffff00">Pickin' Up The Pieces, The Man I Used To Be</font> and <font color="#ffff00">New York Rain</font> are killer. <font color="#ffff00">Lie To My Heart</font> is pretty good also. The retro styled <font color="#ffff00">For You</font> is raw, but likeable.<br /> The closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">My Final Love Song</font> is as passionate as always.<br /> But the slight style change here means there's a few fillers. Missing the boat here is the funky 2nd Look; the programing filled <font color="#ffff00">I Will See Through You</font>; plus the confused <font color="#ffff00">It's Magic</font> and their cover of the <b>Sweet</b> track <font color="#ffff00">Rebel Rouser</font> is well out of place.</font><br />   <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 bad, but not essential either. One of only a couple of mis-steps by this band, which over 10 albums is pretty damn good. Where to from here will be interesting. Established fans of the band and Scandi-AOR fans will enjoy as always.</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>Hardcore Superstar</b> <font color="#ffffff">C'Mon Take Me On</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Spinefarm</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/hardcoresuperstar-cmontakemeon.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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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 / Sleaze</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.hardcoresuperstar.com" target="new">www.hardcoresuperstar.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">If you disregard the stupid intro track, this album blows out of the speakers at 500 miles per hour and doesn't let up for the next 45 minutes. It's thoroughly in your face, over the top and glorious!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">C'mon And Take Me</font> is fast, <font color="#ffff00">Above The Law</font> is furious and one of the anthems of the year; <font color="#ffff00">Won't Take The Blame</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Dead Man's Shoes</font> are as commercial as the band gets. In fact, for all its intensity, this is a pretty commercial record all around.<br /> It used to be the hallmark of Los Angeles, but now it's the Swedes that dominate the glam/sleaze realm and this album is on top of the heap.<br /> For all fans of <b>Ratt, LA Guns, Motley Crue</b> and <b>Hanoi Rocks</b>. </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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bill Leverty</b> <font color="#ffffff">Drive</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Leverty 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/billleverty-drive.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> Bill Leverty</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.billleverty.com" target="new">Bill Leverty</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</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>Firehouse</b> guitarist <b>Bill Leverty</b> delivers another solo outing while the rest of the world wait (im)patiently for Firehouse to record something new. This wasn't my ideal idea of new music from the talented Leverty – an all-covers affair featuring classic rock tunes from the way back days of <b>Creedence Clearwater Revival, Little Feat, The Ohio Players, Three Dog Night, Eric Clapton, Edgar Winter, The Guess Who, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan</b> and <b>Rare Earth</b>.<br /> Bill's gruff voice suits the material here and I must say I'm impressed in the methods he uses to rock up the material. There is definitely some fine shredding guitar moments here. And some fine tunes – but not all work for me and it will all depend on the taste of the listener to whether you like the whole album or only parts of.<br /> Personally I really like <font color="#ffff00">Fortunate Son, One, No Time</font> and <font color="#ffff00">I Just Want To Celebrate</font> (funky goodness).<br /> I hate <font color="#ffff00">I Shot The Sherriff</font> (but then again I always have), the funky <font color="#ffff00">Fire</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Ricky Don't Lose That Number</font> (I know…it's a classic, but I've never liked the song). Those are personal taste issues though.<br /> Somewhat of a mixed bag song wise, but really well produced, expertly played of course and fans of Bill should have no trouble appreciating the authenticity of the project.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Axe</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live 2012</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">NEH 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/axe-live2012.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> Bobby Barth, Mark Pinske, Ben Watts</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.nehrecords.com" target="new">NEH 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">Maybe not the original lineup, or even close, but with <b>Bob Harris</b> and <b>Bobby Barth</b> fronting the band and a quality team including keyboardist <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> behind them, Axe live at <b>Sweden Rock Festival</b> in 2012 was a treat for all – despite the heavy rain during the band's set.<br /> This is a DVD/CD combo pack which is great value for money. Even better than the DVD looks great and the audio recording is nice and clear.<br /> I generally hate digipacks and this packaging is very simplistic (actually it's barren, not even adding a track list), so that is disappointing, but the music within is thankfully much better quality.<br /> Definitely one for Axe fans to check out – both Bobby and Bob sound great – Bob Harris in particular is a fantastic vocalist.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Voodoo Circle</b> <font color="#ffffff">More Than One Way Home</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/voodoocircle-morethanonewayhome.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.voodoocircle.de" target="new">Voodoo Circle</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>77%</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">German rockers <s>Whitesnake</s> <b>Voodoo Circle</b> are back for their second album <font color="#00ffff">Slide It Crying In The 1987 Tongue</font>. Vocalist <b>David Readman</b> (Pink Cream 69) may front a <b>Whitesnake</b> tribute band, but that's no excuse for the absolute blatant plagiarizing of the late 80s Whitesnake sound here.<br /> Most of the classic Whitesnake album <font color="#00ffff">1987</font> could be transposed into the songs on this album. From the screams, the riffs, the arrangements and even the lyrics….it's all here. But sadly – just not done nearly as well.<br /> The album may be produced extremely well – this has a monster sound, but the songs lack the warmth of the album they are imitating and to be honest, simply aren't as good.<br /> Considering how much the band take from those original Snake songs, it's a wonder they didn't take the choruses as well – as that's what is missing here.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>S.U.N.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Something Unto Nothing</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/sun-somethinguntonothing.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> S.U.N.</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.somethinguntonothing.com" target="new">S.U.N.</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">Without the confines of her role judging <b><i>Canadian Idol</i></b>, the original Queen of Rock <b>Sass Jordan</b> gets to show how it's done for the many that followed her. What a powerhouse vocal performance on this, the debut SUN album.<br /> Classic rock at its best here – mixing 70s Led Zep styled attitude with contemporary hard rocking riffs delivered by drummer extraordinaire <b>Brian Tichy</b>. Yes, the drummer is a killer guitarist also, delivering some earth shattering riffs while Sass wails over the top.<br /> The album is all riffs, groove and screams….and is funking great!<br /> It's an acquired taste in parts – the heavy retro vibe and the bluesy hard rock won't be for all, but anyone that appreciates no frills honest, hard driving retro rock will appreciate this.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Taste</b> <font color="#ffffff">Taste</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/taste.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> Taste</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Westcoast/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">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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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>Taste</b> was formed by the two brothers Christoffer and Felix Borg the day before new year's eve in 2009. First, Taste was only supposed to be a side-project, because both also had played in other groups. But it didn't take long before the Swedes decided to turn Taste into a full band.<br /> <b>Taste</b> apply their own take on the Scandi keyboard/synth sound of the 80s. Not quite AOR, not quite pop, not quite melodic rock. And not quite good enough to make any inroads in this congested melodic scene.<br /> The production is a little thin and the keyboards really date the album – but not in a timeless way. And I'm not sold on the vocals either – despite a few catchy pop/rock tunes included here. It all just sounds a little lightweight and under produced. </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>Shylock</b> <font color="#ffffff">Walking Tall</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/shylock-walkingtall.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> Shylock</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <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">The two masterminds behind <b>Shylock</b>, Matthias Schenk (vocals) and Johannes Amrhein (guitar), have been working together for more than two decades. With their band mates Achim Thiergärtner (drums) and Bernhard Schwingenstein (bass) they continue to follow their roots and show us again their strengths on album number six which is entitled <font color="#00ffff">"Walking Tall"</font>.<br /> The German hard rockers come back with a very good sounding album that delivers just what is expected of them – upbeat, commercial European hard rock, with nothing but riffs and rhythm taking no prisoners over the course of 50 minutes.<br /> If you like German hard rock – yes, they have their own sound (think Bonfire, Scorpions, Fair Warning), then you will like this. There's nothing here that hasn't been heard before, but it's done well and it's an enjoyable ride. And best of all – it's produced very well and sounds great cranked up loud. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/thunderfuck-starfucker.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Thunderfuck & The Deadly Romantics</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Starfucker</font> – Indie</b> – Oh boy…you can just see the look on my face can't you? The name and the title say it all. And if in doubt, the horrendous cover art will complete the job. I review this for one reason only – to save the ears of innocent rock fans all over the world. The music here would make the worst bar room band in Bumstool, Idaho think they had a shot at the big time. It would give hope to deaf, talentless, drunk dope smokers around the world… Awful vocals, shiteous production, and banal lyrics that make <b>Kiss</b> sound like Shakespeare and a name that makes <b>Big Cock</b> sound like the best band name ever.<br /> The band was annoyed that <b>Versailles Records</b> didn't use their cover of <b>Def Leppard's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Have I Ever Needed Someone So Bad</font> – I know why - they turn it into a soulless, emotionless, pointless punk rock song and is perhaps the biggest insult any fine song has ever had bestow upon it since the <b>Bulletboys</b> shot <font color="#ffff00">American Pie</font> right through the temple. I can't believe the band wasted postage on sending me this. What a pile of steaming shit. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" bgcolor="#69d8fc" height="140"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>-1%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/supertramp-tributesongsofthecentury.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Various Artists</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Songs Of The Century - Tribute To Supertramp</font> – Purple Pyramid</b> – Thankfully these tribute albums seem to be on their way out. Only because every single artist has been covered and some twice. This Supertramp one comes courtesy of <b>Billy Sherwood</b> and at least features some big names. <b>John Wetton, Mickey Thomas, Richard Page, Joe Lynn Turner, Rod Argent</b>. Production quality is pretty decent as you'd expect. Likeability will depend on your appreciation of <b>Supertramp</b> (that counts me out sorry). I thought <b>Mickey Thomas</b> on <font color="#ffff00">The Logical Song</font> would have been better, but <b>Richard Page</b> on <font color="#ffff00">Give A Little Bit</font> is as good as hoped. Still not as good as <b>Tony Harnell's Morning Wood</b> version though. <b>John Wetton</b> on <font color="#ffff00">Breakfast In America</font> was good. <b>JLT</b> on <font color="#ffff00">Bloody Well Right</font> is average. In the end…pretty disappointing overall. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>48%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/vanhalen-tributeversailles.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Various Artists</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Take Your Whiskey Home - A Tribute To Van Halen</font> – Versailles Records</b> – Versailles Records have become nothing but a clearing house for repetitive tribute albums and this is their latest. This one is their second <b>Van Halen</b> tribute along with separate <b>David Lee Roth</b> and <b>Sammy Hagar</b> tributes. I think the well has run dry folks. There isn't much here to talk of. A lot of indie rock bands that you'll never hear of, with varying results from bad to ok plus a couple of 'name' covers – <b>Rowan Robertson</b> appearing on <font color="#ffff00">And The Cradle Will Rock</font> plus <b>Takara w/JSS</b> on <font color="#ffff00">Dance The Night Away</font> (an old old track) and <b>Stephen Pearcy</b> on a horrible <font color="#ffff00">Runnin' With The Devil</font>. Avoid. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>35%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/thewho-tributewhoareyou.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Various Artists</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Who Are You - A Tribute To The Who</font> – Cleopatra Records</b> – Another tribute featuring <b>John Wetton</b> (on the boring <font color="#ffff00">Eminence Front</font>) and <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> (on a more rollicking <font color="#ffff00">The Seeker</font>) and a few fresher names such as <b>Joe Elliott</b> (singing a very emotive <font color="#ffff00">Love Reign O Er Me</font>); <b>Gretchen Wilson</b> (rocking <font color="#ffff00">Who Are You</font>). <b>Derek Sherinian, Carmine Appice, Rick Wakeman, KK Downing</b> are among the musicians that help sings like <b>Iggy Pop, Donnie Van Zant, Peter Noone</b> and others kill a bunch of great classic rock tunes. Another waste of time I'm afraid. Great songs…mostly terrible versions. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>40%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/giantx-1.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Giant X</font> – <font color="#00ffff">I</font> – SPV</b> – German modern hard rockers <b>Giant X</b> make their debut with this album of diverse (mainly) fast paced, in your face rockers. Trouble is…I don't really get their “thing”. The vocalist reminds me of Bonfire's <b>Claus Lessmann</b> at times, when he isn't screeching too much. The style is all over the show though. A ballad straight after a head-kicking opening track and then an effects filled modern rocker is certainly a confusing message to send the listener. There are some strong moments here, but generally speaking I'm not getting into the singer or the confusing modern metal production effects mixed with old school Euro-metal. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/littlecaesar-americandream.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Little Caesar</font> – <font color="#00ffff">American Dream</font></b> – Another album that deserves more words, but it has been out some time now and I need to get it reviewed. Best point here is singer <b>Ron Young</b> who sounds his usual impressive self. The music isn't too far removed from what you'd expect from the band who delivered that classic debut album all those years ago. This time it might be classed as a little more loose and rugged, but certainly still drenched in hard riffing blues driven rock. The guys still manage to pull off a credible ballad too. I like the consistency and energy of this record, even if it isn't one to rely on choruses to drive the message home. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/icaruswitch-rise.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Icarus Witch</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Rise</font> – Cleopatra</b> – Cleopatra took a break from releasing tribute albums and re-recorded nonsense to sign these guys. The US traditional mettalers deliver a great sounding, high energy and rather melodic album, considering the tempo and the heaviness factor. There is a mix of traditional US metal and more contemporary production sounds on this, making it perfect for “crossover” appeal. It deserves a bigger review, but don't let the lack or words deter you – melodic metal and US hard rock fans should absolutely check this out. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/russdwarf-wireless.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Russ Dwarf</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Wireless</font> – Smoothline Ent.</b> – Unplugged albums are squarely aimed at fans of the artists involved and can be a hit and miss affair. But when they get it right it really is refreshing to hear some of artists' songs on offer in a fresh new light. Russ – frontman for cult Canadian rockers <b>Killer Dwarfs</b> has fortunately nailed his acoustic excursion. 10 tracks from the past, no frills – just a voice and some acoustic backing. Very nice and Russ sounds great still. Well worth checking out for fans of the Dwarfs. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/highroadeasy-drive.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">High Road Easy</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Drive</font> – Indie</b> – This indie release from German independent melodic rockers HRE came out late last year, but deserves to be included, late as it may be! It's hard sometime to review these sorts of releases alongside bands that have 20 times the money and 50 times the resources to get their albums sounding right, and even then they sometimes fail. So much respect to <b>High Road Easy</b> who have recorded an enjoyable set of tunes for this, their second album. The songs here – melodic rock in nature – are simple, yet diverse enough to require repeat listens. The production is a bit thin – the programmed drums the main factor. Importantly, the songs are worthy of repeat listens. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/svenhorlemann-standingtall.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Sven Horlemann</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Standing Tall</font> – Indie</b> – Sven, guitarist from <b>High Road Easy</b> has more recently released this guitar instrumental album. Well, mainly instrumental. There are three likable lead vocals on the album (from Klaus Schmuck), which mixes things up a little. Production has improved from the High Road Easy album, which means things are heading in the right direction. The guitar playing can't be faulted – a relatively restrained display of picking and plucking that avoids the shredsphere for a more melodic structure that's appreciated by this reviewer. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> <br />  </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>Burning Rain</b> <font color="#ffffff">Epic Obsession</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">FRCD601 </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/burningrain-epicobsession.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Doug Aldrich & Keith St. John</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU JP US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">Groove baby, groove! Guitarist <b>Doug Aldrich</b> revs up his <b>Burning Rain</b> project for the first time in 13 years to prove once again that he is the king of the hard rock groove and is well and truly on top of his game in recent years. Since joining <b>Whitesnake</b> in 2001 Doug has given the David Coverdale vehicle a real shot in the arm. Now it's time to once again show why he is one of the premier guitar players in the world.<br /> Together with writing partner and singer <b>Keith St. John</b>, Doug delivers 12 smoking hard rock tunes that are going to appeal to all fans of the recent Whitesnake albums as well as the two earlier <b>Burning Rain</b> albums. With <font color="#00ffff">Epic Obsession</font>, the band's sound has been tweaked slightly into a more solidified hard rock groove from the bluesier sound of the first two albums.<br /> That's not to say that the blues don't play an important role here again – it's just wrapped up in some truly momentous guitar riffs.<br /> <b>Keith St. John</b> has a unique voice that takes the listener back to the 70s, as does the vibe of the album overall. He may be an acquired taste for some – but I've never heard him sing better than right here. <font color="#00ffff">Epic Obsession</font> is part Whitesnake, part 70s rock groove and part <b>Led Zeppelin</b> - but all class.<br /> From the bombastic groove of <font color="#ffff00">Sweet Little Baby Thing</font>, to the double timed hard rocking <font color="#ffff00">Till You Die</font>, to the Led Zep inspired slower <font color="#ffff00">Heaven Gets Me By</font>, the album goes from strength to strength.<br /> Highlights are plentiful - the layered riffing on <font color="#ffff00">Pray Out Loud</font>, with its fast rhythm; the dual personality of the acoustic driven, sentimental <font color="#ffff00">Our Time Is Gonna Come</font>, which turns Zeppelinesque retro rock; to the sensual groove of <font color="#ffff00">My Lust Your Fate</font> to the commercial ballad <font color="#ffff00">Made For Your Heart</font>.<br /> The album closes with the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">When I Believe In Love</font>, which is as sentimental as it comes. I could imagine David Coverdale singing this.<br /> The two bonus tracks are a cover of Led Zep's classic <font color="#ffff00">Kashmir</font> – you know this suits the guys down to the ground. Then there is the acoustic <font color="#ffff00">Heaven Gets Me By</font> which is a nice change of pace from the earlier full band version.<br /> St. John reminds me of a raspier <b>James Christian</b> in places on this album. There's a certain feel of the <font color="#00ffff">Sahara</font> album from <b>House Of Lords</b> at times.</font><br />   <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 winner here. One of the biggest sounding albums in a while, with <b>Doug Aldrich</b> simply on fire. An absolute must for fans of recent <b>Whitesnake</b> and the past <b>Burning Rain</b> and <b>Bad Moon Rising</b> albums. </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 Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pleasure To Burn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Epic Obsession</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>Keith St. John:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Doug Aldrich:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Starr, Brian Tichy:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sean McNabb:</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>Whitesnake</b> - Bad To Be Good<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Keith St John</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Doug Aldrich</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> Sweet Little Baby Thing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Cure<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Till You Die <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Gets Me By <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pray Out Loud<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Our Time Is Gonna Come <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Hard To Break<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Lust Your Fate <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Made For Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride The Monkey<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out In The Cold Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Can I Believe In Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kashmir<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Gets Me By (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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Poodles</b> <font color="#ffffff">Tour De Force</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">FRCD602 </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-tourdeforce.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Mats Valentin</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>The Poodles</b> come storming back after their <font color="#00ffff">Performocracy</font> album disappointed some with one of their best efforts yet. The last album was still rated highly by myself, such is my respect for what these guys do. But not everyone was sold on it. <font color="#00ffff">Tour De Force</font> is that much better though. It delivers a 13 track er, tour de force, filled with inspired anthemic rock n roll.<br /> The band captures the best elements of their 4 previous albums, with powerful vocals, some memorable guitar riffs and solos, but most importantly – the album is comprised of just great songs. Period.<br /> The head pounding <font color="#ffff00">Misery Loves Company</font> couldn't be a better introduction to the album with its great chorus, but what makes this album different from its predecessor is that it doesn't stop there. <font color="#ffff00">Shut Up!</font> is even better and bigger with an anthemic hook and chorus, followed by <font color="#ffff00">Happily Ever After</font>, which is all groove and a super intense, multi-layered chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Viva Democracy</font> is down and dirty, but still features a strong melody. Same goes for <font color="#ffff00">Going Down</font>, which rocks nice and fast.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Leaving The Past To Pass</font> is one of the band's best ballads to date; while <font color="#ffff00">40 Days And 40 Nights</font> is another big anthemic rocker with a melodic heart.<br /> The intensity continues for the remaining tracks, which is something the last album didn't do.<br /> The bonus <font color="#ffff00">En För Alla För En</font> may be in Swedish, but it seriously rocks and is a fitting close to a great energetic album.</font><br />   <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>The Poodles</b> are back on top and <font color="#00ffff">Tour De Force</font> should be a must buy for any fan of their previous work. Fans of the new breed of Swedish melodic hard rock bands also need this. The album needed to be good and the band delivered. It is arguably the band's strongest album 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> <a href="thepoodles-metalwillstandtall.p3">Metal Will Stand Tall</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thepoodles-sweettrade.p3">Sweet Trade</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thepoodles-clashoftheelements.p3">Clash Of The Elements</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Performocracy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tour De 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>Jakob Samuel:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Henrik Bergqvist:</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>Swedish 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> Misery Loves Company <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shut Up! <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Happily Ever After <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Viva Democracy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Going Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leaving The Past To Pass <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 40 Days And 40 Nights <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kings & Fools<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Miracle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Godspeed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now Is The Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only Just Begun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> En För Alla För En <font color="#ff0000">*</font><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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Laneslide</b> <font color="#ffffff">Flying High</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies 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/laneslide-flyinghigh.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Bruno Kraler</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-alies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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">I've been pretty hard on guitarist/writer <b>Bruno Kraler</b> for some of his past efforts in <b>Brunorock</b>, but that project's last outing finally showed real promise. That promise has now been fully delivered with <b>Laneslide</b>, Bruno's brand new vehicle featuring cult AOR vocalist <b>Frank Vestry</b>, with session star <b>John Billings</b> on bass and the always impressive <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> on Keyboards & Grand Piano.<br /> And you can't go wrong adding guests like <b>Bobby Altvater</b> - Rhythm Guitars, Backing Vocals; plus <b>Michael Bormann</b> and <b>Erik Mårtensson</b> on Backing Vocals.<br /> The awesome <b>Frank Vestry</b> turns in a great performance here – his melodic tone and strong vocals make the album. Don't expect a repeat of <b>Marchello/Vestry</b> though – this is a different beast. More melodic/AOR than the Danger Danger style of M/V.<br /> One thing I take from this album is just how well it flows along. From the opening anthem <font color="#ffff00">Flying High</font> to the more restrained AOR bliss of <font color="#ffff00">You Can Make It</font>; the groovy <font color="#ffff00">River Of Love</font> and the 1983 style of the keyboard heavy rocker <font color="#ffff00">Dancing Girls</font>, it's one track into another of fine old-school melodic rock and AOR.<br /> And I love the vocals on <font color="#ffff00">Understand</font> – a powerful, yet melodic tone I can't get enough of.<br /> Unusual to cover a <b>Laura Brannigan</b> tune (written for her at least), but she was an underrated pop/rocker in the mid-80s and I love those albums. So hearing <font color="#ffff00">Self Control</font> re-done is great.<br /> Only one ballad of the 10 tracks on offer and that is washed Away which closes the album. And it was worth the wait – it is beautiful piano lead ballad. </font><br />   <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 winner for <b>Frank Vestry</b> and a definite career highlight for <b>Bruno Kraler</b>. I hope this partnership will continue as the debut <b>Laneslide</b> album deserves to find some fans out there in AORland. Well worth checking out if you like old school 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> Flying High</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>Frank Vestry:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bruno Kraler:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dominik Hülshorst:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Billings:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio:</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>Frank Vestry</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brunorock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</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> Flying High <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hangin' Out Here<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Can Make It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> River Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancing Girls <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Understand <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Self Control <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look The Other Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Fight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Washed Away<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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Paris</b> <font color="#ffffff">Only One Life</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/paris-onlyonelife.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-alies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">Curious album this! Very very good…but curious! Why? Well, <b>Paris</b> is (not surprisingly) a French AOR project from the pairing of <b>Frédéric Dechavanne</b> (Vocals, Keyboards) and <b>Sébastien Montet</b> (Guitars) plus guests. But it may as well be tagged a <b>Newman</b> release, such is the influence of sound from British AOR star <b>Steve Newman</b>. Indeed, Steve appears on backing vocals here, but his influence is so pronounced on the record that I had to ask him if he co-wrote the songs also.<br /> Not so it appears, but he did state that Frederic is a self-proclaimed big fan of the Newman releases. That shines through here – in the style of the songs as well as their structure and the production sound. Now all that said – the influences are what they are and don't detract from the album in any way. In fact, if you are a fan of the <b>Newman</b> sound, this needs to be examined ASAP!<br /> The album is a very consistent and enjoyable affair – the song quality strong and the choruses are plainly defined and upon repeat listens, annoyingly embed themselves in your mind to the point of distraction. There aren't any fillers in sight (again, especially if you are a Newman fan) and the sound is very authentically keyboard and guitar driven mid-80s fare.<br /> Highlights are the great anthem <font color="#ffff00">South Of Love</font> and the opening feel good <font color="#ffff00">Dancing On The Edge</font>; the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Everytime You Walk Away</font>; the very catchy fast moving <font color="#ffff00">America</font>; <font color="#ffff00">Longer Than I Care to Remember</font> and the moody, feel good <font color="#ffff00">When The Lights Fade Away</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">For the Time Still to Come</font> is another quality ballad to close out the album.</font><br />   <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 vocal pronunciations may not be as clear as Englishman <b>Steve Newman</b>, but aren't an impediment to enjoying the album. Overall, this is a very consistent and highly enjoyable release, especially if you love British/European sounding keyboard lead 80s 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> Only One Life</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>Frédéric Dechavanne:</b> Vocals, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sébastien Montet:</b> Guitars<br /> <br /> With:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Mori:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Anna Portalupi:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Newman, Alessandro Del Vecchio:</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>Newman</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> Dancing on the Edge <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Should We Be Saying<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> South of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Every Time You Walk Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> America <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Longer Than I Care to Remember<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Clock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When the Lights Fade Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Handle With Care<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For the Time Still to Come<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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Charming Grace</b> <font color="#ffffff">Charming Grace</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/charminggrace.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Davide "Dave Rox" Barbieri</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-alies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">Interesting album this. It is one of those true “project” albums, featuring 400 special guests aiding one key person – in this case that being Italian singer <b>Davide Barbieri</b> (Wheels Of Fire). Appearing as guest musicians are the likes of: <b>Sven Larsson</b> (Street Talk, Lionville, Sapphire Eyes, Coastland Ride); <b>Peter Friestedt</b> (Williams/Friestedt); <b>Roberto Priori</b> (Danger Zone); <b>Stefano Lionetti</b> (Lionville); <b>Tom & James Martin</b> (Vega); <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> (Edge Of Forever) and more...<br /> Vocal wise is where it gets really interesting. Each track is in fact a duet between Davide and some very cool guests.<br /> Now the songs themselves are very good and very consistent. This is all very approachable, very commercial melodic rock/old-school 80s AOR, the type of songs that are the backbone of this site.<br /> However, the weak point of the album is in fact Davide's lead vocals. When by himself on <b>Wheel Of Fire</b> it's not so much an issue. But he has done himself a disservice here. When you line up against some of the best vocalists in the scene, there is every chance you are going to come off sounding second best. And that's what has happened.<br /> Compared to the likes of <b>Nick Workman, David Forbes</b> and <b>Moon Calhoun</b>, the heavily accented vocals of Davide stand out for the wrong reason. And the quality of the songs definitely drops off in the second half of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Everytime You Touch My Heart</font> - Duet with <b>Nick Workman</b> (Vega) and <font color="#ffff00">The Way You Feel Inside</font> Duet with <b>Moon Calhoun</b> (Michael Thompson Band) are both solid and enjoyable tracks. But it is <font color="#ffff00">Shining Light</font> - Duet with <b>David Forbes</b> (Boulevard) that is really quite superb, the melody is gold and the chorus is classic soaring, anthemic wonderfulness! And how good to hear <b>David Forbes</b> back in full voice? Wow.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Just Take My Hand</font> - Duet with <b>Gui Oliver</b> (Auras) is very pleasant also. Sweet natured AOR.<br /> A double dose of Italian AOR with <font color="#ffff00">Close Your Eyes</font> - Duet with <b>Michele Luppi</b> (Los Angeles, Secret Sphere). Sorry, but the accent overload is a bit much on this one.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Still Dreamin'</font> - Duet with <b>Thomas Lassar</b> (Crystal Blue) features a nice memorable chorus, but isn't as strong as some other tunes.<br /> More superstars of the Italian AOR scene on the feel good, easy going <font color="#ffff00">The Sound Of Your Heart</font> Duet with <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> (Edge Of Forever). Not bad, but those accents again!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Everybody's Broken</font> - Duet with <b>Josh Zighetti</b> (Hungryheart) features another strong, feel good chorus.<br /> The fine ballad <font color="#ffff00">Bring My Life Back</font> sees the great <b>Kimmo Blom</b> (Urban Tale) in control. It's been too long since we heard his divine voice on a big AOR ballad.<br /> The added bonus track is a fun upbeat cover of the <b>Belinda Carlisle</b> song <font color="#ffff00">Leave A Light On</font>. The accent of Davide doesn't quite work, but the female lead is compelling.</font><br />   <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 is probably a couple of tracks to long, there is 70 minutes of similarly styled and paced music here, so the tracks towards the end do tend to run into each other. Plus the heavily accented lead vocals in places are a little off-putting. But, a decent album with a few definite highlights for fans of European AOR. Awesome to hear <b>Moon Calhoun</b> and <b>David Forbes</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> Charming Grace</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> <a href="http://www.melodicrock.com/showcase/charminggrace.html" target="new">www.melodicrock.com/showcase/charminggrace.html</a></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 guest vocalists involved</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> Everytime You Touch My Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way You Feel Inside <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shining Light <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just Take My Hand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Close Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Dreamin'<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Sound Of Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everybody's Broken <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Answer Was You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Run Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through The Stars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Endless Flame<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring My Life Back <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leave A Light 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Vega</b> <font color="#ffffff">What The Hell</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Spinefarm</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/vega-whatthehell.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Vega</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 65</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.www.vegaofficial.com.com" target="new">www.vegaofficial.com</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">What The Hell? What the hell took the label so long to release this when it leaked online at the close of 2012. Shameful to have such a leak in the first place, but to then wait 4 more months to release this wonderful album officially should be a criminal offense. How many downloads in that time I wonder?<br /> Anyhow….it's here and it's great, so buy it.<br /> Britain's new Kings of AOR <b>Vega</b> have delivered what should be regarded as one of the year's best AOR releases. Rather than rest on the comforting sounds of their classy old-school debut, the lads decided to mix it up a little – contemporize their sound, add some production bells and whistles, beats and tweaks.<br /> And it works so well…nothing like hearing your favourite style of music modernized in the right way.<br /> Production is first class, mix is pristine and the energy palpable. And the songs – better than ever folks, with anthems left right and center here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">White Knuckle Ride</font> precedes another silly half minute intro piece (arrgh!), but makes up for it by being what you might describe as a perfect AOR anthem. And I just love the tone of <b>Nick Workman's</b> voice. Perfect for the material.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What The Hell</font> is as bombastic as the title suggests; <font color="#ffff00">Not There For You</font> is urgent and compelling; <font color="#ffff00">Cry</font> is simply melodically joyous and features a stand out chorus; <font color="#ffff00">Raise Ya Game</font> is where the guys turn about as modern as they get on this album, with beats and a groove based riff; <font color="#ffff00">Fade Into Flames</font> is a modern feeling sultry ballad; <font color="#ffff00">You Can't Run</font> is filled with beats and urgency and another strong vocal; <font color="#ffff00">Bless My Soul</font> is modern AOR at its best; <font color="#ffff00">She Walks</font> alone is another great little anthem; <font color="#ffff00">Turn It On</font> is perhaps one of the albums weaker tracks; <font color="#ffff00">Saviour</font> features a great vocal and a driving beat for what is a very moody track; <font color="#ffff00">It's Gonna Be Alright</font> is yet another strong song, but has other similar tracks like it on the album; <font color="#ffff00">Hands In The Air</font> is an absolutely melodic rock gem and deserved to be closer to the front of the album I think.</font><br />   <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"> 14 tracks and 55 minutes is a bit long I think. Drop two tracks (which too is always a very hard call for artists) and tweak the track sequence a little and you get a perfect modern feeling AOR album full of great performances, big vocals and layers and layers of production. But regardless of those suggestions, this is a must buy for fans of melodic rock at its most melodic. </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> Kiss Of Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What The Hell</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>Tom Martin:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Daniel Chantrey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Martin:</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>British Melodic Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kick</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>The Martin Brothers</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> Audeat Somniare<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> White Knuckle Ride <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What The Hell! <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not There For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cry <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Raise Ya Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fade Into The Flames <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Can't Run<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bless My Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She Walks Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn It On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Saviour<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me it's Gonna Be Alright <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hands In The Air <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>VindictiV</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cage Of Infinity</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/vindictiv-cageofinfinity.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Stefan Lindholm</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <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">The third in a trilogy of metal albums to be reviewed in this set – <b>Vindictiv</b> probably sits between the other two (Tainted Nation and Giuntini Project). Had the band retained the same style and feel of their first two albums, it probably would have won out easily. But <font color="#00ffff">Cage Of Infinity</font> is a different beast entirely for Swedish guitarist and band founder <b>Stefan Lindholm</b>.<br /> Gone is vocalist <b>Goran Edman</b>, gone is the hard rock/symphonic melodic metal sound.<br /> In place is new vocalist <b>Marco Sandron</b> (finding a home after an all too brief stint with <b>Eden's Curse</b>) and a new metallized sound more reminiscent of <b>Judas Priest</b>.<br /> The emphasis on chorus and melody has gone too – not that the album is devoid of these elements, but they now play second fiddle to frantic riffing and over the top screaming vocals.<br /> I'm not sold on this change of direction to be honest. But to make the most of the album, some patience is required and the mood must suit. Not much point putting this on in the early mornings unless you feel the need to pummel your brain into working condition for the day.<br /> Surprisingly, the songs within the album aren't overly long. They are all pretty concise and get to the point immediately. The point being big vocals and big riffs.<br /> Upon further listening some of the chorus passages become more prominent and the album makes a little more sense. Still, it's a long way from the catchy elements of the original two albums.<br /> There are some fretalicious moments here that would impress <b>Yngwie Malmsteen</b> and Marco delivers a truly menacing vocal performance.<br /> But this is well and truly for fans of European metal. Song highlights include the title track <font color="#ffff00">Cage Of Infinity</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Astronaut</font>, plus the frantic <font color="#ffff00">Resistance</font> and closing crunch of <font color="#ffff00">Screaming For Answers</font>.</font><br />   <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 one of those change of direction equals change of quality situations. The name doesn't necessarily represent what came before it, so some will be disappointed. But now that a new style is in place, some new fans might find themselves quite impressed. In short – test drive before purchasing. </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> Vindictiv<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ground Zero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cage 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>Marco Sandron:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stefan Lindholm:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Henrik Hedman:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nalle Påhlsson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pontus Larsson:</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>Marco Sandron</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Swedish 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> The Chosen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cage of Infinity <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down In a Black Hole<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Choices<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Astronaut <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Human Emergency<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Resistance <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Orphans<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Son Of Fate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Encounter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Screaming For Answers <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>Giuntini Project</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">Escape 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/giuntiniproject-iv.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Aldo Giuntini</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">It's been a while between drinks for Italian guitarist/composer <b>Aldo Giuntini</b> and for that matter, same can be said for vocalist <b>Tony Martin</b>, after appearing on what seemed to be a dozen albums in as many weeks a few years back. Good to see this pair reunited again for another round of classic style 80s metal. Roll out all the <b>Black Sabbath</b> and <b>Rainbow</b> references you can, add in Tony Martin's unmistakable vocals and you can sum up what the album offers.<br /> Not much has changed from any of the other 3 <b>Giuntini Project</b> albums, dating back to 1993. This is a good sounding album. Tony sounds in strong voice, which I was beginning to worry about last we heard from him. The production is solid – typical in your face guitars and louder than loud approach.<br /> I think the drum sound could have had a more impressive crunch. They appear a little tinny at times and the constant cymbal crashing can be distracting. The pace varies around the album – perhaps a little too much in the mid-tempo plod style that some metal albums take on. But there are some rousing screamers on here.<br /> The only thing that I would state about <font color="#00ffff">IV</font> is that the album – if anything – is unsurprising. It's very solid yes, but also very safe and somewhat predictable in its direction and execution.</font><br />   <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"> 13 tracks at 58 minutes with little variation in theme is probably a track or two too long for this album, but fans of the previous <b>Giuntini Project</b> releases and fans of <b>Tony Martin's</b> unmistakable voice will no doubt enjoy every note on offer here. Not for everyone, but it certainly does what it says on the tin. </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<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>Tony Martin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Aldo Giuntini:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roberto Gualdi, Fabiano Rizzi:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fulvio Gaslini:</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>Tony Martin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rainbow</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> Perfect Sorrow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born In The Underworld<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadow Of The Stone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cured<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Believe In Fortune<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If The Dream Comes True<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rise And Fall Of Barry Lyndon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring On The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not The Jealous Kind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Saint Or Sinner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Station: Nightmare<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How The Story Ends<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Truth Never Lie<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>Tainted Nation</b> <font color="#ffffff">F.EA.R.</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/taintednation-fear.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Tainted Nation</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> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.taintednation.co.uk" target="new">Tainted Nation</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">In a word – superb. This is a cracking, in your face, modern melodic metal album. I say modern, as it is naturally tuned into a contemporary sound, whilst still offering an equal dose of traditional British metal. With <b>Eden's Curse</b> drummer <b>Pete Newdeck</b> out front on lead vocals, his Ozzy-esque tone makes this is the best <b>Ozzy Osbourne</b> album since the stunning duo of <font color="#00ffff">Ozzmosis</font> and <font color="#00ffff">No More Tears</font>.<br /> For those wishing Ozzy had made those two albums into a trilogy of classic metal, <b>Tainted Nation</b> has done it for him.<br /> The all-star band comprising of Newdeck (Eden's Curse, Grim Reaper); bassist <b>Pontus Egberg</b> (The Poodles, Lions Share, Zan Clan); guitarist <b>Ian Nash</b> (Steve Grimmett, Lionsheart) and drummer <b>Mark Cross</b> (Outloud, Helloween, Kingdom Come) – deliver a debut album that uses every ounce of their prior experience to make a truly thunderous and energetic statement here.<br /> The pace barely drops below whirlwind for the entire album and by the end you should be exhausted from the playback. The classic/modern hybrid sound is as sonically destructive as you can imagine, but that doesn't mean there aren't any melodies. In fact, there are tons, making this album even more likeable for metal and hard rock fans that love to be blasted into space.<br /> The opening crunch of <font color="#ffff00">Dare You</font>, the swagger of <font color="#ffff00">Loser</font>, the fury of <font color="#ffff00">You Still Hang Around</font> and the almost anthemic melody of <font color="#ffff00">Your Only Friend</font> are just the beginning.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hell Is A Lie</font> is just as impressive when it comes to memorable hooks, and the fast and furious <font color="#ffff00">Never Promised You Anything</font> (featuring guest <b>Ted Poley</b> on some prominent backing vocals) is as commercial as anything Ozzy has released.</font><br />   <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 raucous debut album with an authentic heart and ton of great songs. The performances reflect the experience of those involved, but the energy within is more representative of a group of teenagers getting their first shot at the big time. Deserves to be heard by as many metal fans as possible. </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> F.E.A.R.</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>Pete Newdeck:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ian Nash:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Cross:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pontus Egberg:</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>Ozzy</b> - No More Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eden's Curse</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British 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> Dare You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loser <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Still Hang Around <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Like You Seem<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who's Watching You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Only Friend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hell Is A Lie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Forget Where You Came From<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Promised You Anything <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Haunted<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Tell Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Are You Waiting For<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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mike Tramp</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cobblestone Street</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Target 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/miketramp-cobblestonestreet.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Tramp</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Acoustic</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.miketramp.com" target="new">Mike Tramp</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">Stark. That's the word that comes to mind. Gifted songwriter <b>Mike Tramp</b> lays bare his soul with a very personal album of stripped back acoustic guitar driven songs on his new album <font color="#00ffff">Cobblestone Street</font>. Mike Tramp solo is probably an acquired taste at the best of times, so for him to record this, the “album he always wanted to do” is throwing down the challenge to his fans to appreciate or move on.<br /> Mike may be speaking from his soul here, but how many will be listening is something I'm not sure of.<br /> I for one like this album. I like just about everything Mike has done. But I don't love it in the same way I do his <font color="#00ffff">Recovering The Wasted Years, More To Life Than This</font> and the also awesome <font color="#00ffff">Stand Your Ground</font>.<br /> I don't love it, as it's not an album that can be played anywhere anytime, as I can do with his other solo material – and the <b>White Lion</b> albums for that matter.<br /> The sheer nature of this acoustic record lends itself to being a mood music piece. If the mood suits – perfect. If not, then some are going to look upon this as a cure for insomnia.<br /> When <b>Mike Tramp</b> is on point – he delivers like nobody else can. He has this ability to bare his soul in a heart crunching way. Songs that I think he nails here are the opening title track, <font color="#ffff00">Ain't The Life I Asked For</font>, the psychedelic <font color="#ffff00">Revolution</font> and Beatlesesque <font color="#ffff00">Find It In Your Heart</font>. The ballad <font color="#ffff00">What Are You Gonna Do</font> also resonates.<br /> Where I don't quite match the journey Mike is on is with the “too happy” <font color="#ffff00">New Day</font>, the slow duo of <font color="#ffff00">We'll Be Alright</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Angel Of Devil</font>.<br /> And the musical accompaniment around <font color="#ffff00">Once</font>, not to mention the lyrics, don't work for me either.</font><br />   <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 is one for certain tastes at certain times. And it's a little too long for the nature of the material. This album will produce some very divided opinions, but you have to respect Mike for always doing what is true to his heart. </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="reviewsusa.html">Capricorn</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="miketramp-recovering.p3">Recovering The Wasted Years</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="miketramp-moretolifethanthis.p3">More To Life Than This</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="miketramp-rocknrollalive.p3">Rock N Roll Alive</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rock N Roll Circuz<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Your Ground<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cobblestone Street</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 Tramp:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Soren Andersen:</b> Guitars, Keyboards, Bass, Drums, Harmonica</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 Tramp</b> unplugged </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> Cobblestone Street <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Caught In The Storm <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't The Life I Asked For <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Revolution<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We'll Be Alright<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angel Or Devil<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Find It In Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Are You Gonna Do? <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Once<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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Code Of Silence</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dark Skies Over Babylon</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Mausoleum</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/codeofsilence-darkskiesoverbabylon.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Logue</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.codeofsilence.co.uk" target="new">www.codeofsilence.co.uk</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Another newcomer to the scene here, but with some familiar names behind the scenes. British band <b>Code Of Silence</b> may call themselves melodic metal, but have melody in spades coming with each track and some very commercial songs featured on this, their very classy debut album.<br /> Fronted by Brazilian vocalist <b>Gus Monsanto</b> (Timo Tolkki's Revolution Renaissance / Adagio / Symbolica / Lord Of Mushrooms), and young virtuoso guitar player <b>Ben Randall</b> (Power Quest), the band wrote their album with producer <b>Paul Logue</b> (Eden's Curse), whose writing and production style is all over this album.<br /> Any and all fans of <b>Eden's Curse</b> are going to hear parts of their trademark sound throughout this album. Any number of songs like the pounding <font color="#ffff00">Sky Is Falling Down</font> could come from Eden's Curse.<br /> After a short intro, the head kicking opener <font color="#ffff00">Bitter Sweet Paradise</font> is simply layered in vocal melodies and features a killer chorus.<br /> This is quite an epic album – there are 11 tracks totaling over 60 minutes running time, with 5 tracks over the 6 minute mark. The first major epic is the slow building 7 minute heavy ballad <font color="#ffff00">Dark Skies Over Babylon</font>. Really quite superb.<br /> idnight <font color="#ffff00">Cathedral (Veritas)</font> features a nice dose of organ and some chopping riffs.<br /> The closing hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Here To Heaven</font> is another epic that builds to a shredding climax. Harmony vocals (again typical of Eden's Curse) are plentiful which add extra melody to the heavy nature of the songs.</font><br />   <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 quality release from a quality band – what better way to make your debut. Fans of <b>Eden's Curse, Ten</b> and moody British hard rock should all find plenty to enjoy here, with the album delivering some great intense, melodic heavy 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> Dark Skies Over Babylon</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>Gus Monsanto:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ben Randall:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Clelland:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>James Murray:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott McLean:</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>Eden's Curse</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>British 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> Omerta (Intro)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bitter Sweet Paradise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sky Is Falling Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tame The Tempest<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dark Skies Over Babylon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seventh Seal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Witches Of November <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Abyss<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Knights Of The Crimson Cross<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Caphedral (Veritas) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here To Heaven <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>Redrum</b> <font color="#ffffff">Victims Of Our Circumstances</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">RMB 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/redrum-victimsofourcircumstances.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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 / 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.myspace.com/redrumgr" target="new">Redrum</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Now this is a great album! The debut album from Greek rockers <b>Redrum</b> (with German vocalist <b>Michael Bormann</b>) was very good – but this is great! This is one of the best Bormann fronted albums I have heard since the <b>Jaded Heart</b> 1999-2004 classics.<br /> The band's second album does everything it should – it improves upon all elements of the debut – better production, better sound and mix and most importantly, even better songs. This is a great selection of European melodic hard rock, with Bormann in full control and the rest of the band delivering the power behind the voice.<br /> The album kickoff though gives me pause. Why bands use an intro of just 50 seconds in length is beyond me – I hate these – just add it on to the start of the first track!<br /> But besides that gripe, the opening track Scream sets things up, but it's the melodic joy of <font color="#ffff00">You Can't Buy No Hero</font> that really gets things moving.<br /> The near 6 minute acoustic backed <font color="#ffff00">Dust In Your Eyes</font> might be a little misplaced in the sequence of the album, as the mid-tempo song is followed by the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Empty Promises</font>, which kills the momentum of the opening two tracks. Thankfully it's a great ballad though with a strong vocal melody driving the song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Pokerface</font> is a stronger rocker (no, it ain't a cover of that tune) and <font color="#ffff00">Dirty White Boy</font> (no, not that song either) continues that trend.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Mother I'm Coming Home</font> is rock ballad with an epic feel, while <font color="#ffff00">Tear Down The Walls</font> cranks the album up again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Have A Nice Day</font> (no, once again, not that song) does have a <b>Bon Jovi</b> feel to it, especially with the vocals and the acoustic intro.<br /> The tile track has a certain groove to it and a good chorus.<br /> Closing with <font color="#ffff00">You're The Voice</font> (yes, it IS that song), the guys go out on a high, as you just can't screw up this great song. A great Bormann vocal closes the deal.</font><br />   <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 above average melodic hard rock record with solid production, engaging songs and some great typically enjoyable <b>Michael Bormann</b> vocals. The <b>Redrum</b> guys seem to have a pretty good handle on what they about and where they are going, so I hope the collaboration with Bormann continues into the future.</font><br />   <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> No Turning Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Victims Of Our Cicrcumstances</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<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Panos Baxevanis :</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hanos Sarketzis:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Kidd:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marco Grasshoff:</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>Michael Bormann</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Redrum</b> - No Turning Back</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 of Us<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scream <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Can't Buy No Hero <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dust in Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Empty Promises <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pokerface <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty White Boy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mother I'm Coming Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tear Down the Walls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Have a Nice Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Victims of Our Circumstances<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're The Voice <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>Kingdom Come</b> <font color="#ffffff">Outlier</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV 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/kingdomcome-outlier.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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">Captain Plod returns with yet another album of dreary sounding mid-tempo European hard rock. At least this time German mastermind <b>Lenny Wolf</b> mixes things up with a reworked music production style – modernizing his sound with effects, overdubs and heavy synth over the top of the usual slow, heavy guitar riffs and his painfully slow wailing vocals.<br /> Sound like a hater right? Actually, no. I really dig Lenny's vocal tone. I just wish he'd really take a look at the tempo of his songwriting and either ramp it up or bring in someone to help co-write.<br /> I adore the debut <b>Kingdom Come</b> (Kingdom Clone) album and its sequel wasn't too bad either. But after that Lenny took full control of the band and lineup, taking the band back to Europe and dropping his star lineup. These days he takes care of most elements himself, which is why the last few albums have all sounded exactly the same and all with the same depressingly slow pace.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">God Does Not Sing Our Song</font> is a dramatic song that I do like, but the pace…arghh, the pace! The second track almost breaks into a decent trot before Lenny pulls it back.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rough Ride Ralleye</font> is more programmed synth than anything else, a curious left turn.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Holy Curtain</font> is slow (of course), but I quite like the dramatic feel and the guitars are certainly in your face.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Trap Is Alive</font> actually breaks into a cantor, and isn't as imposing a track as the intensity of first half of the album. And it even features a chorus. Good stuff.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Skip The Cover And Feel</font> (what does that mean?!) however, heads straight back into plod mode as is <font color="#ffff00">Don't You Want To Wait</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Such A Shame</font> is one beat faster, but doesn't really deliver a chorus and the album closes with another song that doesn't really go anywhere as far as I'm concerned.</font><br />   <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 albums relatively concise 40 minutes of music feels more like 80 at the pace it goes at, which is my constant disappointment and issue with <b>Kingdom Come</b>. An interesting musical twist is lost in the frustrations of the tempo and again, choruses aren't really a strong point. </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>Wild Rose</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dangerous</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/wildrose-dangerous.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Rock</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">The <b>Andy Rock</b> fronted <b>Wild Rose</b> – Greece's answer to Bon Jovi circa 1984 are back for album number two. And they pick up exactly where they left off with their debut – back in 1984 with some old fashioned commercial hard rock.<br /> There is an equal dose of guitar and keyboard in play with these guys, with guitar riffs taking the more prominent position in the mix.<br /> I saw this album rated 10/10 on another portal and without wishing to cast dispersion upon that review, I simply don't hear anything remotely close to making this a review of similar standing.<br /> The band is competent and their songwriting does manage to deliver some songs that catch in your mind. There are some nice riffs, memorable keyboard fills and some choruses that stand out.<br /> The biggest compliment you could give this album is that it captures the era it pays homage to well.<br /> However, it doesn't deliver anything that stands out from the crowd, nor does it deliver what hasn't already been done many times previous.</font><br />   <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 doesn't shape as a must buy release, purely because there is so much completion out there and others have managed to be a little more unique and original.</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>Heartbreak Radio</b> <font color="#ffffff">On Air</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/heartbreakradio-onair.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Claes Andreasson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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/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">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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">Swedish AOR-lite/Westcoast <b>Heartbreak Radio</b> started off as a spinoff project from the band Last Autumn's Dream. LAD's <b>Michael Erlandsson</b> appears on vocals for 4 tracks, other vocalists include <b>Jim Jidhed</b> (1); <b>Pierre Weinsberg</b> (2) and a couple of others.<br /> Now for the project's second album, the musician lineup consists of <b>Mats Johannson</b> (Asia, Guitars), <b>Berra Holmgren</b> (Ace Of Base, Bass), <b>Peter Strandberg</b> (Jeff Scott Soto, Drums), <b>Johan Axelsson</b> (Keys).<br /> This is more Westcoast/pop than it is AOR. It's very lite on guitar, heavy on keyboards and synth and very very sweet.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Angelina</font> is a great little Westcoast song with a catchy chorus; <font color="#ffff00">I Will Love You</font> is a smooth ballad featuring a powerful <b>Jidhed</b>; <font color="#ffff00">Live Out Of Love</font> is more powerful and uptempo and you have to love Erlandsson's voice. Same with the poppy melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">My Heart's Just Missing You</font>.<br /> But elsewhere it's a little too polite for me. It's a little jazzy, very pop/soul and generally just too much happy juice being drunk by these guys. For someone who likes their music moodier and darker on most occasions, there's too much sugar here.</font><br />   <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"> Think <b>Jay Graydon, Chicago, George Benson</b> even…it's smooth. I don't think the song strength is quite there to convert me to the style on offer here.</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />  </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>Heaven And Earth</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dig</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Quarto Valley 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/heavenandearth-dig.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Dave Jenkins</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.heavenandearthband.com" target="new">H&E</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>Heaven And Earth</b> is the brain child of British guitarist <b>Stuart Smith</b>, a lifelong fan of Richie Blackmore, Deep Purple, Rainbow and all things classic rock. The first album under the H&E moniker featured the cream of the crop as far as vocalists go – <b>Glenn Hughes, Joe Lynn Turner, Richie Sambora, Bobby Kimball</b> (on the second pressing) and <b>Kelly Hansen</b>. The second album featured just <b>Kelly Keeling</b> on vocals and the following EP featured <b>Paul Shortino</b>.<br /> So it is no surprise to see that on the band's official third release, another vocalist is in the picture. This time it is <b>Joe Retta</b> - and what a find he is. With a raspy and soulful tone not unlike <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b>, Joe takes the material on offer here and makes it his own, with a powerhouse performance.<br /> The lineup has solidified also, with the great <b>Chuck Wright</b> on bass, <b>Arland Schierbaum</b> on Hammond B3, <b>Richie Onori</b> on drums and of course <b>Stuart Smith</b> at the helm on guitars.<br /> If the pedigree of these guys couldn't deliver a knock-out classic rock album, then no one could. Thankfully that isn't a problem.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Dig</font> makes a powerful statement that the band is back and better than ever.<br /> What I really love about this album is the authentic, analogue feel it has. That big 70s hard rock sound, filled with organ and authoritive guitar work that such bands has Rainbow and Purple featured. Not to mention a rhythm section to die for.<br /> The album takes a few listens to click – some of it on the first listen yes, but all great albums are ones that grow over time.<br /> <br /> After the expected pomp-friendly intro, the bravado of the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Victorious</font> takes control. The six minute track is everything you'd expect from H&E – big, authentic and filled with guitars and a pounding rhythm, plus that unmistakable organ sound that bands like Rainbow and Deep Purple brought to the mainstream.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Victorious</font> starts with a flourish before pulling back a bit, only to build as the songs goes on, with vocal discovery <b>Joe Retta</b> in full control. At some point he hands over to guitarist <b>Stuart Smith</b> who takes the song to another level with some inspired soloing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No Money, No Love</font> quickly follows on, with a more commercial feel and a more rapid pace. This is the most obvious track for a single and so it is. The song is great – a big authentic 70s rock song with a memorable chorus and layers of guitars and organ over a tight rhythm section.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Know What Love Is</font> is simply a monster ballad. Straight out of the Joe Lynn Turner song book, <b>Joe Retta</b> delivers a stunning vocal that takes the song where it needs to go. The emotion of the song is great and once again harkens back to a real old-school way of music.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Man & Machine</font> is a more simplistic statement, which does just one thing – it rocks. The hard driving beat of the song matches the subject matter – the car, and driving it fast. A big bluesy hard rock song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">House of Blues</font> is a long, slow rocking track that bases its sound heavily on 70s blues and once again that authentic Rainbow-esque style. It's not a ballad, nor a rock song; it's one of those organ drenched blues tracks that H&E are known for.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Back in Anger</font> is a good pace lifter after the long previous track. The guitar and organ swirl around each other and the rhythm section grooves. This is another great track for vocalist Retta and Stuart Smith delivers another great solo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Waiting for the End of The World</font> is the perfect sequel to the last track – moving down in tempo, but equally impressive in its 70s rock roots, complete with some Richie Blackmore style acoustic work and a driving chorus. The song has a certain darkness to it that appeals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sexual Insanity</font> is a moody song that builds, with some dramatic passages of music surrounding a charged chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rock & Roll Does</font> is one of the album's biggest rockers. It is certainly the fastest and features some great harmonica intermixed around the rest of the song's groove based tempo. A simplistic rocker at heart, a good fun addition to the album and well placed within the sequence of tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Day Like Today</font> is one of those oddball tracks that Heaven & Earth have managed to produce over time – again based on Stuart Smith's various influences of the 70s. This baroque style piano/vocal ballad, complete with acoustic guitars and mandolins, violins etc… I love it. Richie Blackmore would no doubt rate this is favourite song of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Good Times</font> continues a run of what I think are the album's best songs. This frantic paced rocker isn't as heavy as earlier tracks, but works so well. I love the percussion within this song, with emphasis on other things than the straight drum sound.<br /> And closing this epic album is the perfect epic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Live as One</font>. It runs Four and a half minutes, but feels like 8, as it builds from a slow start to a huge finish with Joe Retta delivering one of the best vocals of the album. This is a power ballad in the vein of Foreigner or Styx in the 70s, with a vocal orchestra blowing the song apart towards the end.<br /> It should have been longer!</font><br />   <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 <b>Heaven And Earth</b> return in their third incarnation in as many records, but this I think is the lineup that will stay together and build the brand that has previously suffered from a lack of momentum. They need to get out on the road and sell this material with some kick ass live performances. It's the only way to reach the masses these days, and this album deserves to be heard. But for those reading this site that know where to find good music already, don't hesitate to check out this marvelous slice of killer classic rock with a big 70s groove and a wonderfully produced set of songs. </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> Heaven And Earth<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Windows To The Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dig</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 Retta:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stuart Smith:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richie Onori:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chuck Wright:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Arlan Schierbaum:</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>Heaven & Earth</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Classic Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rainbow/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> Victorious <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Money, No Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Know What Love Is <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Man & Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> House Of Blues <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back In Anger<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting For The End Of The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sexual Insanity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock & Roll Does <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Day Like Today <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Good Times<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live As One <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>Steve Lukather</b> <font color="#ffffff">Transition</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Mascot Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">M7400 5 </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/stevelukather-transition.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Lukather & CJ Vanston</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> 2013</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.stevelukather.net" target="new">Steve Lukather</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">As a solo artist, guitarist, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, <b>Steve Lukather</b> has always walked diverse path, never turning in the same record twice.<br /> However, the man affectionately known as Luke has found a nice groove over the course of his last 3 solo records, with producer <b>CJ Vanstone</b> a key factor in creating a monster sound and some of the best produced and mixed records my ears have had the pleasure of knowing.<br /> The trilogy of records started with <font color="#00ffff">Ever Changing Times</font>, continued with <font color="#00ffff">All's Well That Ends Well</font> and now reaches to <font color="#00ffff">Transition</font>.<br /> And while it features the same musical base as the last album and that unmistakable high-tech, high class performance, this album has its own soul.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Transition</font> is to me, a far mellower vibe than we are used to with Luke. It's an introspective record that sees its author coming out the healthier side of a period of mourning. So the songs have their usual outstanding lyrical depth that few artists achieve and some soul searching moments are laid bare for all to witness, but some of the songs have a very positive energy to them, despite the mellower and laid back appearance.<br /> Even the album's opening epic, the title track <font color="#ffff00">Judgement Day</font>, has a slightly reserved feel to it. But the guitar work is nothing short of amazing and the biting lyrical content will have someone's ears burning.<br /> The funky <font color="#ffff00">Creep Motel</font> is similarly themed, with some terrific instrumentation giving it depth beyond the norm. Again the lyrics make you thankful you are not in the firing line, but that's what we love about Luke. Always honest.<br /> In <font color="#ffff00">Once Again</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Right The Wrong</font>, we find two of the best and most heartfelt ballads Luke has ever written. They run back to back and display some gut wrenching angst and the intense arrangements make them two outstanding tracks.<br /> The mostly instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Transition</font> features some stunning guitar work and leads into the more positively themed Last Man Standing, itself a sonically joyous tune, the pace more restrained.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Do I Stand Alone</font> is the albums only regulation uptempo rocker, with a great little pop chorus, making it one of the most instantly likable songs of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rest of The World</font> is a slow bluesy number that features another side of Luke and some stunning guitar work.<br /> Unfortunately I'm not that interested in the closing instrumental cover of <font color="#ffff00">Smile</font>, despite some fine string plucking from Luke.<br /> That closes the album for me with the weaker track, but the class within those songs has meant that this album has been on steady rotation now for 6 months, and few other albums can boast that claim.</font><br />   <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"> Lyrical depth and musical maturity, topped with some of the finest guitar playing of Luke's career, not to mention the soulful edge of his warm vocals. That's enough to sell me on this album once again. Another great addition to the Lukather story, even if it's a couple of tracks short of the classic that the last album was in my mind. </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> Lukather<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Candyman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Luke<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="stevelukather-everchangingtimes.p3">Ever Changing Times</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All's Well That Ends Well<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Transition</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 Lukather:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Valentine + Guests:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lenny Castro:</b> Percussion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Various:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>CJ Vanston, Steve Weingart:</b> Keyboards, Effects</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>Steve Lukather</b> - All's Well That Ends Well<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>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> Judgement Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Creep Motel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Once Again <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right The Wrong <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Transition <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Man Standing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do I Stand Alone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rest Of The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Smile<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>Covered Call</b> <font color="#ffffff">Impact</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/coveredcall-impact.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Covered Call / Mixed: Lars Chriss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">Let us never underestimate the joy that is listening to <b>Goran Edman</b> in full melodic rock vocal glory! Swedish rockers <b>Covered Call</b> come back with their second album, this time featuring <b>Goran Edman</b> at the helm, replacing fellow Swedish metal crooner <b>Thomas Vikström</b>.<br /> Without any exaggeration, the opening two tracks on this album represent the genre at its finest, with two of the most joyously melodic and compelling tracks of 2013 blowing the speakers apart. And those vocals! Melody in every word…<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lorraine</font> is simply a powerhouse anthem and <font color="#ffff00">When The Lights Are Out</font> is a mellower, yet equally engaging track, especially with the brilliant chorus.<br /> It just keeps on delivering with the great mid-tempo AOR anthems <font color="#ffff00">Think About All Times</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Look Into Your Mind</font>, plus the darker, more urgent and heavier <font color="#ffff00">Hold On</font> all just oozing melodies. And those vocals!<br /> And so it continues… I think every track is a winner, right up until there's a bit of a left turn on the last two tracks for some reason, which suddenly sees an earthier, rawer guitar driven sound immerge. Stop right there guys! You had it right on the rest of the album; don't feel the need for a change.<br /> The last 2 tracks are ok, but they don't match the melodic bliss of the rest of the album. I'll forgive them the experimentation as the rest is just so good.</font><br />   <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 just doesn't get better than this for fans of feel good Scandi-rock. Those holding out for a return of <b>Street Talk</b> will have to rely on this album to bring all the Goran edman AOR goodness that all musical collections should feature. Rich production, layers and layers of vocals and a nice mix of keyboards and guitar. Love 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> Money Never Sleeps<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Impact</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>Joel Carlsson, Morgan Rosenquist:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronny Svanströmer:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Loos:</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>Street Talk</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scandi MelodicRock</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> Lorraine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When The Lights Are Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Think About All Times <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look Into Your Mind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make A Wish<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Lasts Forever <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wake Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When I´m Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Goodbye<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>Bai Bang</b> <font color="#ffffff">All Around The World</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/baibang-aroundtheworld.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Assarsson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 35</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">What a difference 18 months can make. I panned the band's last album – the songs were ok, but the production was just horrible and ruined any chance of the record having any lasting power. In fact, I haven't played it once in the last 18 months.<br /> But, things are entirely different for this little beauty. The band has obviously spent a lot of extra time on songwriting and the production problems of the last album have been forgotten.<br /> This is a monster album for fans of anthemic, in your face melodic rock, with that <b>Def Leppard</b> style of layered harmonies and the Mutt Lange style production. What I didn't notice last time around, was that the vocals of singer <b>Diddi Kastenholt</b> have a distinct resemblance to those of the <b>Stage Dolls' Torstein Flakne</b>.<br /> So what I'm hearing here is <font color="#00ffff">Adrenalize</font> era <b>Def Leppard</b> with <b>Stage Dolls</b> lead vocals! It's quite a tasty mix to be honest. The album is completely over the top of as far as anthems and choruses and indeed energy also.<br /> The frantic pace of the first two tracks <font color="#ffff00">Everybody Everywhere</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Gonna Make It</font> will leave most folks out of breath.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Crazy</font> is slower, but no less catchy and a song names after their own moniker sees some Joe Elliott moodiness in the vocals. <font color="#ffff00">Bai Bang</font> is every bit the Def Leppard rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How About Now</font> is a huge ballad with hands in the air harmonies and hooks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Raise Your Hands</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Summertime</font> are two more killer anthems with a moody edge, but layered chorus harmonies to the hilt.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Now You're Gone</font> is darker still and quite intense and perhaps the heaviest track of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All Around The World</font> pounds through the speakers with more hooks and a chorus that never stops, while <font color="#ffff00">Get It On</font> closes the album with a fierce guitar riff and another thumping beat.</font><br />   <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"> Credit where credit is due - the band could have been over after the last album, but they refused to take it lying down. Instead they have stormed back with 10 consistently enjoyable and ear thumping tracks that comprise what might just be their best album ever. At 35 minutes, there is no padding and no bullshit here – just wall to wall Scandi-rock anthems. </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> Enemy Lines<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cop To Con<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Riding High<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Attitude<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Best Of Bai Bang<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Are You Ready<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Livin' My Dream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Around The 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>Diddi Kastenholt:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pelle Eliaz, Jens Lundgren:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johnny Benson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joacim Sandin:</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>Def Leppard</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stage Dolls</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Grand Design</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> Everybody Everywhere <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gonna Make It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crazy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bai Bang<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How About Now <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Raise Your Hands <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Summertime<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Now You're Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Around The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get It 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Stala & So</b> <font color="#ffffff">Play Another Round</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/stalaandso-playanotherround.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Glam/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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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>Sampsa “Stala” Astela</b> (former lead vocalist of Finland's kings of quirk Lordi) and fellow bandmate, bassist <b>Nick Gore</b> are the main pair behind <b>Stayla & So</b>, a quirky and different band that almost defy being defined. There's some <b>Lordi</b> style exaggeration, a lot of old school 70s groove and some strong doses of power pop and glam also.<br /> Dare I say that not only is vocalist Stala an acquired taste, but so is the entire album. And overall I remain unconvinced, despite a few really catchy songs on offer. No, that doesn't entirely make sense, but there are simply some songs that despite being very catchy that I don't like! I'm not sold on the vocals either to be honest.<br /> The opening <font color="#ffff00">Rock Until I'm Done</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Tokyo Delights</font> are two songs that just can't not be liked. Especially the opening anthem. Great stuff. But <font color="#ffff00">The Boys And Having Fun</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Never Again</font> I don't go for at all, despite some good melodies on offer.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Back Together</font> is a nice ballad, while <font color="#ffff00">Alrite Tonite</font> is total 80s power fuzz-pop, but the vocals take some getting used to.<br /> I much prefer the feel good melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">Life Goes On</font> and the harder guitar driven <font color="#ffff00">All Alone</font>. The second ballad <font color="#ffff00">All She Wrote</font> is pretty good too.<br /> The bonus tracks include the non-starter <font color="#ffff00">Pamela</font> and an acoustic ballad cover version of the Ozzy tune <font color="#ffff00">Shot In The Dark</font>. Now that's an interesting twist…</font><br />   <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 reminds me in part of the quirkiness of <b>Enuff Z Nuff</b>, another band that I have failed to get into for the past 20 years, despite them having a legion of dedicated fans. It's all just a matter of personal taste and this album is something I'm struggling to fully appreciate due to its quirks. </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 Is So<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Play Another Round</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>Sampsa "Stala" Astela:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sami J., Pete Vaughn:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hank:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nick Gore:</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>Sampsa "Stala" Astela</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> Rock Until I'm Done <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tokyo Delights <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Boys And Having Fun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back Together<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alrite Tonite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life Goes On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All She Wrote<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For Your Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rockstar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pamela (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shot In The Dark (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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Snowfall</b> <font color="#ffffff">Cold Silence</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/snowfall-coldsilence.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Snowfall</b> is the new melodic hard rock project for singer <b>Lee Small</b> (Phenomena, Shy) and bassist/keyboardist/songwriter <b>“PB” Riise</b>. Mixing anthemic hard rock and bluesy with keyboard filled Scandi AOR, the project sees Small in his full-blown Glenn Hughes rock vocalist mode, which is never a bad thing.<br /> The sound quality and clear mix is guaranteed when produced, mixed and mastered by Mr. Dependable: <b>Martin Kronlund</b>, so Snowfall gains another credit there. Lastly the songs – good, punchy, strong performances here and chorus hooks that develop over time.<br /> What <b>Snowfall</b> offers is some really punchy melodic hard rock that requires several listens to best appreciate. The choruses are there, but not immediately obvious apart from a few “instant” tunes like the huge opener <font color="#ffff00">Don't Drive Me Home Tonight</font>; the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Heaven's Not Up There</font>, the layered vocals of <font color="#ffff00">Jack Of Diamonds</font> and the punchy rock beat on <font color="#ffff00">I Won't Be Lonely Anymore</font>.<br /> And the second to last song <font color="#ffff00">Alexandria</font> is possibly the catchiest song of the entire album. Should have been closer to the top I think.<br /> Elsewhere it takes a little time, but the king of this album is <b>Lee Small</b> and his monster vocals. Just check out the tone on the big groove-rocker <font color="#ffff00">Oscillate</font>.<br /> The orchestral and slightly progressive <font color="#ffff00">The Vesper Bell</font> closes the album on an impressive note.<br /> The album could perhaps have used another uptempo tune or two, as mid-tempo groove is the most prevalent throughout.</font><br />   <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"> Classy stuff from Lee and Rise and producer Kronlund. Three dependable names on one record, with enough quality to ensure this project gains some traction and gets a green light for a sequel at some point. </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> Cold Silence</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>Tore Meli:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Perra Johnson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>"PB" Riise:</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>Glenn Hughes</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Small</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>PB Riise</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 Drive Me Home Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Citadel Of Hope<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> House Of Prayer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven's Not Up There <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jack Of Diamonds <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wolf's Lair<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Won't Be Lonely Anymore <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stampede<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oscillate <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alexandria <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Vesper Bell <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>Whitesnake</b> <font color="#ffffff">Made In Japan</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">FRCD598 </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/whitesnake-madeinjapan.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Whitesnake</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> Disc A: 73</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> 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="195"> <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"><font color="#00ffff">Made In Japan</font> is a good value set. There's two audio discs and the live DVD on offer, but disc 2 is not a continuation of the live show, but rather outtakes from the band's soundchecks (<font color="#ffff00">Love Will Set You Free, Steel Your Heart Away, Lay Down Your Love, Evil Ways</font> – rougher, but still enjoyable versions) and no less than 4 acoustic versions of tracks from the last couple of albums (<font color="#ffff00">Fare Thee Well, One Of These Days, Good To Be Bad, Tell Me How</font>).<br /> The main disc is a 12 track live compilation of the band's appearances in Japan October 2011. Upon checking the exact set lists for those shows, it appears only the Deep Purple cover of Solider Of Fortune has been dropped from this 73 minute disc (time constraints obviously).<br /> That makes the set list all that more puzzling, as it draws heavily from the latest album and the <font color="#00ffff">Good To Be Bad</font> release (no problems there, both great albums), but instead of drawing songs from the past, we get 13 minutes of silly guitar and drum soloing. I guess <b>David Coverdale</b> gets to rest his well-worn vocals for a bit there.<br /> Yes, David sounds worn, but wouldn't we all after so many years of delivering the goods. In reality, he still delivers more than most his age and that tone of his is something that won't ever be replaced.</font><br />   <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"> Like most live albums, this is a die-hards only proposition, but the band sounds shit hot as usual and <b>Doug Aldrich</b> and <b>Reb Beach</b> shred throughout. The songs are unquestionably good and the sound for a live album is massive. Despite the solos, I like this a lot. Get ready for the (pushing the limits of live releases) companion release <font color="#00ffff">Made In Britain</font> in July.</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>Amaze Me</b> <font color="#ffffff">Guilty As Sin</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/amazeme-guiltyassin.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Peter Broman</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 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 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> AOR / 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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">Sweden's <b>Amaze Me</b> – for the record – is one man band and producer <b>Peter Broman</b> and vocalist <b>Conny Lind</b>. I had really high hopes for a new <b>Amaze Me</b> record. Their past life was summarized in a nice collection from AOR Heaven earlier in the year, but if anything, that collection only highlighted how far audio recording quality has come since Amaze Me was last making music a decade ago. The fact was that they didn't really cut it back then, despite some amazing songs and sadly, they still don't cut it in 2013 with a production style that hasn't improved any.<br /> While some of the performances here have been captured quite nicely and some of the songs hold true promise, the fact is that the overall mix is horrible and general arrangements within the songs just confuses matters more.<br /> Vocals are up front too far in one song, then buried deep in others. The drum sound is clearly programmed, which doesn't fly anymore in this day and age.<br /> The guitars are also part buried in the mix and part front and center elsewhere.<br /> In a nut shell, the album sounds too busy. Take the song <font color="#ffff00">With Or Without You</font>. Love the premise of it – love the hook and the potential of the dramatic chorus. But the execution is just a mess. Too much going on and none of it sounding like it's in the right place.<br /> The almost catchy <font color="#ffff00">Guilty As Sin</font> is the same. It's just a mess.<br /> Production issues aside, the songs themselves are quite diverse. There's some pop rock, a little traditional AOR and some harder moments. Plus a couple of songs that are fairly contemporary. But there is no common sound between them all and the quality, to be blunt, isn't what past Amaze Me records had.<br /> The songs were always the element that made an Amaze Me record bearable in the face of bad production.<br /> With that missing here, there isn't much to get excited about. Sadly.</font><br />   <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"> Messy and disjointed I'm sorry to say. Some highlights and promise, but another poorly executed record from Peter Broman. </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> Amaze Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wonderland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ultimate Collection<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guilty As Sin</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>Conny Lind:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Broman:</b> Everything Else</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>Amaze Me</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> Everybody<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost In A Dream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Stop Loving You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Endless Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> With Or Without You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Pain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guilty As Sin <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Run<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dying To Be Loved<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Is Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On Fire<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>Stryper</b> <font color="#ffffff">Second Coming</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">FRCD591 </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/stryper-secondcoming.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Stryper</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 67</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">Normally I'd call these kind of releases – re-recordings of “greatest hits” – die-hard fan only affairs. But there is something about the freshness of this collection of tunes that might just go beyond the fan-only base and serve as an introduction to the band for newcomers.<br /> Stryper have been gaining renewed popularity in the past few years since reforming, on the back of the very good trilogy of releases <font color="#00ffff">Reborn</font> (2005), <font color="#00ffff">Murder by Pride</font> (2009) and their covers album <font color="#00ffff">The Covering</font> (2011).<br /> You've got the original lineup still in place here covering songs from their original EP and the first two full length albums.<br /> Being that those songs are now considerably aged, one would have to say that the production here is far superior and the punch in the bottom end matches that extra power the band has delivered on their most recent albums.<br /> I'm not going to go into individual songs here, as they are all part of Stryper history. Fans will know them by heart, but for newcomers, this is a very good look into the early days of the band, with today's production quality.<br /> What I will discuss further is the two brand new songs included here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bleeding From Inside Out</font> is an emotional, yet powerful rock semi-ballad with a groove driven chorus featuring tons of guitars and that modern day Stryper sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blackened</font> is a solid melodic rocker with a pretty commercial feel to it. Sounds like prime 80s commercial hard rock, with a contemporary feel.<br /> Both are very good tracks.</font><br />   <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 worth checking out for new, and of course, old Stryper fans. The two new songs are the obvious highlight, but the freshness in the older material gives those songs a new lease on life and further adds to the solid recent output from the band.</font><br />   <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 Yellow And Black Attack<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soldiers Under Command<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Hell With The Devil<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In God We Trust<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Against The Law<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="stryper-reborn.p3">Reborn</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Murder By Pride<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Covering<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Second Coming</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 Sweet:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Oz Fox:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Sweet:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tim Gaines:</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>Stryper</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christian 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> Loud N' Clear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loving You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soldiers Under Command<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Makes Me Wanna Sing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> First Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Rock That Makes Me Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reach Out<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Hell With The Devil<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling On You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Free<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sing Along Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> More Than A Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleeding From Inside Out (New)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blackened (New)</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pretty Maids</b> <font color="#ffffff">Motherland</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">FRCD593 </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-motherland.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Jacob Hansen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">The Danish hard rock band follows up their acclaimed <font color="#00ffff">Pandemonium</font> release in very fine style here, taking all the energy and style from their last album, applying it to 13 brand new songs, which really are more melodic than ever.<br /> The power and production crispness from <b>Jacob Hansen</b> remains as does the always probing rhythm section, the raspy vocals and some metal driven guitar riffs. But at the heart of the album are some very fine melodies, keyboards mixing with the vocal and guitar hooks to craft truly memorable songs.<br /> The Danish rockers have been around since the early 80s, but really are in a golden period of their history. The band knows what fans want and are delivering it: power, melody and passion.<br /> Highlights from the album are numerous and pretty much run the gamut of the whole album. This is an extremely consistent record with no real fillers in sight.<br /> But my personal favorites include the opening bombastic <font color="#ffff00">Mother Of All Lies</font>; the double kick drum fuelled anthem <font color="#ffff00">The Iceman</font>; the more melodic and soulful <font color="#ffff00">Sad To See You Suffer</font>; the reflective and symphonic-infused <font color="#ffff00">Infinity</font>; the high energy title track <font color="#ffff00">Motherland</font> and the brilliant heavy ballad <font color="#ffff00">Bullet For You</font>.<br /> The heavy groove of <font color="#ffff00">Who What When Where Why</font> is also a good track to play ultra-loud and the closing 5 minute <font color="#ffff00">Wasted</font> is one of the album's most layered tracks.</font><br />   <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 early highlight of the 2013 hard rock year, with the band further cementing their reputation as one of the most consistent and reliable bands out of Europe. A no brainer for long time fans and those that have come aboard more recently, such as with the <font color="#00ffff">Pandemonium</font> 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<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pandemonium<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Motherland</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>Shades:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Morten Sandager:</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>Pretty Maids</b> - Pandemonium<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>European 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> Mother Of All Lies <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Fool A Nation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Confession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Iceman <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sad To See You Suffer <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hooligan<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Infinity <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Why So Serious<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Motherland <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I See Ghosts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullet For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who What Where When Why<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wasted <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>De La Cruz</b> <font color="#ffffff">Street Level</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">FRCD592 </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/delacruz-streetlevel.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Casey Jones</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">Australia's <b>De La Cruz</b> just announced the departure of their guitarist/producer <b>Casey Jones</b>. Not the way one would prefer to celebrate the launch of your debut album, but that as they say – is life.<br /> The guitarist may be gone (along with his production credit), but his and the entire band's contributions to their album <font color="#00ffff">Street Level</font> are captured forever.<br /> This debut is an impressive one, but there is room to move as far as honing their skills and making the jump from a good cult hard rock band to a worldwide draw. They can make it happen. First of all the guys have to work out who they are. There's a little personality conflict here as far as mixing up styles; from the glam-sleaze infused opening few tracks to commercial pop/rock and back again.<br /> At times they are channeling <b>Def Leppard</b> – right down to vocalist Roxxi's <b>Joe Elliott</b> mannerisms and the layered backing vocals (<font color="#ffff00">Legions Of Love, Gimmie Love, Dreaming</font>). At other times the guys think they are <b>Cinderella</b> (on the screechy <font color="#ffff00">World's Collide</font>) or perhaps <b>Motley Crue</b> (<font color="#ffff00">S.E.X.</font>).<br /> And there are times where the band has their own style of commercial 80s rock and sound most comfortable. <font color="#ffff00">Cherry Bomb</font> sounds pretty disposable lyrically, but you can't fault the catchiness of the material. The commercial and catchy <font color="#ffff00">Set The Night</font>; the reflective ballad <font color="#ffff00">Shine</font> and the anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Turn It Up</font> are best examples.<br /> Most of the time you feel as if you are listening to a compilation sampler of 80s hard rock artists, which really isn't a bad thing at all, it's just a little harder to keep up with the styles and song influences as they vary.<br /> For a group of young guys, their musical prowess is unquestionable. Some solid performances here and some terrific guitar work.<br /> The one soft spot in the band's armory (besides the departure of Jones) is vocalist Roxxi. His voice doesn't always carry the same authority as the music and it will be interesting to see what comes of the shakeup.</font><br />   <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 departure of Casey will leave the band at an early and unexpected crossroads, I hope they are able to restructure and more forward as there is a lot of promise here – they just need to fully work out exactly where they are going and what their core sound is. I think the vocalist is perhaps the one that needs to lead the band by picking out what he is best at and keeping the band within that style.</font><br />   <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> Street Level</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>Roxxi Catalano:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Casey Jones, Rory Joy:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>LaceyLane:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Grant Daniell:</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>Def Leppard</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Motley Crue</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Cinderella</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> Street Level <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Girls Go Wild<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn It Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Legions Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gimme Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cherry Bomb <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreaming <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Invincible<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Worlds Collide<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> S.E.X.<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Set The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine <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>Great White</b> <font color="#ffffff">30 Years - Live From The Sunset Strip</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">FRCD587 </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/greatwhite-30yearslive.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Great White</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 73</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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="195"> <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">The jury is still out for me as far as <b>Terry Ilous</b> fronting <b>Great White</b> – despite my long held high regard for the singer and indeed the band overall. The latest studio album pushed me further towards the negative, but this 30 Year Anniversary Concert has gone song way to repairing that damage. There's only 11 tracks on here, which is probably my only main gripe – this 74 minute show can hardly cover the band's amazing legacy in just that number of tracks.<br /> Thankfully they do stick to the biggest hits though, with only <font color="#ffff00">Back To The Rhythm</font> included from recent years.<br /> The rest is prime <b>Great White</b> classics such as <font color="#ffff00">Lady Red Light, Big Goodbye, House Of Broken Love</font> (on which Terry really excels). As with the last album, the overall vibe is still fairly laid back in comparison with how the band rocked in the 80s, but the performances are still perfect.</font><br />   <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"> Without <b>Jack Russell</b> in attendance the Anniversary show seems a little flat, but this is more about celebrating the songs (three of which aren't the band's originally) than the band. This is one for the absolute diehards I'm afraid, but it's still pretty good listening.</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>Bon Jovi</b> <font color="#ffffff">What About Now</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/bonjovi-whataboutnow.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Shanks</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52 / 65</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.bonjovi.com" target="new">Bon Jovi</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">If you ever want to review an album that will divide the reader base and leave you damned either way you favor, go pick any of the last few <b>Bon Jovi</b> records.<br /> The band still has a devoted fan base, but equally has just as many detractors calling for the band to be publically stoned for selling out their rock roots.<br /> So where does one start with <font color="#00ffff">What About Now</font>?<br /> <br /> It's too easy to just shit on the band for selling out and redefining the term “rock” to mean anything plugged in – without the actual need to “rock” in the proper sense of the term. First – much respect to the band for still being viable in this day and age. They can still shift 100k records in the USA and they sell out stadiums around the world.<br /> You just can't take that away from them. They may be the <b>Jon Bon Jovi band</b> since reforming a decade or so back, but it works for them and the other guys don't seem to have much to say about it. I was set to rant on about the under-utilization of <b>Richie Sambora's</b> immense talents, but after his last solo album, the blame for Jovi's mellowing can't be squarely laid upon the frontman.<br /> I loved <font color="#00ffff">Have A Nice Day</font>; thought <font color="#00ffff">Lost Highway, Bounce</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Crush</font> were okay and hated the most recent album <font color="#00ffff">The Circle</font>.<br /> So there seemed little chance I was going to appreciate anything within this one. So I'm surprised to find that there are parts I'm enjoying and a couple of songs I rate highly. But there is far too much filler yet again and the ballads kill the momentum of the album – especially with the overburdened Deluxe Edition. Should a <b>Bon Jovi</b> album really be relegated to a few great songs per release?<br /> The ongoing mellower tone of the band these days really does give them the appearance of being on auto-pilot.<br /> <br /> The album mixes the country/acoustic vibe of <font color="#00ffff">Lost Highway</font> with the more recent modern rock tone of <font color="#00ffff">The Circle</font> and <font color="#00ffff">H.A.N.D.</font>, but adds little more urgency in some of the songs, not to mention a few very likable choruses.<br /> But there is filler here too. I could safely live without ever hearing another <b>Bon Jovi</b> ballad as long as I live, and nothing here changes my mind there. So I'm skipping <font color="#00ffff">Amen, Thick As Thieves</font>, and <font color="#00ffff">The Fighter</font> and also give <font color="#00ffff">Room At The End Of The World</font> a pass. Seriously – what rock band ends their albums with 2 ballads in a row?<br /> Then there's the “deluxe edition” which two more shiteously slow, horrible and countrified ballads. And that opening track – guys – that's simply <font color="#ffff00">I'll Sleep When I'm Dead</font> slowed down to old man pacing. This is easily the worst Bon Jovi lead single/opening track in history. The cliché ridden track is so utterly predictable and slow paced, plus it wastes a decent Sambora lead break on a weak chorus.<br /> On the good side of the ledger for this album is the ultra-moody <font color="#ffff00">I'm With You</font>, with its dark and menacing edge, plus the excellent modern <b>U2/Coldplay</b> pop/rock of <font color="#ffff00">What About Now</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Pictures Of You</font> which both deliver strong choruses and some decent guitar parts.<br /> I also rate <font color="#ffff00">That's What The Water Made Me</font> (what the hell does that mean?) and the Lost Highway “leftover” <font color="#ffff00">What's Left Of Me</font>.<br /> And <font color="#ffff00">Army Of One</font> is another fine brooding number with a rock edge that could have been better executed, but good try anyway and a favourite of mine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful World</font> is a total rip-off from <b>Matchbox Twenty</b>, but catchy enough and the Deluxe Edition adds one decent extra – the uptempo modern pop/rocker <font color="#ffff00">With These Two Hands</font>.</font><br />   <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"> Decent? Yes. Good even to some I'm sure. Great? No. Classic? Not even close. But I think it's better than the last release. But is <font color="#00ffff">What About Now</font> any sign or hint of a rethinking of their direction and a move back towards their classic sound? No way…and don't ever expect it. Bon Jovi seem content on deliving average albums every 3 years. No great stretch and no great musical challenge for those listening.<br /> The JBJ Band seem so comfortable in their slacks and skivvies with one eye on retirement, they are never likely to look back at the skin tight leathers at the back of their closet. Take each release as it comes for what it is and try and pick out a few new great tunes to stick on that ever changing "Bon Jovi Best Of" playlist.<br /> If I was Bon Jovi or a similar band I;d be asking myself this: <i>"how many fans do I have now that are with us because of what we did in the past? And how many of those are happy with what we are doing today? If the answer is not <b>all of them</b>, then get back to doing what you did when you were at your best."</i></font><br />   <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="bonjovi-crush.p3">Crush</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-onewildnight.p3">One Wild Night</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-bounce.p3">Bounce</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-thisleftfeelsright.p3">This Left Feels Right</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-haveaniceday.p3">Have A Nice Day</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-losthighway.p3">Lost Highway</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="bonjovi-thecircle.p3">The Circle</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What About Now</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>Jon Bon Jovi:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richie Sambora:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>David Bryan:</b> Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tico Torres:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Voldemort:</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>Bon Jovi</b> - Lost Highway<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bon Jovi</b> - The Circle</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> Because We Can<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm With You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What About Now <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pictures Of You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Amen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> That's What The Water Made Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What's Left Of Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Army Of One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thick As Thieves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Room At The End Of The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Fighter<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>Crashdiet</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Savage Playground</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">FRCD584 </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/crashdiet-thesavageplayground.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Otto Welllton</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">After the quite superb <font color="#00ffff">Generation Wild</font> album, expectations for the Swedish hard rocking glamsters to deliver again was at fever pitch. So what did the band do? A complete 180 of course! Anyone dead set on a continuation of the last album found themselves accosted by this fierce, raw, stripped right down, in your face opus of fury.<br /> I've heard some negative reviews about this album, but I'm totally sold on it. The attitude within can barely be contained by the speakers and the delivery is nothing short of menacing.<br /> It may be totally raw and barely produced, but the songs just rip your heart out and the style chosen can't hide their brilliance.<br /> Tracks like <font color="#ffff00">Change The World</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Cocaine Cowboys</font> and the hate filled <font color="#ffff00">Anarchy</font> just rip and tear. Then there is the monster anthem <font color="#ffff00">California</font> which is simply one of the best sleaze anthems of the last few years.<br /> The lyrical attack in <font color="#ffff00">Lickin' Dog</font> is as compelling as the catchy chorus and the onslaught reaches a crescendo with the double time pounding rhythm of <font color="#ffff00">Circus</font>.<br /> This is truly an exhausting record to rock to. <font color="#ffff00">Sin City</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Got A Reason</font> don't give up the relentless energy, nor does the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">Drinkin' Without You</font>.<br /> The groove driven <font color="#ffff00">Snakes In Paradise</font> grows on you and is followed by the similar <font color="#ffff00">Damaged Kid</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Excited</font> offers up another catchy hard rocking chorus before the ultra-raw <font color="#ffff00">Garden Of Babylon</font> delivers another essential hook and chorus.<br /> Closing the album without skipping a beat for the entire 62 minutes is the punkish thrash of <font color="#ffff00">Liquid Jesus</font>.</font><br />   <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 ton of energy, a ton of attitude and a ton of hard rocking fun. The listener might have to adjust their ears to atone to the raw, unpolished delivery and the punked up sonic blast, but these songs just have so much charisma, I love it. Mix this energy and the polish of <font color="#00ffff">Generation Wild</font> and you might just have the perfect hard sleaze 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> Rest in Sleaze<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Unattractive Revolution<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Generation Wild<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Savage Playground</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>Simon Cruz:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Sweet:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Young:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter London:</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>Crashdiet</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Swedish Sleaze</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Early Motley Crue</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> Change The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cocaine Cowboys <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anarchy <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> California <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lickin' Dog<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Circus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sin City <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Got A Reason <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Drinkin Without You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Snakes In Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damaged Kid<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Excited <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Garden Of Babylon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Liquid Jesus<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>N.O.W.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bohemian Kingdom</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/now-bohemiankingdom.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Lars Chriss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Nothing better than reviewing an album by an artist who knows what he has to do in order beat the album before (in this case, the <b>N.O.W.</b> debut <font color="#00ffff">Force Of Nature</font>), and doesn't stop until that has been achieved. So what I'm saying here is that the new album <font color="#00ffff">Bohemian Kingdom</font> is in every way a step up from the already impressive debut.<br /> It has taken album writer, bassist and mainstay <b>Alec Mendonca</b> three years to achieve that, but the album sounds all the better for the time taken to get it right.<br /> First up – the production is a big improvement – more evenly mixed and featuring a snappy rhythm section and vocalist <b>Philip Bardowell's</b> voice sounds even brighter in the mix, the man is in terrific form. The songs are also exactly what you'd hope for in a sophomore album – equally as catchy but ever more powerful and complex, showing growth as a writer and an artist for Mendonca.<br /> <br /> Opening with the fastest and most rocking track I have heard so far from the outfit, <font color="#ffff00">I'm Alive</font> signals there is to be no holding back here.<br /> The moody <font color="#ffff00">I Feel Divine</font> follows – perfect for Bardowell's voice and is wonderfully produced.<br /> Of course there are comparisons to 70s <b>Foreigner</b> here and <font color="#ffff00">Don't Go Now</font> and the anthemic killer ballad <font color="#ffff00">Strong Enough</font> are great examples of that and also of <b>N.O.W.</b> at their impactful best.<br /> The anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Mary-Ann</font> is a great feel good track that is perfectly balanced by the quality Foreigner-esque ballad <font color="#ffff00">Tonight Is The Night</font>.<br /> The title track <font color="#ffff00">Bohemian Kingdom</font> is one of the more complex of the album and takes a few listens to absorb, but what a chorus and great tempo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Leon's Going Soft</font> continues the dramatic passage of the album that concludes with the sweeping <font color="#ffff00">Cassie's Dream</font>.<br /> The album closes with the near-8 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">No One Can Feel It's Over</font> – a ballad, but with slow and building parts and orchestral backing for good measure. A big ambitious track and I think it fits the mood of the album perfectly.</font><br />   <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 has a real organic, earthy feel to it which I love. Overall, it's a terrific melodic rock album and just that little bit different from a lot of the other melodic rock/AOR releases around.<br /> I think 50 minutes is the perfect length for an album as long as there are no fillers and <font color="#00ffff">Bohemian Kingdom</font> certainly doesn't. A Triumphant return for <b>Alec Mendonca</b> and his vocalist partner <b>Philip Bardowell</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> Force Of Nature<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bohemian Kingdom</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:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Juno Moraes:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lars Chriss:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alec Mendonça:</b> Bass & Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jean Barros:</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>N.O.W.</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Foreigner</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Philip Bardowell</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Places Of Power</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'm Alive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Feel Divine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Go Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strong Enough <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mary-Ann <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tonight Is The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bohemian Kingdom <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Leon's Going Soft<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cassie's Dream<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No One Can Feel It's Over<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>Diamond Dawn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Overdrive</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD588 </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/diamonddawn-overdrive.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Diamond Dawn</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff8000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">There's a lot of PR around for these guys and they are doing their best to raise their profile with some gigs in their native Sweden. This is yet another example of classic old-school keyboard driven melodic rock/AOR from Scandinavia.<br /> More catchy songs, more catchy melodies and feel good choruses surrounded by sweet harmonies and the unmistakable feeling that 1988 is just around the corner.<br /> The single <font color="#ffff00">Take Me Higher</font> is terrific and the even more uptempo <font color="#ffff00">Cryin'</font> carries on the building tempo of the album that slows briefly before going into overdrive for the mid-album sequence of <font color="#ffff00">Indestructible, Turn It Up, The Hunter</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Give It All</font>. These four tracks are probably the most consistent of the album as far as energy and chorus highs.<br /> The dramatic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Don't Walk Away</font> is the sole tearjerker of the album before the album closes with the keyboard-heavy punch of <font color="#ffff00">Powergames</font>.<br /> There is some great songs here and Scandi fans will have to pencil this one in for purchase. The only thing I will say is that the band is not yet at the level of fellow Swede's <b>H.E.A.T., Work Of Art, The Magnificent</b> etc.<br /> I think vocalist <b>Alexander Standell</b> needs to work on his tone and accented delivery more while the band cook up some knockout choruses. </font><br />   <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 solid as this album is for a debut, I expect album number two will be the one to watch for. But it's still strong enough to warrant a "must-buy" tick for fans of everything that comes from Sweden, the sweet melodic musical empire it 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> Overdrive</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>Alexander Standell:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Olle Lindahl:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Efraim Larsson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael Planefeldt:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Niklas Arkbro:</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>Scandi Melodic Rock & 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> Into Overdrive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Me Higher <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crying <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Standing As One<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> California Rush<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Indestructible <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn It Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Hunter <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Walk Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Powergames<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>Player</b> <font color="#ffffff">Too Many Reasons</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">FRCD589 </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/player-toomanyreasons.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Peter Beckett</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA</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 / 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">Did the world really need a new Player album? <b>Peter Beckett</b> continues to be one of those much respected underground AOR figures, but <b>Ron Moss</b>??<br /> Well, it's been a long while in-between drinks for the AOR/Westcoast outfit and <font color="#00ffff">Too Many Reasons</font> is their first album since the early 80s.<br /> Not a lot has changed, but fans would be expecting that. Beckett is in fine form running the band through 13 new tracks – all co-written, produced and played on by the talented musician. He handles lead vocals on all but 2 of the tracks, leaving partner Moss to provide vocals on 2 tracks and play some bass.<br /> Of interest to AOR pundits is the appearance of <b>Steve Plunkett</b>, co-writing much of the album with Beckett and mixing several tracks.<br /> There are a few fine AOR tunes here – the opening trio of songs all rate highly for different reasons.<br /> The uptempo <font color="#ffff00">Man On Fire</font> and the moody <font color="#ffff00">Precious</font> rating the highest. Others, like the Moss sung <font color="#ffff00">You're My Addiction</font> could have fit onto any <b>Rembrandts</b> record.<br /> Some of the other tracks wander too far into Westcoast pop for my liking.<br /> There are other highlights like the uptempo yet moody <font color="#ffff00">To The Extreme</font> and the rousing <font color="#ffff00">Life In Colour</font>; yet for each highlight there is a sleepy all-too-slow filler to match (<font color="#ffff00">A Part Of Me, The Sins Of Yesterday, Kites</font>) and the completely unnecessary revisiting of that woeful 1978 pop ditty <font color="#ffff00">Baby Come Back</font>.</font><br />   <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 decent release for fans of Beckett, and the smooth Westcoast pop sound. A well-crafted album, if not a little dull here and there. But some quality AOR as expected to pick up the slack. Good, but not essential. </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> Player<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger Zone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Room with a View<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spies of Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Many Reasons</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 Beckett except ** Lead Vocal: Ronn Moss:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Beckett, Rob Math, Michael Hakes:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Parnell, Steve Plunkett:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronn Moss, Michael Parnell:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Beckett, Michael Parnell:</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>Player</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Beckett</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> Man On Fire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Precious <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Will<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Sins Of Yesterday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're My Addiction** <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Many Reasons<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To The Extreme <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Words You Say<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Life In Color <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Part Of Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kites**<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothin' Like You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Baby Come Back<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>Sebastian Bach</b> <font color="#ffffff">ABachalypse Now</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/sebastianbach-abachalypsenow.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> Sebastian Bach</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> 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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">A good value package this, with 2CDs featuring a different Bach concert each disc and a DVD featuring the visuals for those 2 shows and a bonus third show.<br /> Bach's a great frontman, filled with attitude and a takes the audience by a scruff of the neck approach and fans of his most recent solo album and the <b>Skid Row</b> classics get a mix of both delivered here.<br /> His band kicks ass, especially young guitarist <b>Nick Sterling</b>.<br /> As far as the overall product though – I'm not sure how much of this performance is actually an untouched “live”, performance.<br /> Bach's vocals seem overdubbed at times – especially noticeable on the DVD and the repetition of 3 shows from the same tour throws up 3 very similar set lists and the performances don't vary.<br /> So not really a knock out essential release – more so one for the die-hard Bach fans.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>W.E.T.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rise Up</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">FRCD594 </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/wet-riseup.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Erik Martensson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>98%</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>Jeff Scott Soto, Erik Martensson</b> and <b>Robert Sall</b>, with the help of <b>Eclipse's Robban Bäck</b> and <b>Magnus Henriksson</b>, produce what must be the most anticipated melodic rock album of 2013.<br /> And naturally enough, they do not disappoint, with some of the finest examples of powerful melodic music this genre can deliver.<br /> I think this release is a little different than your normal debut album sequel scenario.<br /> First, the band has to work up something that will challenge the brilliance of that first album. Secondly the first album was written entirely by <b>Erik Martennson</b> with his writing partner in Sweden and this time vocalist <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> was always going to be more involved in the writing.<br /> Lastly, the fans got to know what exactly <b>W.E.T.</b> musically stood for on their debut, so and the guys have lost that surprise wow factor.<br /> <br /> Therefore they must deliver some cracking songs as well as take the listener forward.<br /> I think the guys have for the most part delivered on those points. There are some songs on <font color="#00ffff">Rise Up</font> that are so breathtakingly phenomenal, had the whole album been filled with such, I'd have to rate it 105. But there are a couple of moments where I think they played it safe and not quite every track blows my mind. But, we are talking about <b>W.E.T.</b> here – the very best is expected from them and from the musicianship, production quality and overall melodic joy encountered within this album, they are still head and shoulders above the competition.<br /> Production is immense and the layers of harmonies are even bigger than the debut.<br /> I'd like to single out <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> for his vocal performance here. The vocals are right on the edge of his (huge) range and they sound so 'in the moment', with emotion as well as power. I'm sure I am hearing some one-take performances here.<br /> <br /> Opening the album is scintillating fashion is the Journey-esque brilliance of <font color="#ffff00">Walk Away</font>, a song so rich in melodic goodness that it pours from the speakers. This song was to be buried back further in the album, but I campaigned for it to be the opener (over the band's preferred option <font color="#ffff00">Bad Boys</font>). I'm so glad it made it here as it is just glorious. It just makes me happy by listening to this.<br /> Then without any break, the album segues straight into another amazing song <font color="#ffff00">Learn to Live Again</font>, which is another multi-layered hard rocking anthem of epic proportions, with Erik and Jeff trading vocals at the verse intros. Another song that defines what melodicrock.com is all about. 105/100!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rise Up</font> is one of three tracks written after the initial album's 12 tracks were completed (yes, there are 3 more songs out there folks!). A grandiose intro and really moody verse promises another classic, and while I love the song again, the chorus perhaps doesn't reach the peaks of the first two tracks. That said – all albums need light and shade and this is a small change of pace.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love Heals</font> is the first of two big ballads on the album – both thunderously huge in their delivery and emotion. But for me – this is the weaker of the two ballads and is a little more straight forward as far as its structure. Again, I like the verse a little more than the chorus – the JSS vocal is awesome and the mood haunting.<br /> The left-off metal ballad <font color="#ffff00">Bigger Than Both Of Us</font> would have been perfect here instead.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What You Want</font> is another WTH moment. No, more like “how the hell” – as in how the hell did anyone write a song so fricken fantastically awesome. Hardly my best example of journalistic writing there, but the song is so intensely brilliant, it's all I could come up with to convey my love of this multi-layered, mid-tempo AOR anthem.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Moment</font> features another high-octane, uptemo anthem with a killer verse with a very likable chorus. Once again, I probably like the verse and the song structure as a whole better than the short chorus hook – but killer stuff and big riffs and vocals from Erik and company.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bad Boy</font> – the proposed opening track of the album – is one that I already see has drawn mixed comments from fans. I love the song itself and the heaviness of it. But I'm not a fan of the lyric and that's after I have lived with it for more than 6 months, It was one of the 3 first demos I heard from the initial writing sessions and I wasn't blown away by it then either.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">On The Run</font> is a super heavy, hard rocking track with guitars everywhere and a simple ear shattering drum beat. A hard impact verse and equally impressive chorus. Just a monster rocker featuring a huge vocal. Wonderful.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Broken Wings</font> is the track I thought might be cool to close the album with. But here it is and I'm just glad it's on the album anywhere. I love the anthemic guitar riff that kicks it off and the moody verse that follows. And the closing minute or so is trademark <b>Erik Martensson</b> guitar soloing. It's perhaps my favorite 1 minute passage of the whole album. It should have gone longer! The only thing – the riff is so instantly anthemic, I expected the chorus to be even bigger. It wasn't.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shot</font> is another really hard hitting punchy rock anthem with a dramatic and demanding verse before a more anthemic chorus. Love it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Still Believe In Us</font> is the pick of the ballads on <font color="#00ffff">Rise Up</font>. This is a monster ballad with heart, passion and emotion and probably should have been up first of the two ballads. Extraordinary vocal and big chorus. Melodic perfection.<br /> Instead of a big drawn out conclusion, the album ends with the relatively short, but awesome hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Still Unbroken</font>. Urgent, big chorus, lots of vocals and a big tempo lifter for the close. Another great track (and huge solo) without doubt. </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"> Most importantly, <b>W.E.T.</b> have proved that they are a real group, capable of delivering the highest quality melodic rock possible and raising the bar as far as what other bands should be aiming for in 2013. They also prove the debut wasn't just a fluke and that <b>Erik Martennson</b> seems to be an endless well of great songs.<br /> Essential for fans of the debut and all things JSS/Erik related and lovers of fine fine melodic rock with kick. </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> W.E.T.<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise 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>Jeff Scott Soto:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Mårtensson:</b> Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Säll:</b> Keyboards, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robban Bäck:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Henriksson:</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>Jeff Scott Soto</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Martensson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eclipse</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toby Hitchcock</b> - This Is The Moment</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> Walk Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Learn to Live Again <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Heals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What You Want <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Moment <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Boy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Run<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Wings <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shot <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Believe In Us <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Unbroken <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>Snakecharmer</b> <font color="#ffffff">Snakecharmer</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/snakecharmer-cd.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Snakecharmer</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> Blues 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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">Any album featuring one of my favourite vocalists in <b>Chris Ousey</b> (Virginia Wolf, Heartland, The Distance and solo) should not take this much work to appreciate.<br /> It's taken me way too long to get into this album and I fear many won't have the same patience I have. And I don't think it's going to have lasting staying power like the amazing Ousey solo album from 2011.<br /> At the end of the day, I don't rate it among Chris' best work, even though the pedigree of those involved should almost guarantee is classic status without even hearing it.<br /> <b>Whitesnake's Micky Moody</b> and <b>Neil Murray</b>; Thunder/Magnum drum <b>Harry James</b>; plus British classic rockers <b>Laurie Wisefield</b> and <b>Adam Wakeman</b> are all pedigree players.<br /> But I'm not feeling the warmth of this album I should.<br /> Chris sounds amazing, the production is great, the playing impeccably good…but the songs don't drive this from good to great.<br /> Several songs fall into that dreaded plod-rock syndrome that I hate with a passion – the go nowhere pace that classic rock and metal is too often handicapped with.<br /> Say no more than the opening track <font color="#ffff00">My Angel</font>. Terribly slow for an opener. The following track <font color="#ffff00">Accident Prone</font> is far far better and a highlight for the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">To The Rescue</font> features a nice Ousey vocal, but again plods with a pretty crappy chorus. And so it goes. The choruses are weak, but the music and performances are top notch.<br /> Blues driven rock is the order of the day and this release will suit fans of that genre more than lovers of traditional melodic rock.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Turn Of The Screw</font> is a great little boogie rock n roll number and <font color="#ffff00">Stand Up</font> also picks up the tempo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Guilty As Charges</font> is also another one of the better album tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nothing To Lose</font> is the album's only ballad – an acoustic driven melodic track that I think might just be the best of all the tracks here, with a classic Ousey vocal up front.<br /> Additionally - the songs are just too long for what they deliver. 5 and half or 6 minute plodding blues rockers just don't work when several are featured on the same 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"> Not bad by any rate – very good production and performances and as usual <b>Chris Ousey</b> sounds amazing, but I'm not convinced by the songs themselves this time around. The spark is missing 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> Snakecharmer</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 Ousey:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Micky Moody, Laurie Wisefield:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harry James:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Neil Murray:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Adam Wakeman:</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 Ousey</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>70s Whitesnake</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> My Angel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Accident Prone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To The Rescue<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Leaves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Little Rock & Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn Of The Screw <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Smoking Gun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Guilty As Charged <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing To Lose <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cover Me In 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pink Cream 69</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ceremonial</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/pinkcream69-ceremonial.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">I had absolutely no idea that it had been 6 years since the last <b>Pink Cream 69</b> album. I guess <b>Dennis Ward</b> and <b>David Readman</b> have still kept their prfiles high with their many other projects and duties that it hadn't seemed like the band had been away at all.<br /> But they are back – and with them is the trademark sound and style that sounds so immediately at home. Dennis' ultra-smooth production and David's dark and moody vocal tone plus the unquestionable talents of the well-seasoned band lineup are a joy to listen to.<br /> With that all said, it took me quite a few listens to get into the album. I don't think it holds up the quality of the awesome <font color="#00ffff">Sonic Dynamite</font> or <font color="#00ffff">Electrified</font> releases, rather sitting comfortably alongside their last release In10sity.<br /> For the most part, the album is very consistent and still delivers what you'd expect from the guys. I still find a couple of songs mildly annoying though (another PC69 quirk?) – I'm not too fond of the single <font color="#ffff00">Special</font> or the following track <font color="#ffff00">Find Your Soul</font>.<br /> But the opening duo of <font color="#ffff00">Land Of Confusion</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Wasted Years</font> are nothing short of glorious Euro-melodic hard rock.<br /> And the slightly more melodic <font color="#ffff00">The Tide</font> is awesome also. The groovy <font color="#ffff00">Big Machine</font> is classic PC69 through and through.<br /> Elsewhere <font color="#ffff00">Let The Thunder Roll</font> has a strong melodic hook; <font color="#ffff00">Right Or Wrong</font> is classy; <font color="#ffff00">I Came To Rock</font> is a little cheesy, but, er…”rocks”; and <font color="#ffff00">King For One Day</font> is perhaps the most AOR track on the album – very enjoyable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Superman</font> is an ok mid-tempo rocker to close the album – with a little Van Halen influence in there perhaps.</font><br />   <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 little bit of a mixed bag, with a couple of fillers, but also several classic PC69 tracks to add to the band's impressive catalogue of music. Not a classic and perhaps not up to what one might expect after a 6 year wait, but should keep the vast number of fans happy. </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> Electrified<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="pinkcream69-sonicdynamite.html">Sonic Dynamite</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Endangered Species<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="pinkcream69-thunderdome.p3">Thunderdome</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="pinkcream69-in10sity.p3">In10sity</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ceremonial</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>David Readman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alfred Koffler, Uwe Reitenauer:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Schmidt:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Ward:</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>Pink Cream 69</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Ward</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>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> Land of Confusion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wasted Years <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Special<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Find Your Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Tide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Machine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let the Thunde Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right or Wrong <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Passage of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Came to Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King for One Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Superman <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>Rage Of Angels</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dreamworld</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/rageofangels-dreamworld.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Ged Rylands</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 69</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Rage of Angels</b> is the brainchild of original <b>Ten</b> keyboard player <b>Ged Rylands</b>, who played on the band's first three studio albums and the double live CD 'Never Say Goodbye', not to mention the now classic <b>Hugo</b> debut.<br /> This is an ambitious project recorded over a decade in-between other duties, touring with <b>Tyketto</b> and session work including the debut album from <b>Lover Under Cover</b>.<br /> 10 melodic rock songs are featured here – a lot of music and a lot of guests. The album runs 70 minutes which means these songs are all quite lengthy.<br /> Some are too long to be honest. A little editing could have tightened up this album a bit.<br /> But others are over before you are ready – such are the quality of the melodies and I do like some epic tracks in a melodic rock style.<br /> <br /> <font color="#00ffff">Dreamworld</font> is a keyboard heavy, guitar friendly mid-tempo 7 minute epic featuring the fine voice of <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b>. Definitely the kind of song that you'd hear in the opening stages of an early Ten record.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">See You Walking By</font> is simple melodic bliss in a dreamy AOR style sung by <b>Harry Hess</b> that could have easily been lifted from the debut <b>Harem Scarem</b> record. It will be a fan favorite I imagine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Through It All</font> is a punchy rocker with a blues edge and a wailing guitar effort. Vocalist on hand is <b>Robert Hart</b>, who in this instance sounds a lot like <b>Bob Catley</b>. In fact, the whole song sounds like one from the early Catley solo records.<br /> The single <font color="#ffff00">Over And Over</font> features <b>Danny Vaughn</b> on lead vocals and is a happy go lucky simple AOR anthem, which I find very enjoyable.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Falling</font> is another lush keyboard/guitar mix mid-tempo melodic rock song that again could fit onto an early Ten album. This time <b>Ralf Scheepers</b> is on vocals and sounds remarkably like <b>Gary Hughes</b> in the lower register.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Beating of Your Heart</font> is a long slow ballad with <b>David Reed Watson</b> on vocals and <b>Tommy Denander</b> on guitars. A soaring conclusion makes it a worthwhile inclusion.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Spinning Wheel</font> is an 8 minute rocker that doesn't have the production quality of some other songs and is filled with swirling progressive keyboards and a ton of other effects. Simply put – way too long.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Requiem for the Forgotten Soldier</font> is a 7 minute instrumental featuring some classy guitar work from <b>Ralph Santolla, Martin Kronlud, Vinny Burns</b> and <b>Xander Demos</b>. It's ok. But coupled with the last track which was only 'ok' also, makes for a 15 minute passage within the album that I could give or take (aside from Vinny's brilliant slow solo).<br /> Closing the long album is <font color="#ffff00">We Live, We Breathe, We Die</font> again features the great Robert hart on vocals and more classy guitar from <b>Vinny Burns</b>. An intense slow to mid-tempo track, the 9 minute running length takes some getting into.</font><br />   <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 big highlights in the first half of the album and some longer, more challenging songs on the back half, which some might find harder to appreciate. Overall, a long, but satisfying album with a good number of special guests – especially in the vocal department.<br /> One for fans of the early <b>Ten</b> and <b>Bob Catley</b> solo records and traditional British AOR/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> Dreamworld</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>Ten</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bob Catley</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robert Hart</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> Dreamworld <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> See You Walking By <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through It All <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Over and Over <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Prelude for the Gods<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Beating of Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spinnin Wheel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Requiem for the Forgotten Soldier<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Live, We Breathe, We Die <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>Jorn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Symphonic</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">FRCD579 </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/jorn-symphonic.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 71</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</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> 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">I've been quite critical of <b>Jorn's</b> increasingly predictable output in recent times. So upon hearing he was releasing another “compilation” of solo tracks, I sighed and resigned myself to dish out another “please explain” review.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Symphonic</font> contains no new music from Jorn – it does include an unreleased <b>Dio</b> cover that didn't make the album of the same name a while back, but the tunes have been remixed to accompany a full orchestral accompaniment.<br /> So, consider me quite surprised when I was nearly blown out of my chair with the power that these arrangements and what the simply stunning symphony orchestra brings to these songs.<br /> From the opening strains of the strings firing up to <b>Jorn's</b> majestic voice blasting through the speakers I was hooked.<br /> The unreleased <b>Dio</b> tune <font color="#ffff00">Rock N Roll Children</font> is immense as is the brooding <font color="#ffff00">The World I See</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burn Your Flame</font> is simply manic, <font color="#ffff00">Man Of The Road</font> epic and again we hear <b>Jorn</b> roll out <font color="#ffff00">Time To be King</font>. This might be its best format yet. Third time lucky?<br /> And how big is <font color="#ffff00">Mob Rules</font>? Epic.</font><br />   <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>Jorn's</b> voice has always been something I treasure, but musically I'm waiting for that classic. If you are going to have a stop-gap measure to keep fans happy, then this is the way you do it. Great concept that is perfectly executed and credit to the orchestra for being able to keep up with the tempo of some of these hard rocking tracks.<br /> However, now that this is done, no more retrospective releases please! </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">World Changer</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-outtoeverynation.p3">Out To Every Nation</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-theduke.p3">The Duke</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-unlockingthepast.p3">Unlocking The Past</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-thegathering.p3">The Gathering</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lonely Are The Brave<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dio<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Symphonic</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>Nic Angileri:</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</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Symphonic 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> I Came To Rock <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock And Roll Children <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The World I See<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burn Your Flame <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Man Of The Dark <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Time To Be King <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Morning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Like Stone In Water<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vision Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> War Of The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Behind The Clown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Thousand Cuts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Mob Rules <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>Edge</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> </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/edge-heavenknows.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Forss & Tobias Andersson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2013</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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>Edge</b> is yet another Swedish melodic rock outfit, the kind that (sadly) can easily be overlooked as featuring no one of note and delivering music that we really have all heard before. Another faceless melodic rock outfit in a very crowded market.<br /> That sounds overly harsh, but it's not anything against the band themselves. It is simply the state of the market right now and the sheer volume of music that fans have to digest. And sadly unless you have some kind of selling point, albums like this can very easily be overlooked.<br /> I guess that is where I come in. My position gives me the opportunity to champion younger bands like this and point out to potential fans just what they might be missing.<br /> So while this album appears plain wrapped as far as marketing opportunities go, the fact is they are very good and what they do. And the songs are as strong as just about anything else out there right now. Yes, there is nothing new here, but that's what we want sometimes and there is a quality to this I like.<br /> This is an album equally divided between guitar driven and keyboard lead tunes with a strong vocalist who has a mid-range voice.<br /> Production and mix quality is very good – I think any label could release this and be proud.<br /> They take a few songs to warm up, but once you hit <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere To Hide</font>, your ears are starting to take notice. Then the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Get Over It</font> hits and you'll be paying attention - a great, melodic and impactful mid-tempo rock ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Believe In Love</font> is the light and breezy contrast with a strong chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">There Is No Other Way</font> puts the band into high gear and gives some fellow Swede's real competition in the melodic rock stakes. And so it continues. Very good stuff all-round.</font><br />   <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 isn't a world away from the likes of <b>Treat, Eclipse</b> or other fellow Swedes. They just don't have the profile yet. But the strength of this debut has the ability to change that. If they can get enough fans to embrace this release, you'll definitely hear more of these guys. Why not jump on board right from the start. I don't think you'll be disappointed. </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> 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>Jonas Forss:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tobias Andersson:</b> Keyboards, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Olle Rodehn:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Torbjorn Brogren:</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>Swedish 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> Little Girl<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Long<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nowhere To Hide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Over It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Believe In Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> There Is No Other Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Could Never Live<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Hell And Back <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through That Door<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The End Of 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lionville</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">Avenue Of Allies 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/lionville-2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> 2012</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">European AOR project <b>Lionville</b> has now morphed into a proper ongoing band and that's exciting to see, as the debut was a great slice of pure Euro-AOR with all the needed elements of a classic old-school release – sweet vocals, harmonies, lots of keyboards and some subtle guitar riffing and soloing to toughen up the sound.<br /> I'm pleased to report that the second <b>Lionville</b> album sees everything about the debut stepped up another notch or two - better songs, great performances, better production and more consistent overall.<br /> The step up from the debut is much like the same difference between the two <b>Work Of Art</b> albums.<br /> And it's no coincidence that Work Of Art is the main comparison here, as both bands feature the outstanding lead vocals of <b>Lars Safsund</b>. His voice is just made for AOR and I can't get enough of it. And <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> has done a wonderful job of producing and mixing this album, plus contributing with <b>Stefano Lionetti</b> on what can only be described as a saturation of beautifully executed keyboard parts.<br /> Opening the album is the punchy keyboard drenched <font color="#ffff00">All We Need</font> with its sugary sweet harmonies.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Only Way Is Up</font> features perhaps the hardest riff of the album and another smooth chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Another Day</font> is a beauty of a track, with a strong <b>Toto/Seventh One</b> feel to it and a rising chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> is almost as sweet – with more blissful AOR that reminds me heavily of <b>Street Talk</b> at their best. Lots of harmonies here and <b>Chicago's Bill Champlin</b> joining in on lead and backing vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No Turning Back</font> is a soft and emotional pure AOR ballad with a Westcoast heart.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All This Time</font> is more uptempo and reminds me of Work Of Art. Another terrific song and picks the tempo up after the ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Next To Me</font> is one of the album's best tracks with a great hook and chorus melody, not to mention the memorable verse.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For A Star To Fall</font> is perhaps one of the cheesiest songs to ever come out of the late 80s, but <b>Lionville</b> turn it around into pure AOR class with extra guitars and a punch missing from the original.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Don't Walk Away</font> features one of the best vocals of the album, moody through the verse and soaring for the chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">One In A Million</font> is pure joyous AOR once again as is <font color="#ffff00">Shining Over Me</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Open Your Heart</font> is a more restrained closing track that again reminds me of <b>Goran Edman</b> and <b>Street Talk</b> when tackling breezy Westcoast material.</font><br />   <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 are a fan of anything by <b>Work Of Art, Street Talk, Toto</b> or <b>Richard Marx</b>, then <b>Lionville</b> is for you. This style of textbook traditional AOR is a big part of what makes MelodicRock.com tick and is a vital part of the melodic rock scene.<br /> I would think this would be called a great album by just about anyone's standards. </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> Lionville<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"><strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lars Säfsund:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stefano Lionetti:</b> Lead & Backing Vocals, Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Mori:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Anna Portalupi:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio:</b> Keyboards & backing vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bruce Gaitsch, Mario Percudani:</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>Work Of Art</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toto</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Marx</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 Need <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Only Way Is Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Higher <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Turning Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All This Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next To Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting For A Star To Fall <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Walk Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One In A Million <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shining Over Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Open Your 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gene The Warewolf</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock N Roll Animal</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">FRCD578 </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/genethewerewolf-rocknrollanimal.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Gene The Warewolf</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> 2012</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/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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">I'm still not sure what to make of this album. That's as far as personal taste goes and what I think fans of melodic rock in general will think. The reason being is that it's a pretty varied record – with some parts really appealing to me and others a little annoying.<br /> The band as I see it tries to be everything. Serious rock band, party rockers, modern rock and pop and sometimes all at the same time. Their image clearly signals that they are not taking things seriously and there is no doubt that this is a solid quality rock n roll album – but will it appeal?<br /> The music is all over the show!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wicked Love</font> is a party anthem; <font color="#ffff00">I Only Wanna Rock N Roll</font> is <b>Kiss</b> meets <b>AC/DC</b>; <font color="#ffff00">Superhero</font> is modern pop/rock in a <b>Waltham</b> meets <b>The Darkness</b> kinda way, complete with falsetto vocals and an annoying chorus; yet <font color="#ffff00">Heart Of Steel</font> takes a similar path, but to me is one of the album's highlights. Strange stuff.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rock N Roll Animal</font> is back to <b>AC/DC</b> hard riffing; <font color="#ffff00">I've Got The Love</font> is more power pop/<b>Kiss</b> 70s rock; <font color="#ffff00">Ruffneck Woman</font> is just a fun rock n roller without lasting power; <font color="#ffff00">Light Me Up</font> is a more serious rock ballad and is another strong number.<br /> The trio of songs at the end of the album are the good hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Firecracker</font>; the left of center but catchy as hell <font color="#ffff00">Give It Up</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Ballad Of Gene</font> – a 70s pomp epic unlike anything else on 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 varied album style wise and something that will find enthusiastic appeal with some fans and a lack of interest from others. The overall sound I think borders on contemporary rock and it sounds great and is well produced, but will be one that needs checking out before purchasing. </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> Light Me Up (EP)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wicked Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll Animal</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>Jon Belan:</b> Vocals, guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Drew Donegan:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nick Revak:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tim Schulz:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Aaron Mediate:</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>The Darkness</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>AC/DC</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> Wicked Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Only Wanna Rock N Roll <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Superhero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Of Steel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll Animal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I've Got The Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ruffneck Woman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Light Me Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Firecracker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Ballad Of Gene<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>Liberty & Justice</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Cigar Chronicles</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/libertyandjustice-thecigarchronicles.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> JK Northrup</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 2013</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> 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.libertynjustice.net" target="new">Liberty & Justice</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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>Liberty & Justice</b> continue their upwards trajectory with their most ambitious release to date. <font color="#00ffff">The Cigar Chronicles</font> is a 2 disc set of 13 originals and 13 cover tunes. The main focus for me here is the set of original tunes, as I'm so impressed with the result here.<br /> This is without doubt, the project's best album to date. Founded by songwriter <b>Justin Murr</b> and backed by guitarist/producer <b>JK Northrup</b> and special guests, the new album features the best production yet (by a mile) and some really engaging songs – punchy, hard hitting, contemporary melodic metal/hard rock, all with memorable choruses and some terrific individual performances by the guests assembled.<br /> And JK's guitar work is all over this record – both with attention grabbing solos and hard hitting riffs that drive the songs.<br /> Highlights out of the originals are the heavy anthem <font color="#ffff00">Devil His Dues</font> (Derrick LeFevre Vic Rivera, Michael Feighan & Barry Graul; the straight ahead melodic hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">The Greatest</font> (David Cagle, Mark Allen Lanoue & Brad Stetler); the powerful rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Under Construction</font> (Eric Dover, Mark Kendall, Ian Keith Hafner & Eric Ragno); the uptempo melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Been There Done That</font> (Ted Poley & Richard Kendrick) and the melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">Grace</font> (Michael Bormann, Phillip Bardowell & Mark Slaughter).<br /> Then of course there is the last ever <b>Jani Lane</b> fronted track <font color="#ffff00">Sin</font>, which is still heartfelt.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Daddy Long Legs</font> (Louis St August & Tim Gaines) is also super catchy and the rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Tomorrow</font> (Terry Ilous, Ron Wikso, Alessandro Del Vecchio & PK Mitchell) is cool too.<br /> <br /> Now – the covers. This 'disc' has been mixed by <b>CJ Snare</b>. I'm not so much a fan of these. Sure, JK rocks these songs to a previously unimaginable point, but for the most part, the songs selected should never had had a life to begin with. Included here are some of the worst musical abominations forced upon the ears of the world. Ever.<br /> Ok, so I like <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Dance</font> (Stevie Rachelle) and <font color="#ffff00">Pride</font> (CJ Snare) and <b>Kip Wiger's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Staying Alive</font> is just sublimely brilliant. In fact, it's legendary! And <font color="#ffff00">Dancing On The Ceiling</font> (James Christian) is a pretty interesting rocker that doesn't much resemble the original Lionel Richie track at all.<br /> But songs like <font color="#ffff00">Ice Ice Baby</font> (Shit Shit Baby!); <font color="#ffff00">YMCA; Blame It On The Rain, You're So Vain</font> (Faster Pussycat will never be topped) and <font color="#ffff00">Bye Bye Bye</font> should have been crossed off back at the pencil on paper ideas stage.<br /> And the <b>Goo Goo Dolls'</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">Iris</font> should never be turned into what <b>Tony Harnell</b> has done with it. Sorry Tony!<br /> Strangely though, I quite like <font color="#ffff00">Mmmm Bop</font> redone with <b>Jamie Rowe</b>. It suits him!</font><br />   <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 few abominable covers aside, this is a really great quality release from Christian songwriter Murr and the individual performances have been produced and mixed in with precision. There's a lot of energy here. This is the band's heaviest and best release 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> Armed With The Cross<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Guns<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever Till The End<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bagain Bin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="libertyandjustice-welcome.p3">Welcome to the Revolution</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soundtrack Of A Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Cigar 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">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>Liberty & Justice</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Modern Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>JK Northrup</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">CD1:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ice Ice Baby<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Dance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pride (In The Name Of Love)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stayin' Alive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> YMCA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Iris<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're So Vain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Queen Of The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blame It On The Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bye Bye Bye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancing On The Ceiling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stuck In The Middle With You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mmmbop <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> CD2:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil His Dues <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Greatest <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cupids Gonna Bleed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under Construction <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Been There Done That <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Grace <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sucker Punched<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Bones<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sin<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give Em' A Light<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Daddy Long Legs <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cut Me Mick<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tomorrow<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>A Perfect Day</b> <font color="#ffffff">A Perfect Day</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/aperfectday.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> APD</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> 2012</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</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">This Italian hard rock/progressive rock outfit is another band that is hardy to definite and review. <b>A Perfect Day</b> is a modern/contemporary sounding band with strong melodic passages of music intertwining itself around the rest of the music, which is largely melodic metal, delivered in an intricately progressive way.<br /> The songs aren't overly long as one might expect in a project like this, allowing for additional melodies and chorus hooks to present themselves without the lengthy instrumental passages progressive albums sometimes have.<br /> It takes a lot of listening to get into this album. A few quick listens are simply not enough.<br /> The intelligent arrangements and somewhat mellow and moody approach to songwriting are the reasons to be drawn back in. And the album is very well produced and mixed.<br /> Initially my biggest concern was for the lead vocals, which I didn't take to at all. They definitely take some time to get used to as they simply aren't as dominant as they could be. The singer's tone isn't overly melodic, yet the chorus and overall songs can be.<br /> <br /> Another album that requires listening prior to purchasing, due to the fact the style won't suit everyone and the lead vocals are a somewhat of an acquired taste. Good for what it is, but maybe not quite so great to make everyone pay attention.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Y&T</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At The Mystic</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/yandt-liveatthemystic.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> Y&T</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">21 tracks over 2 CDs celebrating the 30th Anniversary of one of the West Coast's most legendary rock bands. You can't really go wrong can you?<br /> Recorded at the iconic <b>Mystic Theater</b> in San Francisco in November 2011, and covering material from most of their career, this <b>Y&T</b> set is a pretty much essential purchase for fans of the band.<br /> The recording is a tad rough – but that's how I like my live recordings. No BS or overdubs here – just the raw live performance warts and all.<br /> Y&T are such a seasoned band, so there isn't much in the way of warts. But there's plenty of loud rock n roll and it's all been captured in a pretty good way, allowing for the volume to be cranked high like it should be.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Asia</b> <font color="#ffffff">Resonance</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/asia-resonance.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> Asia</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">Another <b>Asia</b> album means another Asia live album. So this is it. And this time it comes as a 2CD/1DVD set, so nice little bit of value there for Asia fans – who are going to be the only ones interested in this affair.<br /> But be aware this release is from the 2010 <font color="#00ffff">Omega</font> tour, not the current <font color="#00ffff">XXX</font> tour, so I guess we have yet another live album still to come! To be honest…it sounds great and the audio is well recorded and I have no doubt that this will sell a bunch.<br /> But to these ears the band are going through the motions and one look at the DVD reveals a band glued to their spots and a highly unmoving crowd that looked as if they were there to watch a concerto, not a rock concert.<br /> And the <font color="#00ffff">Omega</font> album was pretty disappointing for me, the energy just wasn't there. But without the visual distractions, the music sounds smooth and these 4 guys are truly great musicians.<br /> All the hits are here as usual, interspersed with three tracks from the Omega album. Good value but hardly essential.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Black Country Communion</b> <font color="#ffffff">Afterglow</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Eagle</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/blackcountrycommunion-afterglow.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> 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> 2012</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> 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.blackcountrycommunion.com" target="new">BCC</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">This album really should get a more detailed review, as it is arguably the band's best of their 3 records to date. But time marches on…<br /> The best aspect of this record is the cohesiveness of the material. So full credit must go to <b>Glenn Hughes</b> for that, as he was the sole writer this time around. He brings his A-Game here, with a record that sounds like a mix of <b>Led Zeppelin</b>, 70s <b>Deep Purple</b> and his own solo sound – most closely resembling the awesome Addiction record – all with a monster groove.<br /> That groove comes from Glenn and also drummer <b>Jason Bonham</b>, who is all over this record again with his relentless time keeping. I really do think he's one of the best drummers in rock n roll.<br /> The album is more uptempo across the whole record this time too, plus Glenn really sings his absolute heart out.<br /> And the guitar work of <b>Joe Bonamassa</b> is a revelation as always. <b>Derek Sherinian</b> gets plenty of time to prove that he is the next generation <b>Jon Lord</b>.<br /> Honestly – these are just four of the best rock musicians on the planet and together they just create beautiful music. They may not be a chorus band, but they make up for the lack of traditional anthems with true rock n roll groove.<br /> And my feet simply don't stop moving from the start to the finish of this album.<br /> Song highlight are obviously plentiful, but my favourites are the absolute groove of <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Sun</font>, the frantic <font color="#ffff00">Confessor</font>, the blues Bonamassa co-sung <font color="#ffff00">Cry Freedom</font>, and the arty Zeppelinish <font color="#ffff00">Afterglow</font> and the closing 70s Zep Fest of <font color="#ffff00">Crawl</font>.<br /> <br /> Just tremendous record all-round and utterly essential for fans of the 4 guys involved and the past two records together. Hughes fans will delight in his larger role on this record and are rewarded in spades. There has to be more BCC music. There will be. They are the most authentic rock band on the planet right now. </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>Yngwie Malmsteen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Spellbound</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/yngwiemalmsteen-spellbound.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> Yngwie</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> Yngwie</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Yngwie</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> Yngwie</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Yngwie</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.yngwiemalmsteen.com/" target="new">Yngwie</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>20%</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>Yngwie</b>, Yngwie, Yngwie, Yngwie. When will you learn old boy! Spend a penny (unfortunately that's what this album sounds like, and yes, I do mean the old colloquial phrase) and hire a bloody producer! And a mixer! And a singer! And a freeking drummer!<br /> Holy crap, if there ever was an example of an album featuring an oversupply of over-indulgence and over-confidence, this is it.<br /> The reality is though that coming off the back of a series of albums that haven't set the world on fire (another thing you could do with this record), something this bad surely has to be a career killer.<br /> This is the end of the line for <b>Yngwie Malmsteen</b> as we know it. And that's the only good thing about this record.<br /> I don't want to be unnecessarily mean to Yngwie. I've always appreciated the guy's talents and I actually like his shredfest playing a lot of the time. I also like his guitar tone. And I think <font color="#00ffff">Odyssey</font> with <b>JLT</b> and the albums with <b>JSS</b> are brilliant. But that was a long time ago.<br /> In recent times we had the awful <font color="#00ffff">War To End All Wars</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Relentless</font> and now this. How many stinkers is one artist allowed to deliver?<br /> Yngwie – you cannot produce or mix music. Stop the madness!<br /> <br /> This largely instrumental shredgasm affair cannot be judged on its merits as the sound is simply so bad, you can't bare to listen to the whole album in one sitting. It simply hurts my ears. It sounds more hollow that Paris Hilton's head.<br /> The guitar playing is there, but it sounds like the guitar is plugged directly into ProTools without any kind of quality testing.<br /> Then there is the fake drums that are almost impossible to hear (thank God I guess). <b>Rick Springfield</b> demoed his Working Class Dog album by playing drums on a pillow in his lounge room and still that sounds better than this.<br /> Then there is the horrendous mix. You can hear guitar obviously, but the rest is just a mush of noise. Drums and bass just sound like droning WWII plane engines.<br /> Then there is the singing. My God! Pavarotti he is not. Thankfully the mix is so bad, the out of tune mumbling can hardly be heard, but it is something I won't forget in a hurry. And it's only on 3 tracks (too many).<br /> <br /> I have no idea who Yngwie listens to – but if he ever reads this review – call me! He seriously needs someone to stand up to him and say <i>“Sir, this is just shit.”</i><br /> He needs A&R control, a proper band and a real actual producer. Nothing short of joining a proper band, or hiring <b>Joe Lynn Turner</b> and taking time to make sure he records the best album possible is going to save his career from oblivion.<br /> Yngwie – you're fired!</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Bon Jovi</b> <font color="#ffffff">Inside Out</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">iTunes</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/bonjovi-insideout.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> Bon Jovi</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 70</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> iTunes</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.bonjovi.com" target="new">Bon Jovi</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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>Bon Jovi</b> come out of nowhere and release their first exclusive to digital release – a live compilation album recorded over the past few tours and featuring an even mix of new tracks and old classics. Awesome to hear <font color="#ffff00">Blood On Blood</font> for example and <font color="#ffff00">Keep The Faith</font> is also fabulous, even if <b>Jon Bon Jovi</b> is phoning it in from his backstage lounge.<br /> The band is as tight as a piranha's jaw and can be seen to be on auto-pilot, but you can't fault the songs they have delivered over the years or their ability to still crank it out to an ever enthusiastic crowd.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's My Life</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Have A Nice Day</font> kick ass and <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be There For You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Wanted Dead Or Alive</font> still send a shiver up my spine. Like them once, still like them, never liked them….respect must be paid to <b>Bon Jovi</b> for lasting the distance, even when serving up the odd turkey instead of a golden egg.<br /> This is a nice compilation of tunes featuring enthusiastic audiences. Shame they cut the crowd noise in and out between tracks though. Hate that.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>FM</b> <font color="#ffffff">Only Foolin' EP</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Riff City</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/fm-onlyfoolin-ep.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> FM</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> 2012</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.fmofficial.com" target="new">FM Official</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">You won't find too many EPs that run this length. This is another essential purchase for fans of <b>FM</b> and British AOR in general. The two new songs are cracking good stuff, especially the very appealing <font color="#ffff00">Rainbow's End</font>.<br /> Then there is a marvelous FM-ized cover of <b>Ozzy's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Shot In The Dark</font>, which really actually harks back to <b>Wildlife</b>, the band vocalist <b>Steve Overland</b> was in with bassist <b>Phil Soussan</b>. The song was demoed at the time and played live, but when Soussan took it to Ozzy, he left off the Overland co-writing credit. So they are really covering themselves right?<br /> Anyway…the EP also adds no less than 5 lengthy, perfectly recorded live tracks from the last tour. And man, does the band sound fantastic on these. I really needed reminding what a killer live act these guys are.<br /> And rounding off the long EP is an 8 minute Extended Version of the single <font color="#ffff00">Only Foolin'</font> – I miss these kind of things.<br /> Go get it! Simple…</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sapphire Eyes</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sapphire Eyes</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/sapphireeyes.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> Niclas Olsen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Sapphrie Eyes</b> is the new project (from Sweden of course) featuring <b>Alyson Avenue's Niclas Olsson</b>, pairing this time with vocalist <b>Thomas Bursell</b> (who sings on all but 3 tracks), who Niclas worked with on <b>Second Heat</b> some time back.<br /> As with everything that Niclas has been involved with, this is another classy set of melodic rock/straight ahead Scandi-AOR tunes.<br /> This is the sweet and sugary stuff AOR purists eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner and I must say that it might just be the best work that Niclas has been involved with yet.<br /> You just won't find better than the brilliant <font color="#ffff00">You're My Wings</font> (<b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> on vocals) and <font color="#ffff00">I Want You To See Me</font> and the raspy, tougher <font color="#ffff00">Only Feel Love</font>.<br /> The monster ballad <font color="#ffff00">Can't Find The Word</font> sees Erlandsson going to the edge of his range to great passionate effect; while <b>Cloudscape's Mike Andersson</b> takes over lead for the mid-tempo melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">A Man The World Can Do Without</font>.<br /> The synth heavy <font color="#ffff00">Lay Down My Arms</font> closes the album with a moody edge.<br /> <br /> It's perfect <b>Last Autumn's Dream/Alyson Avenue</b> hybrid and one that fans of Scandi AOR should immediately investigate. Another very worthy traditional style melodic rock release from the groovy <b>Avenue Of Allies</b> label.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Wheels Of Fire</b> <font color="#ffffff">Up For Anything</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/wheelsoffire-upforanything.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> Davide Barbieri</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> 2012</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <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">Two and a half years after their debut album <font color="#00ffff">Hollywood Rocks</font>, Italian rockers <b>Wheels Of Fire</b> return with their second record <font color="#00ffff">Up For Anything</font>. The band has learned and grown from their debut, playing a lot of live shows and clearly getting a better handle on what it takes to create better records in the studio.<br /> Because on <font color="#00ffff">Up For Anything</font>, the band improve upon just about every aspect of the debut. The <b>Bon Jovi</b> friendly rockers use the same approach as the debut – uptempo, feel good melodic hard rock with an anthemic feel – but they add better sound and performances and better songs. This is just good commercial 80s influenced hard rock with a European touch.<br /> There isn't anything here that stands out as unique, but it is nevertheless a fun listen and will definitely find some fans – <b>Johnny Lima, Bon Jovi, Firehouse</b> and the like.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Danger Zone</b> <font color="#ffffff">Undying</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/dangerzone-undying.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> Roberto Priori & Jody Gray</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">Italy is fast becoming the new hot bed for emerging melodic rock bands. The latest is <b>Danger Zone</b>, who with their second album in hand, are ready to rock your world with an old-school 80s hard rock sound. The guys mix up a little bluesy rock with some straight forward American style hard rock, with a raspy singer that sounds a little like <b>Paul Shortino</b>.<br /> The album sounds quite impressive sonically and there's a good dose of harmony vocals throughout. The raspy, gravelly vocals with the slight Italian accent might be a bit to get used to, but the quality of the songs makes up for any issue there.<br /> The best thing on offer here is some big crunchy guitar parts and some energetic songs. Fans of European hard rock with an American edge and gravelly, yet appealing lead vocals, should check this out.<br /> It's very good for what it is.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>F.E.A.S.T.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Strong, Wild and Free</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/feast-strongwildfree.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> Fabri Kiareli</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 64</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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>Avenue Of Allies</b> have been feasting (sorry!) on a slew of great releases in this, the back end of 2012. A number of them are sophomore releases from their artists – <b>F.E.A.S.T.</b> being yet another. Like their label counterparts, this Italian melodic hard rock outfit have also stepped up their game and delivered an album that tops their debut.<br /> This is an energetic old-school hard rock release in the vein of <b>Whitesnake, Dokken</b> and maybe <b>Ratt</b>, with a raspy higher pitch vocal that also brings in some <b>AC/DC</b> comparisons. This is a guitar record. Lots of guitar! And lots of riffing on that guitar. But it also features a solid rhythm section, very solid production and most importantly some catchy material.<br /> For fans of honest, no bullshit hard rock with a slight European flavor – check these guys out. </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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sven Larsson</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bad Mad Man</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Aveue Of Allies</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/svenlarsson-badmadman.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> Sven Larsson & Per Ryberg</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> 2012</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> Westcost/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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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>Street Talk</b> guitarist <b>Sven Larsson</b> is back with solo album number two. He's been busy contributing to other AoA releases such as <b>Lionville, Sapphire Eyes</b> and <b>Coastland Ride</b>. Here he gets to shine on his own, with some polished melodic rock/AOR tunes.<br /> The opening track features Sven on vocals himself – the very impressive <font color="#ffff00">Dance The Night Away</font> is pure Westcoast AOR. <font color="#ffff00">Sin City</font> features <b>Street Talk</b> vocalist <b>Goran Edman</b> in his usual fine form – same too with the 7 minute prog-friendly mid-album track <font color="#ffff00">Missing Link</font>.<br /> <b>Thomas Eriksson</b> features on the impressive prog-AOR track <font color="#ffff00">Missing Link</font>, which is another album highlight.<br /> The second half of the album sees the heavier tone abandoned for a softer, more laid back Westcoast set of songs which for me aren't as captivating as the first 6 songs. The album is more or less split into two personalities.<br /> But there is no denying the talent of Larsson, nor the quality of the production here.<br /> Two instrumentals will appeal to fans of <b>Steve Lukather</b> and his style of letting the guitar do the talking.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jimi Jamison</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At Firefest</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Firefest</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FFR006 </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/jimijamison-liveatfirefest.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> 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> 64</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.firefestofficial.com/" target="new">Firefest</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</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">Jimi's already scored a perfect 100 for his new studio album, so as if to back up the fact that he remains one of the scene's best ever vocalists, comes this live album from <b>Firefest 2010</b>.<br /> Backed by members of <b>H.E.A.T.</b> and guitarist <b>Tommy Denander</b>, Jimi ripped through one of the best sounding sets of Firefest history, filled with classic songs from <b>Survivor</b> and his own solo career.<br /> I give <b>Tommy Denander</b> a hard time sometimes for his repetitive guitar sound, but here he sounds absolutely fabulous. The guitar work is terrific and the soloing more impressive and looser than you hear on his records and the energy in which the band delivers these songs largely comes from the way Tommy attacks these songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Caught In The Game</font> and <font color="#ffff00">It's The Singer Not The Song</font> take the crowd from zero to a hundred before the melodic anthems <font color="#ffff00">High On You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Is This Love</font> give the crowd time to sing along.<br /> The guitar intro to <font color="#ffff00">Didn't Know It Was Love</font> was the only moment I wondered what Tommy was playing, but once the song cranked in, it was glorious.<br /> I love the fact Jimi throws in the song <font color="#ffff00">A Dream Too Far</font> from the <font color="#00ffff">Empires</font> record and backs that up with the then new solo classic <font color="#ffff00">Crossroads Moment</font>. Brilliant stuff.<br /> If that all isn't enough, the last quarter of the set features the all-out melodic rock bliss of <font color="#ffff00">Rebel Son, Burning Heart, Eye Of The Tiger</font> and Jimi's solo hit <font color="#ffff00">I'm Always There</font>.<br /> The mix is brilliant, the rhythm section is pounding, the keyboards are right up there clear and fresh and Tommy just plays all over these songs.<br /> <br /> Not only is this set one of the best ever Firefest has seen, it's made one of the best live albums in a long long time. I just can't recommend this enough.<br /> PS. There is an accompanying DVD. Get them both!</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kane Roberts</b> <font color="#ffffff">Unsung Radio</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Unsung 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/kaneroberts-unsungradio.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> Kane Roberts & Various</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.firefestofficial.com/" target="new">Firefest</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">This neat little <b>Kane Roberts</b> Firefest release comprises of 2CDs featuring music from the various sessions that would become the <b>Phoenix Down</b> record. The first disc is the actual Phoenix Down project recorded for <b>Now & Then Music</b> in 1999.<br /> The album was well received at the time and it features a few absolute cracking melodic rock anthems. I think the production at the time was good, but it now sounds a little below par due to the improvements in many productions since and the fact we are now used to and expect grade A sound every time.<br /> Some great songs though, none better than the manic <font color="#ffff00">Reckless</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Love Gone Wrong</font> (written with <b>Jim Peterik</b>).<br /> The interesting part of this set for collectors is Disc 2 – unreleased demos from the time – including three more co-writes with <b>Jim Peterik</b>. <font color="#ffff00">Blue Highway</font> in particular standing out as a winner. Some good unheard tunes here and a must have for fans of Kane Roberts.<br /> The quality is great too. Very good sound for demos. Kane adds vocal commentary in-between many of the tracks, which is always good to hear, the only thing I would say here is that there is nowhere within the nice booklet or cover that shows what track numbers songs are on Disc 2, so it's a bit hit and miss to find certain songs among the commentary.<br /> Who would turn down 11 unreleased <b>Kane Roberts</b> tracks? Go get it!</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pete Lesperance</b> <font color="#ffffff">Fade Into Stars</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/petelesperance-fadeintostars.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> iTunes</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Singer-Songwriter / Modern 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.petelesperance.com" target="new">Pete Lesperance</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="195"> <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">This should also be given a bigger review, but it one sense, not that much room is needed to describe this new solo album from the great <b>Harem Scarem</b> guitarist. This album is not Pete's usual fare, nor anything close to the melodic rock of Harem Scarem. So some may be disappointed. But Pete has made no secret of his direction here, so fans that follow Pete were well aware this was to be a change of pace.<br /> What it is, is a laid back, stripped back pop orientated singer/songwriter album, with acoustic guitar and piano taking a more prominent role. The style established, it won't be for everyone at all. But to those that like a dose of contemporary, mellower singer/songwriter material, Pete hits the spot.<br /> His voice has a great tone as always and the songs – while taking a little more time to grow perhaps – do have strong appeal. For fans of <b>Rubber</b>-lite.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Eric Martin</b> <font color="#ffffff">Mr. Rock Vocalist</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sony Japan</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SICP-3587 </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/ericmartin-mrrockvocalist.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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.ericmartin.com" target="new">Eric Martin</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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"><font color="#00ffff">Mr. Rock Vocalist</font> is the latest installment of the <b>Eric Martin</b> invasion of Japan series. The singer is bigger than Elvis there and his <font color="#00ffff">Mr. Vocalist</font> series (1, 2 & 3 + Christmas and Live releases) can now be added to with <font color="#00ffff">Mr. Rock Vocalist</font> (Volume 1, no doubt).<br /> This is a little different to the <font color="#00ffff">Mr. Vocalist</font> series as it features a full rock band belting out some great tunes with that unmistakable voice up front. I don't have any credits, so I have no idea who the band is, but they sound great and the production is modern, crunchy and in your face.<br /> The material is the same as the other Vocalist releases – contemporary Japanese pop/rock songs, converted (sometimes from Japanese lyrics) for Eric to sing – more in his solo vein.<br /> The style is a little pop/punkish, hard rocking mostly, but also straight forward melodic rock in places. I wasn't familiar with any of these tunes previously, so it sounds like a fresh hard rock album in the vein of Eric's <font color="#00ffff">Destroy All Monsters</font> solo release.<br /> Not all of it flows from track to track as a 'normal' solo album might – this feels more like the compilation of songs it is. But it rocks and Eric sounds great, so I guess that makes it another must have for fans.<br /> No sign of a release outside of Japan at this stage though.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Mr. Big</b> <font color="#ffffff">Raw Like Sushi 100</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Victor 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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/mrbig-rawlikesushi100.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> Mr. Big</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 2CD </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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 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.mrbigsite.com" target="new">Mr. Big</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>96%</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"><font color="#00ffff">Raw Like Sushi 100</font> – the special box set double disc live release from <b>Mr. Big</b> costs a packet, but is worth every cent. The live performance on this album is just awesome. The production is raw and in your face as the band charts through their whole career (except the Kotzen albums), celebrating their 100th show in Japan.<br /> The set list is stunning, with all albums featured and a stack of tracks from the <font color="#00ffff">What If…</font> album included. They all sound brilliant and the band is simply on fire. The interplay between Sheehan and Torpey and Gilbert is something to behold and there is just something about listening to these guys play live together that totally does it for me.<br /> It's now out of print – but there is now a 2CD only set in HQCD that is cheaper to buy and still in print. This needs to be purchased <b>Mr. Big</b> fans. You need this! The Box Set contains the DVD from the event too. The guys are simply the tightest band on the planet.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Various Artists</b> <font color="#ffffff">Addicted To Mr. Big (Tribute)</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Nat Team Media</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/mrbig-addictedto-tribute.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> 2012</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> Various</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.natteammedia.com" target="new">Nat Team Media</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>35%</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">Those folks in Spain like <b>Mr. Big</b> too! So much so that they went and made a tribute album to them. <font color="#00ffff">Addicted To Mr. Big</font> features a bunch of bands no one has ever heard of (outside of Spain at least) and one we have heard of – <b>Guru</b>.<br /> Love those guys, and they tackle two songs on this 11 track tribute.<br /> And the 2 best songs at that – they rip through <font color="#ffff00">Daddy Brother Lover Little Boy</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Addicted To That Rush</font>. And they sound killer doing it!<br /> But that's about the only reason for general rock fans to buy this. Elsewhere is very much a hit and miss affair though. Mainly miss. You've got varying production quality, varying performance quality and a few very heavy accents going on too, but at the end of the day, none of the actual songs suck as they are all classics, right?<br /> Er…well, <b>Malos Tragos</b> do try and kill <font color="#ffff00">To Be With You</font> with their frenetic punked up “interpretation” of the ballad and they unfortunately appear again killing <font color="#ffff00">Green Tinted Sixties Mind</font> also. I could do without ever hearing those covers again.<br /> Junts (?) do a pretty decent version of <font color="#ffff00">Shine</font> (even in production is horrible); <font color="#ffff00">Just Take My Heart</font> gets a female symphonic take; <font color="#ffff00">Colorado Bulldog</font> gets whipped within an inch of its life by growling metal band; <font color="#ffff00">Wild World</font> sounds as genuinely Spanish as the Inquisition itself; <font color="#ffff00">Lucky This Time</font> is pretty straight forward and the singer sounds as if his life depends on getting it right; the band Litus have an attempt to get <font color="#ffff00">To Be With You</font> right; and <font color="#ffff00">Little Too Loose</font> by <b>Victor Estevez</b> is stripped back to a swampy acoustic blues number.<br /> Very varied and very iffy overall. It will take a true die-hard <b>Mr. Big</b> fan to appreciate this set. The <b>Guru</b> tracks save the day (and my ears).</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Trail Of Murder</b> <font color="#ffffff">Shades Of Art</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</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/trailofmurder-shadesofart.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> Trail Of Murder</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Trail Of Murder</b> is a new Swedish melodic metal outfit that features the welcome return of vocalist <b>Urban Breed</b>, together with guitarist <b>Daniel Olsson</b>, drummer <b>Pelle Åkerlind</b> (Bloodbound). This debut album is an impressive affair for fans of melodic metal or tougher hard rock, especially those that have followed <b>Urban Breed</b> through <b>Tad Morose</b> and <b>Bloodbound</b>.<br /> There's a lot of attention paid to the songs here, which are tough, moody rockers, but all with hooks to remember. There are some really good songs here – very melodic despite the heaviness of the music. Stand outs include <font color="#ffff00">Shades Of Art, Lady Don't Answer, Carnivore, I Know Shadows</font> and the brilliant heavy anthem <font color="#ffff00">Not For The Faint Of Heart</font>.<br /> One of the best heavy (yet melodic) albums I've heard this year. Fans of Urban Breed and Bloodbound and European melodic metal need to check this out. </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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Delta Goodrem</b> <font color="#ffffff">Child Of The Universe</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sony Australia</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/deltagoodrem-childoftheuniverse.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> 2012</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> 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.deltagoodrem.com.au" target="new">Delta Goodrem</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">The Aussie songstress that folks were beginning to doubt roars back with one of the very best female fronted pop albums I've heard in years. There isn't much rocking going on here, but it is perfectly produced modern pop/power pop with some simply stunning songs.<br /> With a recent break up behind her, these songs are incredibly personal and at times, bitingly emotional. And the thing that makes this album so appealing is the almost impossibly good vocals. They are stunning to the point of being breathtaking. Her range is insane.<br /> Highlights are plentiful. There is the opening rock anthem <font color="#ffff00">Child Of The Universe</font>; the channeling of <b>Stevie Nicks</b> on the moody <font color="#ffff00">Touch</font>; the haunting piano ballad perfection of <font color="#ffff00">Wish You Were Here</font>; the <b>Kelly Clarkson</b> inspired <font color="#ffff00">Knocked Out</font> and the absolutely brilliant feel good <font color="#ffff00">Standing On Top Of The World</font>.<br /> Then there is the gut wrenching piano/vocal only of <font color="#ffff00">I'm Not Ready</font>, which will rip your heart out with unworldly vocals that haunt you long after the song has finished. One of the best pure ballads I have ever heard. That's followed by the <b>Kate Bush</b> like angst filled uptempo pop/rock song <font color="#ffff00">Hunters And The Wolves</font>. And that's just the first 7 tracks. Phew.<br /> Fans of female fronted melodic music and contemporary pop needs to find this album whatever you do. The special edition comes with a bonus disc of acoustic versions. Just awesome.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Docker's Guild</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Mystic Technocracy - Season 1</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/dockersguild-season1.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> Donald Docker</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 79</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">Its taken me forever to review this album – mainly because I simply didn't know what to do with it. It's one of the more eclectic prog rock releases I've covered here, so now I must attempt to review it. Basically it is 80 minutes of unconventional epic classic rock, progged up to within an inch of its life. And this is only part one of five!!<br /> Over to the bio: “<b>Docker's Guild</b> is the solo effort of <b>Douglas R. Docker</b>, who put his talent and writing skill into <font color="#00ffff">The Mystic Technocracy</font>, an opera which unfolds over 5 seasons. The first season, called <font color="#00ffff">“Season I: The Age of Ignorance”</font>, sees the participation of worldwide acclaimed musicians like <b>Gregg Bissonette</b> (David Lee Roth / Joe Satriani), <b>Magnus Jacobson</b> (Miss Behavior), <b>Tony Franklin</b> (Blue Murder), <b>Guthrie Govan</b> (Asia), <b>Jeff Watson</b> (Night Ranger), <b>John Payne</b> (Asia), <b>Göran Edman</b> (ex Yngwie Malmsteen, Karmakanic), <b>Amanda Somerville</b> (Avantasia / Epica), <b>Tony Mills</b> (TNT/ Shy) and many others…”<br /> This album is really quite amazing. But it takes a lot of time to get into it and to understand it. Both <b>John Payne</b> and <b>Tony Mills</b> deliver some great vocals and the music, while challenging, can be quite catchy too. Eventually!<br /> Fans of <b>Yes, ELP, Dream Theater</b> and <b>Genesis</b> will find interest here. There are some truly confusing moments within the album, but then there are passages of just pure melodic brilliance (such as track 6 <font color="#ffff00">Judeo-Christian Cosmogony</font>. Catchy title eh?)<br /> The album is exactly what it says on the tin – <i>“lives on its own sounds which is a very personal mixture of progressive roots played and crafted by mainly AOR musicians.”</i><br /> The songwriting and vocal arrangements have also been inspired by melodic rock and AOR acts, mostly Asia and Journey. There is a distinct 80s feel to many tracks too.<br /> Tracks range from 2 to 11 minutes in length.<br /> There is so much to listen to here that I was initially gun shy about sitting through multiple listens, but once I did, I was suitable rewarded. For those that like it quirky, but melodic.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Adrenaline Mob</b> <font color="#ffffff">Omerta</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Elm City 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/adrenalinemob-omerta.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> A Mob</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> 2012</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 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.adrenalinemob.com" target="new">Adrenaline Mob</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">Shame on me for not reviewing one of the year's best metal albums before now. It is one title that simply fell through the cracks. This is another one of those tough, uncompromising types of records that just blasts energy from the start to the finish.<br /> Vocalist <b>Russell Allen</b> sounds menacing and fierce throughout and drummer <b>Mike Portnoy</b> makes up for his disappointing departure from <b>Dream Theater</b> with a powerhouse performance of non-stop rhythm.<br /> This is a super heavy album and it barely stops to take a breath. Allen uses his “gruff” voice here – he's in full metal mode as opposed to the smoother vocal used on the Allen/Lande records.<br /> The band's cover of <b>Duran Duran's</b> <font color="#ffff00">Come Undone</font> is quite inspired too. It's one of those moments where you sit up and go, sure….this works! Who would have thought?<br /> Overall, a truly solid, uncompromising melodic metal record.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Rival Sons</b> <font color="#ffffff">Head Down</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Earache Records Ltd </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/rivalsons-headdown.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> Dave Cobb</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> 2012</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> Retro Hard/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.rivalsons.com" target="new">Rival Sons</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="195"> <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">This one of those releases that folks will either love or hate due to the direction of the material. As a reviewer, I have to keep an open mind for all styles, even when they aren't necessarily my day to day listening choice. <b>Rival Sons</b> is one such release. I'm not usually a retro rockhead. I'm a 80s kid primarily. But this is so good – it might just convert me – temporarily at least!<br /> <b>Rival Sons</b> send me so deep into the 70s that a psychedelic, doobie smoking, rainbow colored donkey with flared pants and an afro could walk by and it wouldn't seem out of place. This is boogie rock n roll country with heavy <b>Bad Company, Free, Led Zep</b> influences throughout.<br /> The vocals are clear and appealing in that <b>Paul Rodgers, Wolfmother</b> style and the production and associated retro effects and occasional distortion is so authentic, it sounds like it was recorded on Haight & Asbury in 1973.<br /> The songs are really appealing for the style and if the above descriptions bring curiosity, then check this out. It's one of the better retro albums I've heard.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gypsy Rose</b> <font color="#ffffff">Poisoned By Love</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FNA 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/gypsyrose-poisonedbylove.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> Gypsy Rose</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 59</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.fnarecords.net" target="new">FNA 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">Yes, this is the same <b>Gypsy Rose</b>, whose debut album Prey found itself a fan base at the turn of a decade 20 years back. This is an archive release – as <b>FNA Records</b> do so well – with a couple of new versions of classic songs (<font color="#ffff00">Poisoned By Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Don't Turn Your Back On Me Now</font>) plus two brand new original mixes of those 2 tracks and a host of other unreleased tracks that fans of the band will appreciate.<br /> Sonically speaking, the quality is very up and down – some great and a couple that are barely listenable (but clearly great songs). Fallin' is a classic in the making – shame it sounds so horrible here.<br /> And there is 2 new solo tracks from vocalist <b>Michael Ross</b> included which show another side to the singer. An interesting addition to the band's known recordings and one for fans of that debut to check out for sure.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Creature</b> <font color="#ffffff">To Boldly Sleaze</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FNA 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/creature-toboldlysleaze.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> Creature</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.fnarecords.net" target="new">FNA 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</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>Creature</b> were being driven by famed Kiss manager <b>Bill Aucoin</b> during the 80s, so it's no surprise to see a heavy influence from the kings of glam in these songs. Add in some <b>Slaughter</b> and <b>Faster Pussycat</b> and early 80s <b>Crue</b> and you might get an idea what the screechy lead vocal style Creature are all about.<br /> This is high energy, in your face glam hard rock with a typically early-mid 80s sound and production values to match. And the high pitch vocals are a matter of taste.<br /> Another archive release – but one that fans of this era might find some enjoyment from. There's definitely a few fillers here and the sound is pretty thin, but if the idea of a band having an oversized Sleaze-O-Matic machine on stage in which <i>“a pure, virginal school girl stepped into the machine where the dial was cranked to ten, and a rock-n-roll slutty metal chick stepped out”</i>…then check this out!</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kidd Blue</b> <font color="#ffffff">Big Trouble (Expanded)</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FNA 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/kiddblue-bigtrouble-extended.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> Kidd Blue</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 66</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.fnarecords.net" target="new">FNA 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</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">This is an expanded edition of an archive release for US rockers <b>Kidd Blue</b>. This release adds six more never-before-released tracks to the <font color="#00ffff">Big Trouble</font> album.<br /> First to the original album – a collection of unreleased, but professionally recorded demos that were tracked in the mid-late 80s. The band really had it going on back in the day and were unlucky not to have been picked up alongside the likes of <b>Warrant, Ratt</b> and <b>Bon Jovi</b>. These are demos, so the sound is a little hollow and thin, but it is still good enough to crank and enjoy and FNA did a cool job of remastering the material.<br /> Some good songs here for collectors of the American “hair” scene from the 80s.<br /> The additional 6 tracks are a further step back in production quality – but not in song strength. Would like to have heard all these in official label release quality.<br /> Another one for fans of 80s archives to check out.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Tragic Romance</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hollywood Daze</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FNA 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/tragicromance-hollywooddaze.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> Tragic Romance</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 68</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.fnarecords.net" target="new">FNA 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">Formed in late 1987 in Los Angeles, <b>Tragic Romance</b> was a bruising yet soaring powerhouse that rocked both the Sunset Strip and the coolest and darkest underground clubs LA had to offer. The band swapped their glam-ish look and style for a darker sound in the early 90s but never got off the ground despite fan and critical acclaim in their native city.<br /> You've got two brand new tracks here – which is always a nice addition. <font color="#ffff00">Little Miss Innocent</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Shameless</font> are both pretty good uptempo 80s sounding glam rock tunes. The rest of the tunes are quite varied from glam/hard rock to semi-experimental early 90s alt-rock – showcasing the band in transition. Those songs are however not another attempt at a grunge-cash in. They are just quirky.<br /> It kinda reminds me of <b>Bang Tango</b> in places. The recordings aren't quite as solid as other FNA releases, but it certainly has its place in the annals of rock history.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Godz</b> <font color="#ffffff">Mongolians</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FNA 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/godz-mongolians.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> The Godz</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 37</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.fnarecords.net" target="new">FNA 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">Crunching guitars, raspy vocals and in your face American rock n roll. That sums up <b>The Godz</b>, a band that has been going since the 70s and has influences from other such icons of that era – <b>ZZ Top, Kiss</b> and the like.<br /> This 10 track “archive” release is composed of 7 tracks from the import-only album <font color="#00ffff">I'll Get You Rockin'</font> (released only in Europe) and includes three new tracks (<font color="#ffff00">Criminal Minds, Mongolians, Burning Bridges</font>). The original Mongolians release came out in 1987.<br /> So you know what you are getting folks – a high energy mix of 70s and 80s American rock that takes no prisoners.<br /> The material has aged yes, but it's not nearly as dated as some other material of that era and the 3 brand new tracks are as authentic as the rest of the bands material. </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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>David A Saylor</b> <font color="#ffffff">City Of Angels</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Boulevard 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/davidasaylor-cityofangels.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> David A Saylor</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> 2012</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> 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.aorblvdrecords.com" target="new">AOR Blvd 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>77%</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>David A Saylor</b> - one man AOR machine. Yes, everything on this release is played, written and produced by the man himself. That means a fair slice of programming and no real emphasis on any one instrument – besides his voice of course.<br /> Thankfully his voice does make up for the lack of real drums, it's a pretty likable pure AOR voice – deeper perhaps than what is the norm. I'm thinking <b>John Parr</b>-lite.<br /> David once fronted <b>Push UK</b> and works as an acclaimed vocalist in Spanish speaking territories. This album is a very soft and sweet pure British AOR release.<br /> There is a few covers amongst the originals. <font color="#ffff00">Hands To Heaven</font> is very familiar yet I can't recall where from (great ballad); <font color="#ffff00">Inside Love</font> is a crunchier melodic rocker and <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Want To Wait Anymore</font> is a cover of the <b>Tubes'</b> ballad.<br /> In-between these are some very good songs, albeit very very laid back.<br /> At 40 minutes in length, it's about just right. Any longer and it might have dragged due to the slower tempo.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Cannon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Burning Love</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/cannon-burninglove.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> Cannon</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> 2012</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</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">This is a traditional old school metal album with double kick drum rhythm throughout and a raspy screechy vocalist doing his best to sound like singing.<br /> It's ok, but doesn't do a lot for me, despite the inclusion of some big guitar moments and some crunching 'eavy metal moments.<br /> Production is passable – nothing outstanding – but decent enough.<br /> Songs – much the same. It's very much a take it or leave it release for me and I would think many others also.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fraze Gang</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">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/frazegang-2.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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>Brighton Rock's Greg Fraser</b> is the man behind the band – fronting the band and playing guitars, not to mention producing the album. And for the betterment of the tunes, <b>Beau Hill</b> handled the mixing and mastering.<br /> So it's a solid, tight melodic hard rock record on offer here. <b>Brighton Rock</b> fans will definitely find a lot to like, even with the deeper, less seasoned vocals of Fraser up front.<br /> This reminds me of other guitarists turned frontmen albums like the cool <b>Paul Dean</b> release and the <b>Steve Jones</b> solo album <font color="#00ffff">Mercy</font>.<br /> Guitars definitely rule the day and the album has a contemporary vibe, with some crunching guitars proving to be the album's driving force. It's a no nonsense release – think <b>AC/DC</b> kind of attitude.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fatal Smile</b> <font color="#ffffff">21st Century Freaks</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FS Records/GMR</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/fatalsmile-21stcenturyfreaks.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> Mr. V</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> 2012</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 / Sleaze / 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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">Gruff, brash, take no prisoners, in your face….you name it – Sweden's glam/sleaze/metal kings take control from the first note and don't let go for nearly 50 minutes.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Welcome To The Freakshow</font> is a pretty apt title. The band play an uncompromising style of Euro-metal crossed with <b>Shotgun Messiah, Motley Crue</b> on speed, <b>Judas Priest, Black Sabbath</b>…you get the idea.<br /> It's not for everybody as this album (the band) is pretty different, but that said, you won't find a better sounding record in this genre – the sound is huge and it really bursts through the speakers, grabs you by the neck and beats you senseless.<br /> For those that like it louder than loud and bigger than big.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jackyl</b> <font color="#ffffff">Best In Show</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/jackyl-bestinshow.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> Jackyl</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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://rockmerollmejackylmeoff.com/" target="new">Jackyl</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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"><font color="#00ffff">Best In Show</font> says the title on the cover. Not likely. This isn't even the worst in show. This wouldn't even get on the “show” short list. <b>Jackyl</b> were a pretty decent band back in their day, with the raspy screams of singer <b>Jesse Dupree</b>. I heard someone describe this as the best album since their debut. Sorry, I can't understand that at all. It sounds out of date and out of step with what other bands of that era are delivering today.<br /> This sounds rough and under produced and I can't say any other songs really stayed with me past the listening time of the album. The brazen sleazy lyrics have dated badly and the voice of Dupree has seen better says if this is anything to go by.<br /> Jackyl die-hards only.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Order</b> <font color="#ffffff">1986</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/theorder-1986.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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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"><font color="#00ffff">1986</font> is the name of the fourth album from Swiss rockers <b>The Order</b>. The fact that I've been here 15 years and have missed their prior 3 albums probably doesn't bode well.<br /> They are signed to <b>Massacre Records</b>, but I haven't seen any promo or push for this album at all. And while they guys are clearly basing their music and attitude back in 1986, sales of this album won't match what could have been 20 years ago.<br /> Sales probably won't match expectations now even, as there isn't much here to gain traction in an overcrowded market place.<br /> The band's hard edge guitar riffing style is straight out of the <b>Dokken, Motley Crue</b> and <b>Van Hagar</b> playbook, except this is more a little league album, not good enough for the major leagues.<br /> The production is ok, but the singer isn't the most appealing and we've heard everything here before.<br /> <i>Long Live Rock N Roll</i> they sing. Indeed, but it isn't likely to live on through these guys.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Andy Rock</b> <font color="#ffffff">Into The Night</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/andyrock-intothenight.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 Rock & Chris Siloma</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">Greek guitarist <b>Andy Rock</b> (of <b>Wild Rose</b>) sets out on his solo debut to deliver an album of softer pure AOR instead of the Bon Jovi style rock of <b>Wild Rose</b>. This is all very nice and such and Andy has an ok voice. But the main problem here is that it has all been done 10,000 times before and done better at that.<br /> Really, there is nothing wrong with the album at all, but it's very familiar and I simply don't think the market place has enough room for albums that don't stand out or offer something a little special, otherwise they just get lost in the crowd.<br /> Plenty of fluffy keyboards here and some soft tone guitars. The vocals are ok – not great – and the material doesn't surprise at all.<br /> Nothing wrong with it at all, just nothing new on offer.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Flying Colors</b> <font color="#ffffff">Flying Colors</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/flyingcolors.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> Flying Colors</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> 2012</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 Rock / 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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Quite a few musicians asked me what I thoughts of this album – as they all love it. And that's the best description I can give here. This is a true musicians album. With the brilliance of the guys involved (<b>Neal Morse, Steve Morse, Portnoy, Dave Larue</b> and <b>Casey McPherson</b>), there is no question about how great the performances are here, nor how fabulous the sound/production is.<br /> It's truly a work of art.<br /> But appeal will certainly be something else. The musical style is all over the shop – from progressive hard rock, to classic rock to introspective ballads to acoustic to extended jams…to just plain, er, well “different”.<br /> This no not an easy album to get to know, but there is no way to measure how cool it is to sit back and just absorb talented musicians doing what they do best and playing off each other.<br /> So without any further deep analysis, I'll just say that if you like to hear the best of the best doing what they do best – all wrapped up into a very diverse range of rock influenced styles…..check this out if you haven't already.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Fatal Force</b> <font color="#ffffff">Unholy Rites</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</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/fatalforce-unholyrites.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> 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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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="195"> <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>Metal Heaven</b> wisely picked this up for retail distribution after it was initially offered for digital sale.<br /> This melodic metal album is the brainchild of <b>Torben Enevoldsen</b>, who has enlisted the vocal talents of <b>Michael Vescera</b> to handle the intensity of this album's material.<br /> Well produced and well mixed, plus with the established voice of Vescera in control, the second <b>Fatal Force</b> album is definitely one for metal fans to check out. It's not too heavy and harmony vocals add some additional melodies to the chorus and verse hooks.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>John Parr</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Mission</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">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/johnparr-themission.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> John Parr</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> 2012</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</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.johnparr.net" target="new">John Parr</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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"><font color="#00ffff">The Mission</font> is JP's new studio album and I think probably an essential purchase for fans of the British singer. Mixing it up between melodic rock anthems and soft acoustic numbers, John sounds in great voice and rips through some great tracks.<br /> The only problem is the stop/start nature of the material – swapping in and out of acoustic mode, the album doesn't always flow as well as it could.<br /> The album varies quite a bit in production quality too – this sounds like it was recorded over several studios/variants in conditions.<br /> But there is definitely something about Parr's voice that I have always loved and it's nice to hear a number of full band/uptempo numbers on here, even if the acoustic driven tracks could have been cut back by one or two.<br /> No complaints about lyrical depth though – many songs here take on the subject of troops at war and paying tribute to them. A very worthy subject.<br /> Recommended for Parr fans. His best in a while.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Richie Sambora</b> <font color="#ffffff">Aftermath Of The Lowdown</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Dangerbird</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/richiesambora-aftermathofthelowdown.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Sambora</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.richiesambora.com" target="new">Richie Sambora</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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>Bon Jovi</b> guitarist <b>Richie Sambora</b> finally releases a third solo album after two acclaimed previous releases, his last one being as far back as 1998. Obviously the guitarist has been kept busy in <b>Bon Jovi</b>, but as some fans question that band's ability to rock, many have been anticipating this solo album as an answer to that problem. This is a complex record.<br /> It is complex because it doesn't reach the highs expected of it…and it also features some strange production choices and due to the diversity within, the sequencing of tracks makes for a very chop and change flow.<br /> But at the same time, there are a few absolute classics that only Richie could deliver with his passionate vocals and very personal songs.<br /> I really love some parts of this record and merely accept some other parts. This is after rating Richie's 1991 debut <font color="#00ffff">Stranger In This Town</font> as one of the great mood albums of the 90s.<br /> It is an album best tackled track by track.<br /> <br /> Opening with the expected swagger of guitars, <font color="#ffff00">Burn the Candle Down</font> has all the hall marks of a great Sambora rock track, but is nearly destroyed by the completely unnecessary use of distorted and effects driven vocals. A very strange decision in my mind.<br /> The feel good redemption themed anthem <font color="#ffff00">Every Road Leads Home to You</font> is an instant classic for me and what I expected more of in this album. Sadly it's the only track like it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Taking A Chance On The Wind</font> has energy, but the rootsy blues rocker doesn't fit into this position in the album. I would have relegated it further back.<br /> Nowadays sees Richie try out his forth style in four tracks. No wonder this album was hard to get my head around initially. The modern pop-punky style of this fat rocker also features some distorted vocals and isn't a natural fit for Sambora's style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Weathering the Storm</font> is a slow blues ballad with a good chorus and is a likable song; I just feel it loses some impact due to <font color="#ffff80">Taking A Chance On The Wind</font> being a similar vibe.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sugar Daddy</font> is yet another sharp left turn and this one is down the wrong road. Who wants to hear Richie doing peach-fuzz psychedelic 60s music with distorted vocals? The actual base song itself is ok – but the choice of direction and production is puzzling. It could have been a great straight ahead rocker. And what's with all this vocal distortion and effects? Richie has one of the most soulful voices in rock n roll and it kills me to hear it buried beneath all this crap.<br /> The soft acoustic ballad <font color="#ffff00">I'll Always Walk Beside You</font> finally features a stark and honest, raw lead vocal and the listener is rewarded.<br /> The modern rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Seven Years Gone</font> is another classic Sambora ballad with another killer vocal. But again – choice of sequencing could have been better.<br /> The thumping rocker <font color="#ffff00">Learnin' How To Fly With A Broken Wing</font> is an effects free modern rocker that could easily fit onto a recent <b>Bon Jovi</b> album and be the stand out track.<br /> The 6 minute plus long slow ballad <font color="#ffff00">You Can Only Get So High</font> is another misplaced track in this badly ordered album, but what a wonderful song. Soulful, emotional and inspiring…a stand out vocal from Richie.<br /> Closing the official album is yet another ballad (really that's one too many now) and it's also the least effective. The short, slow acoustic driven 70s inspired track just doesn't gain my attention at all.<br /> There is the bonus track <font color="#ffff00">Backseat Driver</font>, which is a needed rocker, but again it's spoilt by effects on the vocals, despite a pretty decent chorus.</font><br />   <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"> Sadly this isn't the answer for those looking for an old-school rock album from the guitarist. Those that have been blaming Jon Bon Jovi for the lack of spark in his namesake band can now look to Richie as being equally responsible.<br /> While there are some stand out classic tracks, those songs are surrounded by a number of fillers and as stated, the distorted/modernized vocal effects really do take the shine off several tracks. The album gets better after repeated listens, but it doesn't come anywhere close to the brilliance of <font color="#00ffff">Stranger In This Town</font> and even ranks behind the mellower <font color="#00ffff">Undiscovered Soul</font>.</font><br />   <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> Stranger In This Town<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Undiscovered Soul<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Aftermath Of The Lowdown</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 /> <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>Richie Sambora</b> - Undiscovered Soul</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> Burn That Candle Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Every Road Leads Home to You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Taking a Chance On the Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nowadays<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Weathering the Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sugar Daddy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Always Walk Beside You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seven Years Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Learning How to Fly With a Broken Wing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Can Only Get So High<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Aerosmith</b> <font color="#ffffff">Music From Another Dimension</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Columbia</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/aerosmith-musicfromanotherdimension.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Douglas</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b>20 mins too long </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.aerosmith.com" target="new">Aerosmith</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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">This is the same kind of deal as the recent <b>Kiss</b> album. Iconic band; two very distinct histories (70s era, 80s and beyond); a fan base where it is going to be impossible to please everyone; and an impossibly high expectation from everyone.<br /> First the good points – thank God <b>Aerosmith</b> are not wasting time with blues tunes, covers albums, solo projects or anything other than what they should be doing together. It seems forever since a proper new studio album from the clan was on offer.<br /> Getting together with their old 70s partner – veteran producer <b>Jack Douglas</b> – someone who knows the band and how they work was a great idea, although those that immediately presumed this would be a 'back to the 70s' sounding release will be disappointed.<br /> Now the bad – too many tracks. There is no evidence of self-control here, both with the diverse nature of the material and the sheer length of the album. And <b>Joe Perry</b> on vocals? Sorry mate – you had your shot as a frontman on your solo album. That's not what anyone buys an Aerosmith record for.<br /> Another popular topic among fans is the number of ballads on the album. I fully understand people want the band to rock (as do I), but when the ballads are actually better quality than some of the rockers, you can hardly question why they are included.<br /> It all comes down to too many tracks and no quality control. Less can be more folks.<br /> <br /> The album gets off to a powerful start with the swaggering <font color="#ffff00">Luv XXX</font>, which draws on the band's most commercial sound of <font color="#00ffff">Pump</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Get A Grip</font>.<br /> The bluesy <font color="#ffff00">Oh Yeah</font> gives us some 70s flared pants to wear, while <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful</font> is a classic and quirky 'Smith rocker.<br /> I wouldn't have introduced a ballad so quickly, but the largely acoustic driven <font color="#ffff00">Tell Me</font> is an ok moody track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Out Go The Lights</font> is full tilt Aerosmith swagger, but not one of my favourite tracks on the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Legendary Child</font> is a cool song and I like it – but it's kinda ironic to see bands sounding great again using old tracks (this one is an outtake from the <font color="#00ffff">Get A Grip</font> sessions). It's funny how old tracks can remind you how off target the recent material has been.<br /> If the material that preceded this wasn't so average, this would still sound like a leftover. Today it sounds like a hit!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What Could Have Been Love</font> is a hit single in anyone's language. A great ballad and great Tyler vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Street Jesus</font> is everything I want to hear out of Aerosmith in 2012. Cool, driving, swagger, guitars, fast, quirky. Love it! Why not more of this guys?<br /> Sadly momentum is hauled immediately with an unnecessary ballad featuring <b>Carrie Underwood</b>. Not what I want from the band.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lover A Lot</font> heads straight back to the groove and the swagger that sounds natural for the band.<br /> Another ballad with <font color="#ffff00">We All Fall Down</font> – classy, but the track sequencing here does the band no favours.<br /> The last 4 tracks I won't even review. Well, <font color="#ffff00">Another Last Goodbye</font> closes the album with one of the best Tyler vocals in years and some beautiful orchestration. But the three tracks preceding it feature two horrible Perry vocals and another waste of time ballad.<br /> There are an additional 3 bonus tracks floating around, but one is a waste of time, the other is a horrid bluesy <b>Joe Perry</b> vocal and the third is another (average) ballad. Don't waste time paying extra to get those.</font><br /> <br />   <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's on ok album. But after so long and with so much talent in this band - and with the glimpses of brilliance inbetween some filler - ok isn't good enough. This should be a killer album and it's not because no one with the balls and influence that <b>John Kalodner</b> once had, could tell the band honestly what needed to be changed to make this album what it should have been.<br /> <br /> So…this is how I'd pull together this album into a pretty good listen (but still missing a couple of extra great rockers so one more ballad could be dropped): <font color="#ffff00">LUV XXX, Beautiful, Street Jesus, What Could Have Been Love, Legendary Child, Lover A Lot, Tell Me, Oh Yeah, We All Fall Down, Out Go The Lights, Another Last Goodbye</font>.</font><br />   <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> Permanent Vacation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pump<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get A Grip<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviewsusa.html">Nine Lives</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="aerosmith-justpushplay.p3">Just Push Play</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="aerosmith-honkinonbobo.p3">Honkin' On Bobo</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Songs From Another Dimension</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>Steven Tyler:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Perry:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joey Kramer:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tom Hamilton:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brad Whitford:</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>Die Hard Aerosmith</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> Luv XXX <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oh Yeah<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Go The Lights <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Legendary Child <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Could Have Been Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Street Jesus <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Stop Lovin' You (Duet With Carrie Underwood)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lover Alot<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We All Fall Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom Fighter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Closer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Something<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Last Goodbye <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>Issa</b> <font color="#ffffff">Can't Stop</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD575 </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/issa-cantstop.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Alesandro Del Vecchio</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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>Issa</b> delivers her third album in pretty quick time, this time taking a slightly different route – gaining herself a new backing band and producer (<b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> and his Italian friends) and also banging out a 12 track collection of obscure AOR classics.<br /> The upside of covering such songs as this – none of them can be ruined. Their classic status has long since been established and they are all great songs. No question.<br /> The downside – for the same reason, it's very unlikely that any of them can actually be improved upon.<br /> And while <b>Issa</b> certainly has a very good crack at these songs – one is constantly reminded of the originals and for the most part the originals can't and won't be beaten.<br /> But, these are quite obscure tracks generally, so perhaps there is a percentage of the audience that hasn't heard some of them. Those folks will definitely be at an advantage for enjoying this album, as comparisons won't get in the way of just appreciating what's on offer.<br /> And what is on offer is an album that (much like Issa's first two albums) is a professionally produced selection of very smooth tunes, all delivered in a pretty uptempo AOR-by-numbers fashion.<br /> Issa has a great voice though and it's nice to hear a female vocalist tackle 12 previously male sung tracks.<br /> But that in itself raises another question. Some songs just can't be covered by a female lead vocal when or ears have been previously trained to hear a male voice signing these songs.<br /> So why not dig up some obscure female fronted AOR songs to throw into the mix?<br /> <br /> At any rate – there are still some impressive efforts on here; the highlights of which are the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Can't Stop</font> (Aviator); <font color="#ffff00">Power Over Me</font> (Atlantic); <font color="#ffff00">Wherever I Run</font> (Regatta); <font color="#ffff00">If You Ever Fall</font> (Tone Norum, Mystic Healer) – nice guitar soloing; <font color="#ffff00">Dream On</font> (BLVD); <font color="#ffff00">State Of Love</font> (Mark Free) and <font color="#ffff00">These Eyes</font> (21 Guns) – mostly because it's just such a freeking amazingly phenomenal song.<br /> Not quite working quite as well - <font color="#ffff00">Just A Wish</font> (21 Guns); <font color="#ffff00">Do You Ever Think Of Me</font> (Message, Unruly Child); <font color="#ffff00">Stranded</font> (Tangier); <font color="#ffff00">Heat Of The Night</font> (Worrall); <font color="#ffff00">I Won't Surrender</font> (Tower City, Steelhouse Lane).</font><br />   <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"> Those who have Issa's first two releases will have to purchase this – it's more of the same and equally as impressive sound and performance wise.<br /> The selection of songs is pretty varied, but surprisingly cohesive too. Definitely one for fans of female fronted melodic rock – even better if the tunes are less known to you. </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> Sign Of Angels<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Stop</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>Isabell Oversveen:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mario Percudani:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Mori:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Anna Portaluppi:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio:</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 AOR</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robin Beck</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> Can't Stop <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Power Over Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wherever You Run <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just A Wish<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If You Ever Fall <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Ever Think Of Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stranded<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heat Of The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Won't Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> State Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> These Eyes <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>Soleil Moon</b> <font color="#ffffff">On The Way To Everything</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">FRCD562 </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/soleilmoon-onthewaytoeverything.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Larry King</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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 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="195"> <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">Not an album to crank if you are on a 10 hour interstate drive, but perhaps one for relaxing to after a long day at work. The <b>Larry King</b> fronted American pop/rock act delivers a fine album of adult contemporary Christian themed music that is mostly ballad and pop/rock styled, with a laid back sense throughout, but fronted by some strong lead vocals.<br /> For those that thought vocalist King sounded overly gruff on the recent <b>Michael Thomason Band</b> release (that's me for one), it's quite surprising to hear him sing so smoothly here and with such a delicate tone at times. Pity he didn't bring this style to the MTB album.<br /> As I said, this is very laid back and largely acoustic driven, but very finely produced. So it's a matter of taste and mood as to whether this will appeal.<br /> It's probably a little too adult contemporary for some, only the opening track and <font color="#ffff00">Burn</font> & <font color="#ffff00">Down</font> really get into third gear.<br /> The last three tracks are from the band's debut which was never released outside of the USA. Those are three really good tracks too.</font><br />   <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 style fits, it is an impressive soft rock album. If looking for more straight forward melodic rock or something heavier, the listener might struggle. But the songs themselves are all very personal and very likable and the vocals especially are a big factor in the quality of this album.</font><br />   <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> World's Apart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Way To 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>Larry King:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>John Blasucci:</b> Keyboards<br /> <br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Thompson, Gerey Johnson, Chris Siebold, Craig Bauer:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Khari Parker, Vinnie Colaiuta, Tom Hipskind:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Patterson, Leland Sklar, Dave Hiltebrand, Steven Rodby:</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>Larry King</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>MTB</b> - Future Past<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Soft 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> History Repeats It's Pages <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love the Way You Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On the Way To Everything <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blackbird<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Goodnight Irene<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burn <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Colorado<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Move On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here I Am<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ohio (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling on the World (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'd Die For You (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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lover Under Cover</b> <font color="#ffffff">Set The Nigth On Fire</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">ESM246 </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/loverundercover-setthenightonfire.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Just how I like my Scandi melodic rock – a little darker and moodier than the usual fare and delivered with a crunching guitar sound and a thumping rhythm section. Then there is the always fabulous raspy presence of <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> (Last Autumn's Dream/Salute).<br /> This new band is formed by <b>Mikael Carlsson</b> – Bass, Guitars, Keyboards and Vocals with <b>Martin Kronlund</b> (Gypsy Rose, Phenomena, Salute) – Guitars; <b>Perra Johnsson</b> (Coldspell) – Drums and special guest on keyboards: <b>Ged Ryland</b> (ex-Ten). A powerful line-up for a powerful album.<br /> Fans of LAD will find a lot to like about this – especially if you'd prefer that band to be a little heavier and fans of the Salute album will be even more impressed here I think.<br /> There's only 1 ballad (the closing track <font color="#ffff00">A Nice Day</font>) and 1 mid-tempo AOR track (<font color="#ffff00">Too Good To Be True</font>) and the rest is guitar fuelled Scandi melodic rock.<br /> The best of those tracks are the opening <font color="#ffff00">My Best Friend</font> and the brilliant <font color="#ffff00">Angels Will Cry</font>; the fast paced <font color="#ffff00">Flash In The Night</font>; the double time <font color="#ffff00">Who Needs Love</font> and its immediate neighbor <font color="#ffff00">Crazy For You</font> (one of the chorus highlights of the album) plus <font color="#ffff00">Crime In The Line</font>.</font><br />   <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"> Scandi AOR/melodic rock fans need to rush on this one. A very strong production and powerful delivery highlight some catchy songs, all delivered with the unmistakable melodic rasp of <b>Mikael Erlandsson's</b> wonderful voice.</font><br />   <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> Set The Night On Fire </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>Martin Kronlund:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Perra Johnsson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mikael Carlsson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ged Ryland:</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>Mikael Erlandsson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Last Autumn's Dream</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Coldspell</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Kronlund</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> My Best Friend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Angels Will Cry <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Good To Be True<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flash In The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Set The Night On Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Who Needs Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crazy For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crime In The Line <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through The Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Nice 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Anberlin</b> <font color="#ffffff">Vital</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Republic</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/anberlin-vital.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Aaron Sprinkle</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.anberlin.com" target="new">Anberlin</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">For me the last few <b>Anberlin</b> albums have all been excellent, but also fall just a little short of expectations generally. Probably because the near perfect <font color="#00ffff">Never Take a Friendship Personal</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Cities</font> albums are almost unbeatable, my expectations have been set impossibly high.<br /> I really dig this band. Vocalist <b>Stephen Christian</b> has one of those wonderfully melodic, yet powerful tones that I tend to gravitate towards and the messages the band delivers via their songs are both thought provoking as well as likeable.<br /> The fact is they haven't ever delivered a bad album and Vital is another wonderful slice of high energy modern rock angst.<br /> This time out the band has stripped back a little and turned the guitars way up – much as the opening salvo from <font color="#00ffff">Cities</font>. So the opening really had me excited.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Self-Starter</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Little Tyrants</font> kick ass before things turn my introspective with the quirky <font color="#ffff00">Other Side</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Someone Anyone</font> sees the band dive back into the full frontal assault and delivers one of the band's best tracks in a long time.<br /> Here's where I lose things a little. <font color="#ffff00">Intentions</font> is high energy still, but more driven by effects and programming. It's followed by another programmed track, this time a dreamy kind of ballad – it just sounds like two different bands at work here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Desires</font> is an ultra-heavy modern bombastic tune contrasted by another dreamy programmed mid-tempo track.<br /> I'm losing the thread of this album with the back and forth nature of styles being employed.<br /> The next two tracks are more familiar Anberlin and match the first few tracks before the closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">God, Drugs & Sex</font> turns things on their head again.<br /> There is clearly two different aspects of the band at play on <font color="#00ffff">Vital</font> and mixing the two hasn't necessarily worked.</font><br />   <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 just needs to work of consistency across a whole album. Each release had had a filler or two and the mix of styles can be off-putting. But they remain a favourite as when they get it right – they get it so right. A few new classics here, so in the end I'm pretty happy with the album overall.</font><br />   <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> Blueprints for the Black Market<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Take Friendship Personal<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cities<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dark Is the Way, Light Is a Place<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vital</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 Christian:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joseph Milligan, Christian McAlhaney:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nathan Young:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Deon Rexroat:</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>Anberlin</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> Self-Starter (featuring Julia Marie) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Little Tyrants <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Other Side <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someone Anyone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Intentions<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Innocent<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desires<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Type Three<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Orpheum <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Modern Age<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> God, Drugs & Sex (featuring Christie DuPree) <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>Neal Schon</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Calling</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD571 </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/nealschon-thecalling.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Neal Schon</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 53</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> Instrumental Guitar </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.nealschon.com" target="new">Neal Schon</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Journey</b> guitarist <b>Neal Schon</b> recorded two separate solo albums in the last year or two and kept them on ice until his band Journey's current studio album <font color="#00ffff">Eclipse</font> had run its course.<br /> Now the first of the two is formally released. <font color="#00ffff">The Calling</font> is an all-instrumental affair and features the rather tantalizing line-up of Schon (all guitars, al bass) teamed with old band mate and drumming legend <b>Steve Smith</b> once again and <b>Igor Len</b> on the occasional keyboard parts.<br /> Much like <font color="#00ffff">Eclipse</font>, this is a guitar lover's paradise, albeit in a different vein to the Journey album.<br /> This is Schon in free form expression, shredding all over this 53 minute opus, but also allowing breathing room with some spectacular slower moments like the short <font color="#ffff00">Irish Field</font> and the full length <font color="#ffff00">True Emotion</font> – which reminds me of my favourite Schon solo album <font color="#00ffff">Late Nite</font>.<br /> The subtle nuances of Smith's drumming forming around Schon's soloing is something to behold as expected. And Schon's bass parts make for a powerful rhythm section with the original Journey drummer.</font><br />   <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 for fans of guitar fantasy – impossibly good passages of melodic soloing and powerful riffing, without the constraints of song structures placed upon the more commercial and vocal driven Journey material. Schon once again proves himself to be the master of his domain and a truly underrated guitar legend.</font><br />   <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> Late Nite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beyond The Thunder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Electric World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Piranha Blues<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="nealschon-voice.html">Voice</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> i on u<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Calling</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>Neal Schon:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Smith:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Igor Len:</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>Neal Schon</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Instrumental Guitar Albums</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 Calling<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carnival Jazz<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Six String Waltz<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Irish Field<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back Smash<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fifty Six (56)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> True Emotion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tumbleweeds<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Primal Surge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blue Rainbow Sky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Transonic Funk<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Song Of The Wind II</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>AOR</b> <font color="#ffffff">LA Temptation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/aor-latemptation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 62</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> November 21</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">I could almost include this album as a twin review with the <b>Chasing Violets</b> release. As previously stated, it shares 7 songs with that album as well as 5 exclusive numbers. The difference here is that each of the songs features a different guest lead vocalist.<br /> <b>Frederic Slama</b> has produced perhaps the finest <b>AOR</b> release to date, with a little more emphasis on guitars and a melodic rock direction. The Westcoast bias of earlier release has been dropped, which might disappoint some fans of his earlier work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">No Margin For Error</font> -the song that just pops up everywhere - features <b>Phillip Bardowell</b> in a very fine vocal performance.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Above Suspicion</font> is <b>Goran Edman</b> at his very smoothest.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">From L.A To Paris</font> is a classy ballad featuring <b>Chris Ousey</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Heartbeat Away</font> is a heartfelt mid-tempo ballad with <b>James Christian</b> at the helm.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Silent Victory</font> doesn't do a lot for me, mainly due to the rough sounding vocal from <b>Paul Shortino</b>.<br /> I think I prefer the <b>Chasing Violets</b> version of <font color="#ffff00">No One's Gonna Hurt Me Anymore</font> but <font color="#ffff00">Second Chance At Love</font> is a nice smooth Goran fronted track again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Out On The Streets</font> features the horrible vocals of <b>Paul Sabu</b> in a track that is quite out of place on the album as a whole.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hold Back The Dawn</font> is a pretty long track that doesn't go anywhere for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Price To Pay</font> is Goran again, so that's always great and puts the album back on track. Not as well produced as some earlier tracks, but a good song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Outside Heaven</font> is a bit rough again (is that Sabu?) and the album ends with a rather uptempo poppy track <font color="#ffff00">When Darkness Falls</font>, which is pretty enjoyable.</font><br />   <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 quality falls away a little towards the end, but for the most part the production and instrumentation of this album is the best I've heard from Frederic and the songs and most of the guest appearances serve to enhance the overall quality of this fine release.</font><br />   <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 Rendez-vous<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Concession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next Stop: LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Reflection<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dreaming Of LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing But The Best<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Attraction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Journey To LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Ambition (Best Of)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Colours Of LA<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chasing Violets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LA Temptation</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 /> <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>Pure 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> No Margin For Error <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Above Suspicion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> From L.A To Paris <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Heartbeat Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silent Victory<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No One's Gonna Hurt Me Anymore<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Second Chance At Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out On The Streets<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold Back The Dawn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Price To Pay <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outside Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Darkness Falls<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>Chsing Violets</b> <font color="#ffffff">Outside Heaven</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="22%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/chasingviolets-outsideheaven.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 68</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/US</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.chasingviolets.fr" target="new">Chasing Violets</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">French AOR group <b>Chasing Violets</b> is essentially <b>Frederic Slama</b> (of AOR fame on songs, production, instrumentation) and about 300 other special guests such as <b>Tommy Denander</b> (of course), <b>Paul Sabu, Goran Edman, Philip Bardowell, Rick Riso, Jerry Hludzik</b> along with two fabulous female vocalists – sisters <b>Sarah and Melissa Fontaine</b>.<br /> Essentially this is another AOR (the band) album with female vocals. And if lined up against the brand new <b>AOR</b> album <font color="#00ffff">LA Confessions</font>, this works as a twin release.<br /> In fact, on closer inspection, both albums share seven of the same tracks.<br /> And whereas a few songs appear in duet form on this album, they are stand-alone lead vocal tracks for the guest stars on the <b>AOR</b> record.<br /> Cheating somewhat there? Perhaps – there will be some that don't want the same tracks twice, but in this form they are dominated by the Fontaine sisters, so the sound is a little different even if the instrumentation backing track isn't.<br /> Whatever the circumstance, this is another fine release from the stable of Mr. Slama.<br /> There will be few better smooth pure AOR style songs this year than the opener <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Love No More</font> and <font color="#ffff00">No Margin For Error</font> (there's that song again) sounds just as good with female vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Price To Pay</font> is a rockier affair with some really nice guitar soloing and duet vocals from <b>Phillip Bardowell</b>.<br /> <b>Goran Edman</b> is mixed into the set in <font color="#ffff00">Above Suspicion</font>, the duet of the track he sings alone on the AOR release, another stand out song.<br /> The album turns more guitar driven melodic rock as it goes, as pure AOR itself seems to be a harder and harder style to sell, but this release offers a little of both and no matter the style it is all very smooth indeed.</font><br />   <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"> Yet another one for fans of female fronted AOR/melodic rock to check out. Plenty around for those fans at the moment. Very smooth and more traditional AOR than melodic rock. But classy.</font><br />   <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> Outside Heaven</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>Sarah and Melissa Fontaine:</b> Vocals<br /> <br /> Various others...</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>AOR (Frederic Slama)</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 Can't Love No More <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Margin for Error <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Price to Pay <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When the Darkness Falls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voices in the Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Above Suspicion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outside Heaven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold Back the Dawn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No One's Gonna Hurt Me Anymore <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Hole in Paradise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're My Obsession<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cease Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just Wanna Be Your Heroin<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>Dante Fox</b> <font color="#ffffff">Lost Man's Ground</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/dantefox-lostmansground.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 V Stuart</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.dantefox.com" target="new">Date Fox</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">This is how I like my female melodic rock. UK AOR act <b>Dante's Fox</b> have released this album independently and I hope that pays off for them.<br /> It is of course an essential purchase for fans of female melodic rock; but at 7 tracks, it's a bit short to be hailed a great “album”.<br /> So we'll call it a great EP. But it's a good length EP. The new DF songs are a little longer this time around and a little more complex too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Who Stole The Innocence</font> is a typical edgy rocker from the band; <font color="#ffff00">Go Where Your Heart Is</font> features a softer sung vocal, but some nice hard edge guitar work and soloing; <font color="#ffff00">Secrets</font> is a song that grows on you each listen; <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Sleep</font> is a breezy anthem, which is well placed before the near-7 minute long <font color="#ffff00">Lost Man's Ground</font>, a darker and heavier number with a strong drum presence and an appealing lead vocal throughout.<br /> Then there is the excellent fellow epic, the 7 minute <font color="#ffff00">This World</font>, which is the most progressive I have heard the band sound – apart from the contrasting feel good chorus.<br /> An excellent all-acoustic <font color="#ffff00">Goodbye To Yesterday</font> and a radio edit of the title track complete the 8 tracks on offer here.<br /> <br /> Essential for fans of <b>Dante Fox</b> in the past and definitely needs to be checked out if female melodic rock appeals. A few extra songs would have made this an album proper, but it is still amongst their best work to date. And at 43 minutes, it's longer than some albums anyway!</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Heart</b> <font color="#ffffff">Fanatic</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Legacy</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/heart-fanatic.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> Ben Mink</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.heart-music.com" target="new">Heart</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</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">Ok, we all know <b>Heart</b> won't ever return to their commercial 80s style, but that shouldn't dismiss the need for the gals to write a damn chorus once and a while. Fans of the group (ie. The Wilson Duo) and their 70s output will of course find this new collection of rocked up, guitar driven tunes somewhat more to their liking and even delightful perhaps?<br /> But those like me that joined the group's fanbase in 1983-1985 will be aghast at the sheer lack of hooks, memorable melodies and sweet female driven anthems. <b>Heart</b> has simply forgotten what a chorus is. They instead seem content on one line choruses with a slight instrumental break as buffer before the next verse starts.<br /> Yes, it's very nice to hear <b>Nancy Wilson</b> crank that guitar a little bit – this is a very raw and direct sounding record, with guitars well up in the mix.<br /> But the pace….well the great classic 70s rock Led Zep Plod style continues.<br /> I think the title track <font color="#ffff00">Fanatic</font> is rather special, but when it's followed by several similarly paced tracks, it loses its shine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Walkin' Good</font> is a sweet melody and it's nice to hear the sweet and luscious voice of <b>Nancy Wilson</b> up front again. But stuff like the dragging <font color="#ffff00">Skin And Bones</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Pennsylvania</font>, not to mention <font color="#ffff00">Rock Deep</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Corduroy Road</font> just bore the tears out of me.<br /> I know there's already some claiming a 'best of 2012' finish for this album in personal lists, but it won't make mine.<br /> After 3 albums in a row of drab, slow, 70s inspired Zep folk/rock, me and Heart are pretty much done.<br /> <br /> And I absolutely adore the <font color="#00ffff">Heart, Bad Animals, Brigade</font> trilogy. Some of the finest female fronted melodic rock ever right there. Even before that the band delivered some 70s rock classics I admire. But this album and the band's recent output has nothing to do with anything musically memorable or remotely enjoyable.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Matchbox Twenty</b> <font color="#ffffff">North</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Atlantic</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/matchboxtwenty-north.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> Matt Serletic</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 42</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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/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.matchboxtwenty.com" target="new">MB20</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">In a word – disappointing. So much more was expected after a gap of too many years and the last release featuring just 7 new tracks (albeit, very good ones). The lead single <font color="#ffff00">She's So Mean</font> hinted at the classic rock MB20 greatness fans know, but the album is just so disappointing to these ears.<br /> The brilliant, building <font color="#ffff00">Parade</font> is a quality track in anyone's terms. But when it's lined up to open the new album, it's an immediate indicator that the band circa 2012 has not come to rock. Following the brilliant lead single is an equally mesmerizing ballad <font color="#ffff00">Overjoyed</font>, followed by the annoyingly dance friendly/Maroon 5 sounding <font color="#ffff00">Put Your Hands Up</font> – as catchy as it comes really, but certainly a step away from the band's core sound.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Our Song</font> is a step back towards the classic pop/rock feel, but it falls away after that.<br /> The band has just gone too far into the pop arena for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">English Town</font> is a solid track with a little guitar in there, but from there it's all slowish pop songs or ballads.<br /> <br /> The deluxe/international version adds a couple of more decent tracks, but then it gets into the whole 'too many tracks/too many fillers' syndrome. The best 12 tracks were certainly not selected for the core version. Disappointing.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Angels</b> <font color="#ffffff">Take It To The Streets</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Liberation 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/theangels-takeittothestreets.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> John & Rick Brewster</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> AU</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.theangels.com.au" target="new">The Angels</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>35%</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">I love <b>The Angels</b> (or <b>Angel City</b> as they are sometimes marketed as internationally). They are the leading purveyors of the Aussie pub rock sound alongside <b>AC/DC</b>. But The Angels had an edge that even AC/DC didn't have at times. Frontman <b>Doc Neeson</b> scared the shit out of you on stage, he was that menacing.<br /> The band is unquestioned legends here in Oz. But as is sometimes the case, the vocalist (Neeson) stopped getting along with everyone else and has been for some time touring with his own version of the band, except he as a vocalist and performer has seen better days sadly.<br /> So it was exciting to hear of the band's most defining line up of <b>Rick & John Brewster</b> and <b>Chris Bailey</b> doing their own thing (they own the <b>The Angels</b> moniker) and even more inspired was bringing on board <b>Screaming Jets</b> frontman <b>Dave Gleeson</b>. The hard rocking Gleeson is a natural fit for these guys and the live shows have been received very well.<br /> So what went wrong in the studio?<br /> I guess these old guys forgot to rock. This is a truly uninspired album that I doubt will have any lasting effect on long time fans.<br /> When you open the album with a mid-tempo acoustic driven song, it doesn't install confidence.<br /> Wounded Healer has a more hard edge Angels sound to it and Gleeson does sound great, but he still sings well within himself and the whole tone of this song and the album as a whole is one of restraint.<br /> Since when were <b>The Angels</b> a polite band? Lead single <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For The Sun</font> has a little crunch, but again, more restraint. It's the best song here too.<br /> After that comes some of the most boring rock music ever to come out of Australia.<br /> Only <font color="#ffff00">No Sleep In Hell</font> mid-way through the album shows any sing of life – apart from the band covering themselves (<font color="#ffff00">When The Time Comes</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Small Price</font>) – why do this?<br /> And the band covering <b>Elvis Costello</b> is like being stabbed in the ears with a pair of Costello's dorky little spectacles. It's a true insult.<br /> <br /> Boring. That's a word I never thought I would use with The angels. But it is what it is. Slow and largely boring. Thankfully there is a 2 disc edition with 14 live tracks from 2012, which covers the band's more memorable material – with Gleeson on vocals. I much prefer that over this highly uninspired collection of new (and covered) tunes.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>YoungBlood</b> <font color="#ffffff">No Retreat</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Eonian</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/youngblood-noretreat.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> Jeffrey A. Diehl</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.eonianrecords.com" target="new">Eonian 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">Pressing play with the <b>Youngblood</b> album <font color="#00ffff">No Retreat</font> is like stepping through a portal onto the pavement of the Sunset Strip circa 1988. This material was recorded between 1989 and 1991, taking just that little bit too long to complete before Seattle took a giant turd on the head of good rock n roll. The bulk of the songs were recorded for <b>Sony/Epic</b> in 1989, ready for a major label debut.<br /> I'm not sure which is a more puzzling question – why wasn't this released back in the day, or why has it taken so long for it to be unearthed now? This album is one of the best examples of bygone days to emerge in recent years.<br /> Straight out of the American hard rock hand book (1988 edition), comes 16 tracks of high energy rock n roll, delivered with a high pitch vocal that fans of <b>Slaughter, Steelheart, Sweet FA, Warrant</b> and the like will appreciate.<br /> Production is amazing – and the mix fully pro and ready to go.<br /> As an “album”, 16 tracks is probably too much, but this release is more of a compilation of the band's recorded material and it shows that they really did get the shit end of the luck stick.<br /> <br /> There's no reason to think that this album wouldn't have sold a cool half million or more back in the day. It just goes to show that talent doesn't always get you across the line in this business. Luck and good timing also goes a long way.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Steve Harris</b> <font color="#ffffff">British Lion</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">UMe</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/steveharris-britishlion.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> Steve Harris</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> Hard Rock/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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>40%</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">This album sounds as if it was recorded inside the chamber of a vacuum cleaner on “full suck” mode. Any and all trace of high end phonics have been sucked out and what is left is a muddy, distorted, horrid sounding mash of faint vocals ridden over by <b>Harris'</b> unmistakable chunka chunka chunka bass riffing.<br /> I could imagine a few songs here having some likability if they could only be heard properly. And what's with the vocals? They are so wimpy of an album of this kind.<br /> So the songs are average, the vocals are pretty terrible and the production is nothing short of an embarrassment for someone of Harris' standing.<br /> There's another thing I cannot fathom – why this album has been getting some great reviews! Maybe it's me then, but I can't find anything that makes me want to keep playing it.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Hart</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Conqueror</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/hart-theconqueror.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> Hart</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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>Hart</b> was formed in Oslo in early 2012 by Norwegian singer <b>Rock Hart</b> and <b>Beautiful Beast's Julian Angel</b> on lead guitar.<br /> These guys are clearly inspired by the classic 80s LA Sunset Strip sound, but aren't quite sure if they are an <b>Axl Rose/Guns N Roses</b> kind of band or a full-sleaze outfit with vocals to match <b>Tom Kiefer</b>.<br /> Well, that's on a good day if they are lucky. The vocals for the most part here are screechy, painful and totally lack the power of the accompanying riffs.<br /> The riff'n'blues style mixed with 80s glam is ok, but the songs just don't hold up over the length of a full album. There are a few good sounding tracks here, the opening two are the best, but then it's mostly downhill from there.<br /> Average production, average songs, and terrible vocals.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>The Darkness</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hot Cakes</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Wind-Up</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/thedarkness-hotcakes.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> The Darkness</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 56</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.theactualdarkness.com/" target="new">The Darkness</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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">You either love them or hate them. I'm prepared to like them – I don't mind the tongue in cheek self-satire of their sound and the over the top approach, the band's debut <font color="#00ffff">Permission To Land</font> was really something quite extraordinary.<br /> But at some point the drama surrounding the band overtook the music and the guys seem to take themselves too seriously. So after a while they break up, go solo, do nothing, get back together again and try and recover the magic.<br /> They do at times, but there's also some filler here. 15 tracks is just too many songs for every one of them to be winners. The sound of this album is a lot rawer than the polished debut and more a 'live in the studio' kind of feel.<br /> There is no doubt they rock – the riffs are there and the pace is pretty in your face.<br /> Overall, an ok album, but nothing that will ever convince the doubters and nothing close to the quality of the debut.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Savage</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sons Of Malice</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/savage-sonsofmalice.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> Savage</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> UK</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.reverbnation.com/savagemusic" target="new">Savage</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="195"> <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">I didn't know what to expect from a brand new <b>Savage</b> album, but within thirty seconds or so, I liked what I heard. This is one of those old-fashioned albums – old as in old-school and not as in out dated.<br /> This kind of hard rock/NWOBHM doesn't date – it's just classic metal.<br /> The only thing you need to adjudicate is whether the production is any good – yes, indeed, this is a hard hitting powerful sounding record.<br /> Secondly – are the songs any good – yes again. There's nothing new or mind blowingly original on offer here, but it does what it says on the box – it rocks.<br /> This riff driven record delivers plenty of highlights and moves along at a pretty decent pace. The only this is that following the kick ass opening track, there follows two plodding tracks that don't impress.<br /> So I would have reworked the sequencing a little once again, but at the end of the day, this album is filled with exactly what you'd hope from an 80s British metal band. Just with the added bonus that it sounds pretty fresh and energetic.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Jimi Jamison</b> <font color="#ffffff">Never Too Late</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">FRCD574 </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/jimijamison-nevertoolate.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Erik Martensson</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> 2012</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.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="#b11b1c" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>100%</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">Well, I guess this result isn't the shock of the year after my unadulterated praise for the album over the last few months.<br /> It's finally due to hit retail shelves this week so and might I recommend you grab your copies now before stock runs low, because this is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the last few years and a truly classic record to my ears.<br /> <b>Jimi Jamison's</b> last solo album saw him teamed with former <b>Survivor</b> band mate <b>Jim Peterik</b> to write and record an album for him. The momentous <font color="#00ffff">Crossroads Moment</font> was an amazing record that was packed with quality songs. It perhaps had a couple of songs too many, but <b>Jim Peterik's</b> writing blitz for the album bought out so many great songs, the decision on what to leave in or out was almost impossible.<br /> That album featured a definite Survivor-esque tone, but more so it favored <b>Jim Peterik's</b> post-Survivor writing style – which is just as fabulous in my mind, he can do no wrong.<br /> <br /> Despite being entirely written by someone else, the <font color="#00ffff">Never Too Late</font> album sounds to me like a more natural <b>Jimi Jamison</b> solo album.<br /> Yes, it has some really strong <b>Survivor</b> moments, but it also really suits his voice to a tee and gives us another reminder of who Jimi the solo artist is.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Never Too Late</font> features the writing, musical and production talents of the unbelievably inspired <b>Erik Martensson</b>, himself fresh off the success of the new <b>Eclipse</b> album and still riding a wave of popularity thanks to the <b>W.E.T.</b> and <b>Toby Hitchcock</b> releases.<br /> There is something about Erik's ability to really nail the direction of the music for the singer in question. The Hitchcock album was tougher than expected, but the heavier, more urgent tone really brought out the best in Toby.<br /> And with this album, Erik pulls back a little to a space where Jimi gets to sound as powerful as he has ever sounded, but as melodic as ever also.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Everybody's Got A Broken Heart</font> is a fresh and energetic uptempo opener, with an updated 80s feel and some Survivor riffing. Great chorus and great vocals from Jimi.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Great Unknown</font> has a good dose of keyboards in the mix, but what immediately stands out for me is Jimi's awesome vocal. Nice to hear that emotional rasp in there, which adds grit to the song. And the chorus? Out of this world folks!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Never Too Late</font> sounds like it might be a ballad to start with, a simple piano line plays behind Jimi's vocal (which again sounds awesome), but the song soon picks up exactly how those Survivor anthems used to. And once again, in typical Martensson fashion, the chorus explodes as the song goes into overdrive.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Can't Turn Back</font> has a really moody synth intro and an equally restrained vocal. But it builds slowly and soars as a hard edged lead guitar takes over. Another big 80s sounding song with a modern feel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Street Survivor</font> is one of the albums heavier tracks and really packs a punch after a couple of melodic rock anthems. It has the feel of an opening track, but I like it's positioning here. It's urgent, it rocks and Jimi delivers a huge vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Air I Breathe</font> is a hit single in waiting. A stirring sentimental ballad, the song builds perfectly as it goes and the chorus is simply massive. Yet another compliment here for Jimi's vocals (which he co-produced by the way – great effort), which soar to heights not heard in years.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Not Tonight</font> is one of those instantly perfect songs. The type of song you love from the first line and just gets better. And the chorus is another monster. This reminds me of something that might have worked for <b>Bryan Adams</b> (Waking Up The Neighbours era). A typically 80s song - wide open and breezy and impossible not to sing along with.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Calling The Game</font> sees yet another anthem delivered, albeit a more direct and rocking one, with an urgent feel and more piano melodies entwined around the guitar work.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bullet In The Gun</font> is a tougher, harder rocking tune that might have fit on the Toby Hitchcock album – a typical Erik Martensson number this – which of course makes it brilliant. The song actually has a guitar/piano tradeoff that would have fit on the Crossroads Moment album. And more big vocals and a big chorus of course! <font color="#ffff00">Heaven Call Your Name</font> is my favourite ballad of Jimi's in a long time. The vocal is haunting, emotional and beyond powerful. The song itself is a melancholy tribute to loved ones passed and yet another career highlight for Jimi. The closeout is epic.<br /> The album closes with the tough uptempo rocker <font color="#ffff00">Walk On (Wildest Dreams)</font>. The verse has a driving beat and a pulsating vocal, which gives way to a very melodic chorus where keyboards play a bigger role. A really strong statement to end a perfect album.</font><br />   <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 classic for the MR hall of fame, another notch in the belt for both <b>Jimi Jamison</b> and writer/producer <b>Erik Martensson</b> and an album that really should have wide appeal amongst most readers of this site. An essential purchase dare I say? And to close – the album is a perfect length – long enough to be totally satisfying, but still leaves you wanting more. </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> When Love Comes Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jimijamison-empires.p3">Empires</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jimijamison-crossroadsmoment.p3">Crossroads Moment</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Too Late</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>Erik Mårtensson:</b> Lead & Rhythm Guitar. Bass, Keyboards & Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Ulfstedt:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Henriksson:</b> Lead Guitar on "Street Survivor" & "Heaven Call Your Name"<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jonas Öijvall:</b> HammondB3, Piano & Analog Synthesizers</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>Jimi Jamison</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Martensson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Survivor</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Great 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> Everybody's Got A Broken Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Great Unknown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Too Late<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can't Turn Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Street Survivor<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Air I Breathe<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not Tonight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling The Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullet In The Gun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heaven Call Your Name<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk On (Wildest Dreams)<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">All 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>Kiss</b> <font color="#ffffff">Monster</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/kiss-monster.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 38</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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</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="195"> <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">This is a tough one to review. In fact, I generally don't like reviewing albums like this – iconic artists with long careers, delivering albums you already know fans are arguing over and no one absolute verdict has been reached.<br /> I've heard everything from <i>“their best album since Creatures Of The Night”</i> to <i>“absolute shit”</i> to <i>“even better than Sonic Boom”</i>, and <i>“not as good as Sonic Boom”</i>.<br /> How does one write a review for an album when you know you are going to get crap from fans no matter what you write?<br /> Be honest I guess….and that's what I do and that's been my motto since Day 1.<br /> In this case, I see both sides of the argument. There are some great tunes here, but I also think there is a lack of self-control and discipline.<br /> <br /> So what I hear on <font color="#00ffff">Monster</font> is a band desperately trying to be as loud and as in your face as possible late in their career. And they succeed there, but at what cost?<br /> The album is 12 tracks of non-stop hard driving sex-n-rock-roll. The band beat you over the head with track after track of high octane testosterone. But there is no balance either. It's all in your face. There is no room to breathe within the record – it's just relentless! Personally I like a little light and shade within an album.<br /> I'm not a fan of multi-singer albums with only a few exceptions. But we're all used to that with Kiss, so it's no great problem to find 4 vocalists on <font color="#0000ff">Monster</font>, with drummer <b>Eric Singer</b> handling one of the album's best tracks in <font color="#ffff00">All For The Love Of Rock N Roll</font>.<br /> And guitarist <b>Tommy Thayer</b> handles lead on the groovy 70s rocker <font color="#ffff00">Outta This World</font>. Is it a coincidence he sounds like Ace?<br /> The rest is the usual back of forth between Paul (the melodic one) and Gene (the gruff one). But when the gruff one sounds better than the melodic one, there might just be a problem. <b>Paul Stanley's</b> voice is horrible live and even in the studio here it's along long way from the glory days. Shame as I've always found his voice very appealing and his last solo album was great.<br /> Song wise there's some cracking tunes on here – all delivered in the same 70s heavy style that is the band's origins and where they headed back to on <font color="#00ffff">Sonic Boom</font>.<br /> There's also a touch of their angst album <font color="#00ffff">Revenge</font> in here and some early 80s Kiss too. But that's what you get when you've been around for 75 years. A mix of everything.<br /> Highlights for me – from Stanley - the stomping <font color="#ffff00">Last Chance</font>; the anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Hell Or Hallelujah</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Freak</font>.<br /> From Simmons – <font color="#ffff00">Wall Of Sound, Devil Is Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Eat Your Heart Out</font> (killer guitar work from Tommy here).<br /> Only song I really hate is <font color="#ffff00">Shout Mercy</font> – can't stand that chorus and the backing vocal hook.</font><br />   <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 really flash guitar work on here from Thayer and a few new <b>Kiss</b> classics. Nothing here is of the quality likely to offend longtime fans, but nothing that good that fringe dwellers are going to get excited over either. Just another Kiss album – solid for sure – but brought undone a little by the sheer sonic wall of sound that offers no light and shade. I prefer <font color="#00ffff">Sonic Boom</font>. </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> Hotter Than Hell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> KISS<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dressed To Kill<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Destroyer<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock And Roll Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Gun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dynasty<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unmasked<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Music From the Elder<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Creatures Of The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lick it Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Animalize<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Asylum<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crazy Nights<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot In The Shade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Revenge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carnival Of Souls<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Psycho Circus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sonic Boom<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monster</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 Stanley:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Thayer:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Singer:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gene Simmons:</b> 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>Kiss</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> Hell or Hallelujah <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wall of Sound<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freak <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back to the Stone Age<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shout Mercy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Way Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Eat Your Heart Out<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Devil Is Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outta This World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All for the Love of Rock & Roll <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Me Down Below<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Chance<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>Tango Down</b> <font color="#ffffff">Identity Crisis</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/tangodown-identitycrisis.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 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> USA</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Tango Down's</b> new album - their third - might just be the surprise package of 2012. The band's last album <font color="#0000ff">Damage Control</font> was solid and enjoyable, but now some 3 years since its release, I'm struggling to remember any song from it.<br /> But that won't be the case for <font color="#0000ff">Identity Crisis</font>. There are two or three songs here especially that I probably won't ever forget, such is the strength of the chorus and song overall.<br /> But that's not to say there aren't other highlights within this album. It is in fact, very consistent throughout and at 10 tracks and just 38 minutes, there is no room for fillers and none are presented. Only guitarist <b>Scott Miller</b> and drummer <b>Keith Michaels</b> have appeared on all 3 albums.<br /> <b>David Reece</b>, the voice of Accept, Bangalore Choir, Reece/Kronlund and now Power World is the new man up front and I have to say, after being somewhat skeptical of his potential fit with this band, it seems it was an inspired choice.<br /> Hopefully this fresh line-up and album will set the guys up to move forward and perhaps perform live and re-group for a sequel in time.<br /> Not only does Reece bring a certain toughness to the band that they didn't have before, but the band also gives Reece some more melodic tunes to sing, which I think is awesome. Nothing better than some melodic rock with attitude.<br /> Writers on the album are many – <b>Scott Miller</b> of course is involved with most tracks, but friend of the label <b>Jace Pawlak</b> again delivers some fine writing (he really needs a big project of his own soon) and other writers include <b>Paul Logue, Erik</b> from Bombay Black (the band's <b>Ty Sims</b> produces), <b>Christian Tolle</b> and Reece himself.<br /> Production is amongst the best quality I have heard from any <b>Kivel Records</b> release – there's a nice hard hitting approach on this album that I have often asked for in other Kivel Records reviews. Nailed it this time guys!<br /> <br /> The album kicks off with two ass-kickers in the fast moving, beat heavy <font color="#ffff00">Crying to Me</font> and the more melodic keyboard accompanied <font color="#ffff00">Alone</font> (very 80s track there).<br /> I'm not quite as enamored with <font color="#ffff00">Dream Child</font>, not sure why, but I can say that the old fashioned backing vocals work well and are very well mixed into the album as a whole.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blame</font> is one of those classic tracks I referred to up front. Immediately likable and featuring a big melodic chorus. It features one of my favorite Reece vocals since the debut <b>Bangalore Choir</b> album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Corners of My Mind</font> is another very melodic and very classy song. It's slower to the point of almost being a ballad, but still rocks a little. Very strong melodies and a nice keyboard fill under the guitars.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Enlighten Me</font> is a little darker and features another strong chorus and a moodier vibe. Didn't click with me first up, but gets better and better.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Back to Life</font> is yet another instantly memorable 80s melodic rock anthem made to feel more contemporary by the strong production. It features a wonderfully moody Reece vocal and great chorus with a perfect blend of guitars and keyboards.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hearts Catch Fire</font> is an old school hard rocker for sure. From the guitar riffs to the Dokken-esque backing vocals and the pumping bass line. I like the chorus a lot, but I'm not a big fan of plodding rockers and this is one of those.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Calling Out</font> picks up the pace and adds a little extra melody from the previous track. Another strong riff and another strong track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Magic Pudding</font> is another 5 minute plodder so to speak. Not a favorite of mine. And that's probably my only issue with the whole album. There's 2 or 3 tracks of this pace already and that makes this one a little superfluous. I would have liked to seen the album close with a more rousting barnstormer like the opening track. Small point. </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 all-round classy release. I hope the band retains this line up for future releases and the same writers join in for more fun.<br /> It's a great sounding release with one of the best production/mixes of any <b>Kivel</b> release and <b>David Reece</b> is the perfect fit for the music on offer.<br /> Some hard rockers and some melodic anthems make for a pretty good balance.</font><br />   <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> Take 1<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damage Control<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Identity Crisis</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>David Reece:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Scott Millar:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Keith Michaels:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Konys::</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>Bangalore Choir</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tango Down</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>American 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> Cryin' To Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Child<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blame <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Corner Of My Mind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Enlighten Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back To Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hearts Catch Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calling Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magic Pudding<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>Rick Springfield</b> <font color="#ffffff">Songs For The End Of The World</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">UMe North America / Frontiers Records Europe</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/rickspringfield-s4eow-red.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Rick Springfield & Matt Bissonette</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 40 + Bonus Tracks</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> Oct. 9 USA / Nov. 2 Europe</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.rickspringfield.com" target="new">Rick Springfield</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="#b11b1c" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>100%</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">Perfect. <font color="#00ffff">Songs From The End Of The World</font> is a masterpiece. Not just for <b>Rick Springfield</b> fans, but for anyone that can identify with wonderfully crafted modern melodic rock; emotional and energetic power pop; and brilliantly produced music that features layers upon layers of intricately mixed instruments and vocals.<br /> I just can't fault this album. Some will suggest that's no real surprise, but despite my dedicated RS fanboy status, in 16 years of covering all Rick's releases, I am yet to award a perfect score. That's because I hold Rick at an impossibly high standard based on so many classic albums over the years and I can normally find one or two ways I wish things were a little different.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> came close at 99, <font color="#00ffff">Shock Denial Anger Acceptance</font> a 93, <font color="#00ffff">Sahara Snow</font> scored an 85 and <font color="#00ffff">The Day After Yesterday</font> only managed a 73. As you can see, that's a pretty unbiased set of numbers. But no holding back this time. This album delivers in so many ways and finally lives up to my always high expectations in every department.<br /> I never reviewed <font color="#00ffff">Venus In Overdrive</font> formally, as I was the one that signed Rick for the European release with the label I was working A&R for at the time. But it was an absolutely superb album of course and some of the songs within were all-time classics as far as Rick is concerned. The writing partnership with <b>Matt Bissonette</b> really brought the best out in both writers. The album's first half was absolutely perfect and it was only a couple of 'left-turns' on the second half that I think hindered the album's flow and direction. I would have given it a 95.<br /> <br /> No such concerns with <font color="#00ffff">Songs From The End Of The World</font>. This is a track for track masterpiece that despite being somewhat diverse still stays on the same musical track throughout.<br /> And as usual, all the trademark <b>Rick Springfield</b> quirks are in play – short choruses followed by longer ones further into the song; out of nowhere bridge diversions; hands in the air sing-along parts and incredibly intelligent and complex song structures on top of deeply thought out lyrics that as always; delve deep into Rick's psyche.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> was an album of personal discovery and reawakening. <font color="#00ffff">SDAA</font> was largely an album of angry, bitter songs sung with aggression and resentment. <font color="#00ffff">Venus In Overdrive</font> was an album of reflection, which has segued into this new album – which as usual lays bare some of Rick's personal demons – but this time it is presented in an almost upbeat fashion – as if Rick has come to terms with his life and what it entails and accepts that it is what it is. And these songs are the result.<br /> <br /> With an immediately hard hitting riff, <font color="#ffff00">Wide Awake</font> is our first taste of Rick as a 63 year old artist existing in 2012. He makes a mockery of his age with a song (and a whole album) of spirited songs oozing energy that some 20 year old kids would have a hard time keeping up with. This song is a bombastic modern hard rocker with layers and layers of music and vocals – and that's just the verse. The chorus explodes and delivers at least another 2 or 3 layers of guitar parts plus some keyboards. It's simply immense and his most upbeat intro track since <font color="#ffff80">Perfect</font> (2004), <font color="#ffff80">Calling All Girls</font> (1982) and <font color="#ffff80">Love Is Alright Tonite</font> (1981).<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Our Ship's Sinking</font> defies words. But I'll try… The intro guitar riff might suggest that it's 1981 again, but the massive wall of sound says 2012 is here and now. What follows is a brilliant verse vocal that literally explodes into a massive chorus that just gets bigger and better every listen. Then throw in the additional bridge and the whoa, whoa sing-along harmonies and more choruses and it's simply melodic rock bliss. Words cannot explain how much I love this track.<br /> <i>“If I'm the one that caused your shipwrecked life, then hold my hand right to the fire….”</i> Wow. Rick's best rock anthem ever?<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Hate Myself</font> is this album's trademark commercial, big chorus sing-along single. <font color="#00ffff">Venus In Overdrive</font> had <font color="#ffff80">What's Victoria's Secret</font> and <font color="#00ffff">SDAA</font> had <font color="#ffff80">Will I?</font> Despite the title, <font color="#ffff00">I Hate Myself</font> is fun fun fun and the chorus is again a perfect wall of sound with <b>Matt Bissonette's</b> bass playing in the fore.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You And Me</font> is the album's big ballad, but even then it rolls along at a pretty decent rate. This is a musically lush modern rock ballad, contrasted by a raw lead vocal until the chorus comes, when things get multi-layered once again and Rick takes on some falsetto harmonies. It would fit alongside <font color="#ffff80">One Passenger</font> from <font color="#00ffff">VIO</font> nicely.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gabriel</font> (as in the arc angel) is yet another amazing track, sentimental and emotional and features a vocal that fans of 70s Rick might find familiar. It's a real throw back to <font color="#00ffff">Wait For Night</font> on the verse and the heavy use of acoustic guitars. It is a ballad in sentiment, but quite uptempo overall. The chorus and rest of the song is again layered with acoustic and electric guitars and features a short guitar solo in there too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Sign of Life</font> reminds me of <font color="#ffff80">I'll Miss That Someday</font> mixed with <font color="#ffff80">Time Stands Still</font>, both from <font color="#00ffff">VIO</font>. A thoroughly catchy and melodic modern rocker that is heavier, faster than both previous songs and features an even bigger pop anthem chorus that is as instant as it is complex.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My Last Heartbeat</font> is an effects filled super complex heavy modern rocker with a darker vibe and intent through the verse which is then totally swept away by an ultra-commercial multi-layered anthemic chorus before turning modern again. Complex and wonderful at the same time!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Joshua</font> (this time named after Rick's son) is the perfect contrast to <font color="#ffff80">My Last Heartbeat</font> – a fast paced happy go lucky pop/rockers with a message with a sentimental heart. Typical Rick chorus/bridge/anthem chorus formula.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love Screws Me Up</font> is a modernized and rocked up version of the <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> offcut that was included in the <font color="#00ffff">SDAA</font> Limited Edition (in demo form). The reworking done here is true to the original, but it's totally made over to fit the style of the rest of the tracks and the multi-layered instrumentation. It fits into the album perfectly and is yet another uptempo sing-along anthem.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Found You</font> is another truly original and amazing track for Rick. It has the darkness of <font color="#ffff80">3 Warning Shots</font> from <font color="#00ffff">VIO</font>, but an even moodier balladesque delivery. Just when you think it's all dark and questioning lyrically, the chorus blooms with a message of love and dedication in a very commercial hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Depravity</font> is another really interesting track - very modern and quite heavy and follows on from the very modern stylings of <font color="#ffff80">I Found You</font>, but more uptempo. Super intense, but with another (dark) catchy chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">One Way Street</font> is another wow moment for me. This is yet another career highlight as far as I'm concerned for Rick. With the flowing urgency of <b>Bob Seger's</b> <font color="#ffff80">Hollywood Nights</font> and the brooding lyrical intensity of <font color="#ffff80">World Start Turning</font> from <font color="#00ffff">Rock Of Life</font>, this could almost be Rick's sequel to that iconic track. The chorus is a complete 180 from the verse, with its modern pop beat and 60s guitar riff underneath, which is followed by yet another hey-hey sing-along passage. Glorious guitar playing, huge chorus and follow-up bridge, plus some inspired lyrics. And the closing minute twenty is just all anthem.<br /> <br /> <b>Bonus Tracks:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let Me In</font> is a really beautiful sentimental ballad with acoustic guitars and keyboards the driving forces behind the song. It has the same emotional vibe as <font color="#ffff80">I Found You</font> and <font color="#ffff80">You And Me</font> and is well worth finding. Astute fans will recognize the keyboard sound from within the <font color="#00ffff">Karma</font> record.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">My DUI</font> is a very odd track that takes a few listens to appreciate. It has a groovy hard beat and some intense pissed off lyrics. It has a certain <font color="#ffff80">Living In Oz</font> vibe to it believe it or not (the title track to the 1983 album), but thoroughly modernized and filled with effects. The very simple chorus goes from odd to cool after a few listens! And the police siren is back from <font color="#ffff80">3 Warning Shots</font>!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Bug</font> is almost not a song, clocking in at just 2 minutes precisely. But it's amazing how much music can be fit into those 2 minutes. This is a super heavy and tuned down uptempo modern rocker, and it still manages a catchy chorus, even if it's only several seconds long!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Hate Myself (Acoustic)</font> is just what it says on the tin, a stripped back version with a raw vocal and more emphasis on the submitted fan sung chorus hook. I like. Nice contrast to the original version.</font><br />   <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 me at least and I hope the majority of Rick fans will agree. The production quality on this record really puts into perspective some other records that I have praised for sounding great (which they still do) – it's just that this album is so sonically amazing, it takes me back to the glory days when every record had a big kick ass budget and always sounded worth a million bucks. Even then this album would give them a run for their money.<br /> Top that with some wonderful songs and the usual personal lyrical approach you've come to expect from Rick and equally impressive contributions from all musicians involved (drummer <b>Rodger Carter</b> and Bassist <b>Matt Bissonette</b> in particular) and you get a well-rounded, engaging, energetic album that as a lifelong fan of Rick's…I just cannot fault. </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> Beginnings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Comic Book Heroes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Springfield<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mission Magic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wait For Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful Feelings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Working Class Dog<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sucess Hasn't Spoilt Me Yet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living In Oz<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard To Hold<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tao<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock Of Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="saharasnow.html">Sahara Snow</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rickspringfield-karma.p3">Karma</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rickspringfield-alive.p3">Alive - The Greatest Hits</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rickspringfield-sdaa.p3">Shock Denial Anger Acceptance</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="rickspringfield-thedayafteryesterday.p3">The Day After Yesterday</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Venus In Overdrive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Songs For The End Of The 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>Rick Springfield:</b> Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards, Percussion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rodger Carter:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Bissonette:</b> Bass & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>George Bernhardt, George Nastos, Dan Strain, Tim Pierce:</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>RS</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Great modern melodic rock & 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> Wide Awake<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Our Ship's Sinking<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Hate Myself<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You And Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gabriel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Sign of Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Last Heartbeat<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Joshua<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Screws Me Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Found You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Depravity<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Way Street<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">All 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>Ten</b> <font color="#ffffff">Heresy & Creed</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/ten-heresyandcreed.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 & 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> 66</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> October 19</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / Japan</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">The new <b>Ten</b> album comes at a time when the guys really need to consolidate just what they stand for and solidify an ever changing line-up.<br /> And I think this album does somewhat address both those questions, but at the same time, <font color="#00ffff">Heresy & Creed</font> is a very good album that is hindered by a poor choice of sequencing and therefore a middle section that really tests my patience.<br /> There are some moments of greatness here, but a few fillers also. With a few tweaks (which the digital age does allow), the result is a very strong <b>Ten</b> album that should please the majority of their fans and prove that the band can continue to add to their legacy for some time to come.<br /> The band has made a few mistakes in recent years and this album almost covers them – if not for a couple of clunkers.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Heresy & Creed</font> introduces us to yet another <b>Ten</b> line-up, but let me say that from the power witnessed within this album, this line-up is the strongest since the original (and best line-up) and guitarist <b>Dan Mitchell</b> is a real demon. He fits perfectly into the sound and style of the band and is the best guitarist featured on a Ten record since the departure of <b>Vinny Burns</b>.<br /> Great to hear <b>John Haliwell</b> back shredding and the rhythm section of <b>Steve McKenna</b> (welcome back also) and new drummer <b>Max Yates</b> gives the songs the necessary backing power they deserved.<br /> This album sees <b>Ten</b> ramp up the sound to match that of the heaviest of their catalogue, such as <font color="#00ffff">Spellbound</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Babylon</font>.<br /> The songs are all pretty epic with 6 of them around the 6 minute mark and none shorter than 4:10.<br /> <br /> The opening bombastic double shot of melodic metal in <font color="#ffff00">Arabian Knights</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Gunrunning</font> are two of the toughest tracks I've heard from <b>Gary Hughes</b> in a long time.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Lights Go Down</font> makes it 3 for 3 to kick off the album, with this track feeling like a great old-school Ten hard rocker.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Raven's Eye</font> is another classic <b>Hughes/Ten</b> track, building from a haunting intro into a mid-tempo moody epic. This is the best opening sequence to a Ten album since <b>Vinny Burns</b> left.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Right Now</font> is where things start to unravel for me though. The mid-tempo plodder misses the mark hook wise and I think would have been better relegated to bonus track status.<br /> I'd rather have seen a ballad about now and the latter album track <font color="#ffff00">Another Rainy Day</font> would have been perfect.<br /> In fact, this is where I'd start reworking the entire track sequence as following <font color="#ffff00">Right Now</font> is the brilliant fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Game Of Hearts</font> followed by the epic ballad <font color="#ffff00">The Last Time</font>, which as good as it is, I still think it is too long for this point in the album – I'd have dropped it down the back more.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Priestess</font> is another track I'd drop entirely. I just can't warm to the lyrics and the whole song falls into that annoying plodding pace again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Insatiable</font> is also a little dodgy in the lyrics department, but I love the song. The mood and the pace are classic Ten and I think Gary's vocals are also very appealing.<br /> Now to that great uptempo ballad <font color="#ffff00">Another Rainy Day</font> – a perfect old-school Ten melodic song and lost in the album this far in.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Unbelievable</font> is another fired up rocker and along with the last couple of tracks sees the album reach the highs of the opening quarter.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Riddle</font> is another great ballad – dominated by piano this time as it builds into the type of epic ballad we've come to know from <b>Gary Hughes</b>.<br /> <br /> I have had the benefit of hearing the Japanese bonus track <font color="#ffff00">I Found Love</font>. This is a killer haunting piano ballad whose inclusion would have made this album even better and balanced out the “metal” with the “melodic” a little more – creating what I believe would have been a really killer song list. I would bring in this track and relegate <font color="#ffff00">Right Now</font> to the bonus track.<br /> So for the record and for those interested in alternative theories, my ideal track listing would have been:<br /> - <font color="#ffff00">The Gates Of Jerusalem (Instrumental), Arabian Nights, Gunrunning, Lights Go Down, Another Rainy Day, Game Of Hearts, Raven's Eye, The Riddle, Insatiable, Unbelievable, The Last Time, I Found Love.</font><br /> <br /> Or without the JP bonus track: <font color="#ffff00">The Gates Of Jerusalem (Instrumental), Arabian Knights, Gunrunning, The Lights Go Down, Another Rainy Day, Game Of Hearts, Raven's Eye, The Riddle, Insatiable, Unbelievable, The Last Time, Right Now.</font></font><br />   <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 are purchasing the CD straight up, this is still a very good album with some great moments. The production is first rate (the best I've heard from <b>Ten</b> in ages – thanks <b>Dennis Ward</b> and <b>Gary Hughes</b>) and the energy within the heavier tracks is terrific. The songs are very consistent apart from those couple of weak spots and while the middle section might be a bit slow, the opening sequence is brilliant as is the closing selection of tracks. I think that overall, Ten fans will be well pleased. </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> <a href="ten-thetwilightchronicles.p3">The Twilight Chronicles</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stormwarning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heresy & Creed</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, Guitars, Programming<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dan Mitchell, John Halliwell:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Max Yates:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve McKenna:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Darrel Treece-Birch:</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> - Stormwarning<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 Gates Of Jerusalem (Instrumental)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Arabian Knights <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Gunrunning <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>The Lights Go Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Raven's Eye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Right Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Game Of Hearts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>The Last Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>The Priestess<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Insatiable <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Another Rainy Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>Unbelievable <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong>The Riddle<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>Night Ranger</b> <font color="#ffffff">24 Strings And A Drummer</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/nightranger-24stringsandadrummer.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Night Ranger</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> November 2</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Night Ranger</b> wrap up an amazing 18 months featuring sold out tour dates, a triumphant double hit on the UK and their best studio album in years. Now to celebrate 30 years as a band, the most iconic tracks of their career are delivered live and acoustic style in front of a friendly intimate crowd in San Francisco. There's a lot to like about this release.<br /> First of all, the songs are stripped right back and tweaked ever so slightly for the acoustic delivery and the energy is turned right up. The infectious energy of these guys, with a line-up that has now stabilized thanks to the brilliant <b>Joel Hoekstra</b> and new boy <b>Eric Levy</b> on keyboards, flows through these songs like never before.<br /> Predictably, all the hits are rolled out here, pretty much mirroring the set list the band has taken out on the road with them for the last couple of years.<br /> That means there aren't any real surprises here, which is probably my only disappointment. It would have been great for the die-hard Ranger fans like me to hear some deep cuts like <font color="#ffff00">Night Ranger, Seven Wishes, Colour Of Your Smile, Rumours In The Air</font> or <font color="#ffff00">Interstate Love Affair</font> included.<br /> The upside is that these songs featured are so well versed, the guys could play them blinded folded and gagged, so what you get is a super sick performance with some of those ingrained quirks that constant touring brings into the songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">This Boy Needs To Rock</font> is given a chorus reworking; <font color="#ffff00">When You Close Your Eyes</font> is raw and emotional; <font color="#ffff00">Growin' Up In California</font> has all the energy of a new song and <font color="#ffff00">The Secret Of My Success</font> is transformed from a keyboard heavy track into an acoustic dream.<br /> One of my all-time favorites <font color="#ffff00">Sentimental Street</font> is preceded by a wonderful keyboard solo and features a brilliant vocal and then segues into the <font color="#ffff00">Four In The Morning</font> – another all-time classic melodic rock song.<br /> Things stay laid back thru <font color="#ffff00">Let Him Run/Goodbye</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Forever All Over Again</font>.<br /> Then it's all hands to the six strings as <font color="#ffff00">Don't Tell Me You Love Me</font> unleashes shredding from heaven. <font color="#ffff00">Sister Christian</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Rock In America</font> show just what masters of the guitar Brad and Joel are – the shredding and plucking is unbelievable.<br /> The album closes out with the recently revived 80s <b>Don Henley</b> hit <font color="#ffff00">Boys Of Summer</font>. <b>The Hooters</b> have been covering it also for the last few years. Another solid version that stays true to the original with some great harmonies.<br /> And did I mention how insane the harmonies are throughout? This is just one great live band – unplugged or in full flight.</font><br />   <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 it's mainly for the die-hards and those that dig the acoustic environment, and there are no real surprises track wise, but it's quality performances of long since classic songs, so what more could you ask for?<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Touch Of Madness</font> remains out there as a bonus track for collectors – I'd really have liked to have seen that included. The bonus track issue really leaves fans short sometimes. </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 Patrol<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Madness<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 7 Wishes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Man In Motion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="nightranger-neverland.html">Neverland</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="nightranger-seven.p3">Seven</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="nightranger-holeinthesun.p3">Hole In The Sun</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Somewhere In California<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 24 Strings & A Drummer</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>Jack Blades:</b> Vocals, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brad Gillis:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joel Hoekstra:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kelly Keagy:</b> Vocals, Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Levy:</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>Night Ranger</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Unplugged Albums</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 Boy Needs To Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When You Close Your Eyes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sing Me Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Growin' Up In California <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Secret Of My Success<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sentimental Street <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Four In The Morning <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let Him Run / Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever All Over Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Tell Me You Love Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sister Christian<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> (You Can Still) Rock In America <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Boys Of Summer (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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Dare</b> <font color="#ffffff">Calm Before The Storm 2</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Legend 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/dare-calmbeforethestorm2.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Darren Wharton</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="https://twitter.com/DarrenWharton" target="new">twitter.com/DarrenWharton</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="#9c8d79" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</b> <font size="1">If New to Album</font><br /> <b>75%</b> <font size="1">If CBTS Already Owned</font></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>Dare</b> are truly one of my favourite AOR acts of all time. Nobody does moody and emotional like <b>Darren Wharton</b>. It goes without saying that the debut Dare album <font color="#00ffff">Out Of The Silence</font> remains one of the best AOR records of all time.<br /> The heavier follow up <font color="#00ffff">Blood From Stone</font> is also a cracking record and the original release of <font color="#00ffff">Calm Before The Storm</font> (1998) is another brilliant record.<br /> But since then we've only had three more studio albums of varying success - <font color="#00ffff">Belief</font> (2001), <font color="#00ffff">Beneath the Shining Water</font> (2004) and <font color="#00ffff">Arc of the Dawn</font> (2009). That's a long time between drinks for fans of the band. On par with <b>Def Leppard's</b> rare output actually.<br /> The music of the last three albums become increasingly softer and more Celtic influenced, so the fan base has become increasingly vocal about a return to a rockier path.<br /> Which brings us to the year 2012. I'm quite sure frontman <b>Darren Wharton</b> isn't going to appreciate some of my comments that follow, but I have to call it as I see it…as a fan…and he knows how much I love the band.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Calm Before The Storm 2</font> is a record that gives me quite conflicting emotions.<br /> <br /> First – the good. It sounds great. The total re-recording of the album has given Darren the chance to give the album a fuller production and while the delivery is no great departure from the originals, the production is sharper, the mix is crisper and the guitar parts stand out as the most obvious improvement over the original album. So mission accomplished as far as that goes.<br /> There are some slight tweaks within a few songs – <font color="#ffff00">Walk On The Water's</font> chorus is sung a little differently and several of the songs have a minute or so cut from their original length, but with little overall impact.<br /> Backing vocals are improved also; case in point the track <font color="#ffff00">Someday</font>.<br /> The two new inclusions (<font color="#ffff00">Still In Love With You</font> is left off) are the songs <font color="#ffff00">Precious</font> (some nice guitar work here and strong chorus, good track) and <font color="#ffff00">Cold Wind Will Blow</font> (another really solid song, previously released as a bonus track on the original European release).<br /> <br /> Now for the not so good. The question of 'why?' comes to mind. The guys have spent a whole lot of time and expense recording this album again from scratch, but for what gain?<br /> I'm guessing half of the fans of the original release will buy this again, but I can't see it appealing outside the already established fan base. Is there really that great of an advantage to re-record an album that already sounded pretty damn good as it was? I understand the reclaiming of publishing rights and control over the material, but again…at what commercial gain overall?<br /> For me as a fan – it merely makes the time of waiting for an album of all new material that more frustrating. That's mainly because of the time <b>Dare</b> takes to do anything.<br /> If we already had a new album released last year, then this wouldn't seem so strange to do. If we absolutely knew we'd get a new studio album in the next 6 months or so, then the same would apply.<br /> But it's already been 3 years since the last album and do we now have to wait the traditional 3-4 years between albums for whatever comes next? That's stretching the patience of fans a little too far if so.<br /> For me <font color="#00ffff">Calm Before The Storm</font> was an album I already played half to death back in 1998-1999. I know every note, hook and part of it. <font color="#00ffff">Calm Before The Storm 2</font> therefore took me all of 2 plays to be familiar with it and another dozen plays to enjoy the songs again, but now I'm ready to move on.<br /> Therefore the shelf life of this album for me has been 4 weeks and now I have to wait how long for the next release? That's my main issue here and I apologize for raising it, but I reckon others are going to feel the same way.</font><br />   <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"> For those that have come to know <b>Dare</b> in the last few years and don't yet own this album – then I insist you purchase it, as it is filled with some killer songs and the upgraded performances and sound make it a brilliant album for those that will come in to the material from a fresh perspective. And it has that more dominant guitar driven sound we are all craving from Dare.<br /> But for those that have had the original from day 1 – there isn't much extra here to get excited about for long. </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> Out Of The Silence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blood From Stone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dare-calmbeforethestorm.p3">Calm Before The Storm</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dare-belief.p3">Belief</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dare-beneaththeshiningwater.p3">Beneath The Shing Water</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dare-arcofthedawn.p3">Arc Of The Dawn</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calm Before The Storm 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>Darren Wharton:</b> Vocals & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Dews:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kevin Whitehead:</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>Dare</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> Walk On The Water <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Calm Before The Storm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Crown Of Thorns <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Precious<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Silence Of Your Head <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rescue Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ashes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rising Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold Wind Will Blow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Deliverance<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>Impera</b> <font color="#ffffff">Legacy Of Life</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/impera-legacyoflife.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Lars Chriss</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">An impressive line-up of Scandi talent can be found on the debut <b>Impera</b> album. Dummer <b>JK Impera</b> has played with Bruce Kulick, Graham Bonnet, Vinnie Vincent, John Corabi, Brian Robertson; bassist <b>Mats Vassfjord</b> has appeared with Vinnie Vincent, John Corabi, Scaar, Grand Design, Laney's Legion and vocalist extraordinaire <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b> is well known for his own solo records as well as Jagged Edge, Scott Gorham, Skintrade, Road To Ruin, Red White & Blues.<br /> Then there is guitarist <b>Tommy Denander</b>, who has played on every other Scandinavian record known to mankind.<br /> This new project is planned to be an ongoing affair it seems, with production on the debut by <b>Lars Chriss</b> of Lion's Share fame, who gives the album a thumping and crisp sounding result.<br /> This is a good album absolutely. But I also see some points that to me are immediately obvious and if addressed would make this band an even more attractive prospect for the future. And they definitely have a future.<br /> The first is <b>Tommy Denander</b>. With Tommy on guitar you already know the sound that the whole record will have. His guitar tone has barely changed in the 15 years I have been reviewing his releases and it's the same again here. The rhythm guitar parts that comprise the bulk of the album are all the same tone that we've heard on all his records from <b>Radioactive</b> to <b>Frederiksen/Denander</b>, to <b>Spin Gallery, AOR, Robin Beck</b>…the list goes on.<br /> This is not saying anything about him as a player – I think this record is one of the highlights of his playing to date. There are some storming riffs on this album and I'm actually excited to hear him playing some heavier material. And I must say that there are several absolute blinding guitar solos within the album. More please Tommy! I'm just suggesting that to make the jump to the next level, there has to be some more variation in tone in the future.<br /> Additionally, some of the songs here are quite simple. They rock yes, but there aren't a whole lot of big choruses to hold on to and some of the songs have very basic structures and can sound a little repetitive.<br /> Vocalist <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b> is one of the top voices of Sweden and I'll happily listen to him sing anything, any day. But I do think the material on this album leaves him singing within himself at times. The choruses don't lift like one might expect and that leaves Matti singing on autopilot at times. I think the repetitive nature of a few songs leaves Matti with nowhere to go. At a mere 39 minutes, the album felt as if it lasted 50.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Turn My Heart To Stone</font> opens with a crunch and some groove orientated guitar from Tommy. A great sounding lead break too and Matti sounds fabulous as always.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Kiss Of Death</font> is the highlight of the album for me – nice riffing and fast paced tempo with one of the album's stronger choruses. Guitars everywhere here.<br /> The promising start is temporarily halted with the pretty slow and repetitive <font color="#ffff00">Break The Law</font>.<br /> The much stronger and groovy <font color="#ffff00">Shoot Me Down</font> is a tempo lift and a good hook and double kick drum chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sunset Rider</font> is another groove heavy track, but the chorus is barely there.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tell Me</font> is somewhat better, but the pace and chorus follows the previous track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">More Than Meets The Eye</font> is a furiously paced rocker with a sensational Denander solo, but the groove based chorus is again pretty simple.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Is This Love</font> is back into the simple mid-pace style of some other tracks. No chorus, but some great background riffing from Tommy and a fine solo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Show Me The Money</font> is a pretty good song. The chorus isn't huge, but it works and the song is another of my preferred tracks. A little <b>Eddie Van Halen</b> in there perhaps Tommy?<br /> If there was any doubt over <font color="#ffff80">Show Me The Money</font>, then <font color="#ffff00">Deadend Street</font> definitely sounds like early Van Halen, I know Tommy's a big fan there. Great guitar sound here – Tommy needs to do more of this. Matti contributes a good vocal here and a decent chorus too.</font><br />   <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 good start to what I hope is an ongoing career. No ballads here, but perhaps one might have helped vary the pace a little more. It reminds me of the overall vibe of the <b>Frederiksen/Denander</b> album and I felt that a ballad or two was missing there also. The pace is up throughout and you can't help but tap your feet along, but some bigger choruses and more variety in the guitar tone would have been even 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">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> Legacy Of Life</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>Matti Alfonzetti:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tommy Denander:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>J.K. Impera:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Vassfjord:</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>Radioactive/Tommy Denander</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matti Alfonzetti</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> Turn My Heart To Stone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kiss Of Death <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Break The Law<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shoot Me Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sunset Rider<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> More Than Meets The Eye <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Is This Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Show Me The Money<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Deadend Street <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>Pink</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Truth About Love</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">RCA</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/pink-thetruthaboutlove.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 68</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.pinkspage.com" target="new">Pink</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="195"> <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">Some will cringe at the mere inclusion of pop/rock/dance songstress <b>Pink</b> in these pages, but I think she's fabulous. Most of the time. Yes, it's true that I harbor a secret obsession for her to hook up with <b>Butch Walker</b> for a full album rather than just a few tracks per release (which are always among the album's best tracks), but that will likely never happen due to her need to cover as many musical bases per album as possible and not alienate anyone. That means that for me, each album will always contain a few duds, but at the same time, there are always a few gems too.<br /> <b>Pink</b> is one hell of a vocalist and performer and her best quality is the unshakable conviction of her commitment to each song.<br /> On <font color="#00ffff">The Truth About Love</font> there is some 17 tracks to pick from if you include Deluxe Editions etc… Of those, I can live with about 13, which is probably her best ratio since the utterly brilliant <font color="#00ffff">I'm Not Dead</font> album.<br /> Favourites on this album are the moody, but powerful opener <font color="#ffff00">Are We All We Are</font> (co-written with <b>Butch Walker</b>); the hit single <font color="#ffff00">Blow Me</font>; the moody Try, which has a truly great chorus; the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Just Give Me A Reason</font>; the happy go lucky <font color="#ffff00">True Love</font>; and the pop/punk anthems <font color="#ffff00">Walk Of Shame</font> and <font color="#ffff00">How Come You're Not Here</font>; the absolutely blinding acoustic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Beam Me Up</font> and the 'regular' album closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">The Great Escape</font> – what amazing vocals.<br /> Average – the over programmed title track and <font color="#ffff00">Where Did The Beat Go</font>. Just ok tracks.<br /> Absolutely waste of space tracks are <font color="#ffff00">Slut</font> – surely included for shock value only and the heavy dance beat of <font color="#ffff00">Here Comes The Weekend</font> (with Eminem).<br /> The deluxe edition adds 4 tracks, the first three are produced and co-written with <b>Butch Walker</b>. <font color="#ffff00">My Signature Move, Is This Thing On</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Run</font> are all kinda moody and all very good modern pop songs. Not sure why they were relegated to bonus features.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Final Days</font> is a happy go lucky acoustic/synth singalong. Another cool 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"> A lot of effects and synth production, ruling this album out for a lot of readers here. But if you dig some pop infusion between the hard rock regulars, <b>Pink</b> is about as good as it gets and about as pop as I will ever go. This is one of her more consistent records and I like it a lot. </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>Pride Of Lions</b> <font color="#ffffff">Immortal</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">FRCD566 </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-immortal.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">After a few years away, <b>Pride Of Lions</b> returns with the same formula that saw three previous albums gain considerable traction in the melodic rock fan base.<br /> And album number 4 sees the band right on song as far as what fans have come to expect from the pairing of <b>Jim Peterik</b> and <b>Toby Hitchcock</b>, along with Jim's regular group of ace session players and engineer <b>Larry Millas</b>.<br /> And despite this being the 4th solid and consistent album in a row for the guys, <b>Pride Of Lions</b> still has their detractors. Mainly because the <b>Jim Peterik</b> penned songs dare to break out of the genre and challenge listeners to broaden their range as Jim dabbles with songs featuring a theatrical flair, lyrics of hope and inspiration, plus a certain pomp-rock aspect.<br /> But that aspect is just one part of POL's sound. The other half is nothing less than classic melodic rock, blending 40 years of songwriting experience in the genre with touches of 80s <b>Survivor</b> style brilliance.<br /> And making the songs come to life is powerhouse vocalist <b>Toby Hitchcock</b>, whose range and similarly theatrical delivery make him the perfect muse for Peterik's songs.<br /> And it should come of no surprise that I remain a firm and dedicated fan of <b>Jim Peterik's</b> songs – he can do no wrong in my eyes, even when he channels his youthful enthusiasm into anthems some might deem a little over the top – or dare I say – cheesy lyrics.<br /> That's not a word I would use though, not when you know just how passionate Jim is about his songs and the message of hope he tries to deliver within them.<br /> <br /> That all said, <b>Pride Of Lions</b> also has a very dedicated following among the AOR fans and for those, I say this album is squarely aimed at them.<br /> This album is for me the group's best since their classic debut. I think it is the best produced album to date and one of the most consistent in terms of song quality, despite being another very diverse set of tunes once again.<br /> And Toby sounds unnaturally amazing throughout. His growth as a singer has come so far in his time together with Jim.<br /> Some question why <b>Jim Peterik</b> is singing some parts of the album when a vocalist of Toby's ability is right there with him. But I think that's part of the groups charm and Jim's deeper vocals contrast the highs of Toby's voice.<br /> <br /> Musically the album <font color="#00ffff">Immortal</font> has it all. Pomp, AOR, theatrical twists Andrew Lloyd Webber would be impressed with and of course a couple of sentimental monster ballads.<br /> In the straight ahead AOR category, you just don't get better than the rocking title track <font color="#ffff00">Immortal</font>; the breezy feel good anthemic bliss of <font color="#ffff00">Delusional</font> (the message of which I unapologetically love); <font color="#ffff00">Shine On</font> - with the deep contrasting operatic vocals of the opening giving no indication of the anthem to follow; the fast and furious <font color="#ffff00">Vital Signs</font> (yes, written for that <b>Survivor</b> album in the 80s); and the brisk rocker <font color="#ffff00">Ask Me Yesterday</font> that closes the album with a bang.<br /> Moody, mature melodic rock doesn't get better than the brilliant <font color="#ffff00">Tie Down The Wind</font> (more inspiring lyrics); the dramatic <font color="#ffff00">Coin Of The Realm; If It Doesn't Kill Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Sending My Love</font> – a track that really does have a Survivor feel.<br /> Ballads don't get any bigger than <font color="#ffff00">Everything Money Can't Buy</font> and the heart stopping <font color="#ffff00">Are You The Same Girl</font>.<br /> The album features more guitar riffs than previously and a great drum performance courtesy of Kelly Keagy on six of the album's 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"> Another great <b>Pride Of Lions</b> album – the best since their first two back to back classics – if you are already a fan. If not, this probably won't change your mind.<br /> But for those of us that are – a bright and energetic selection of songs, terrific performances, inspiring lyrics and some first rate pomp-melodic rock.</font><br />   <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<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="prideoflions-theroaringofdreams.p3">The Roaring Of Dreams</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Immortal</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> Lead Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jim Peterik:</b> Guitars, Keyboards, Lead Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Aquino:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kely Keagy, Ed Breckenfield:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Clem Hayes, Bobby Lizik:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Thom Grifin, Marc Sherer:</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>Jim Peterik</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Toby Hitchcock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pride Of Lions</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> Immortal <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Delusional <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tie Down The Wind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine On <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Everything That Money Can't Buy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Coin Of The Realm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sending My Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vital Signs <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If It Doesn't Kill Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Are You The Same Girl <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ask Me Yesterday <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>Dokken</b> <font color="#ffffff">Broken Bones</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">FRCD567 </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/dokken-brokenbones.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Don Dokken</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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="195"> <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>Dokken</b> return with their third album with guitarist <b>Jon Levin</b> at the helm. Jon really deserves so much credit for keeping Dokken alive since he joined. He is the spark of energy that drives these tunes and his guitar playing cannot be undersold. He really is a star. And once again he stars on <font color="#00ffff">Broken Bones</font>.<br /> Over the past few years the quality of <b>Don Dokken's</b> vocals have been called into serious question, with other singers used in the studio to cover the high notes and various insults thrown at the singer when he appears live.<br /> And once again he is the weakest link on this record, but that said, he knows this and sings well within himself, keeping a relatively low and dark vocal tone on the songs with <b>Mark Boals</b> on hand to provide solid backing vocals and some of the required squeals.<br /> I think people in general (and fans in particular) no longer expect much from Don and rather concentrate on the work of Levin, which as stated, is outstanding.<br /> The album is also very well produced I must say. A nice clean sound and good crunch around the lead guitar riffs.<br /> <br /> The opening salvo of the storming <font color="#ffff00">Empire</font> and the moodier <font color="#ffff00">Broken Bones</font> give longtime fans a lot to get excited about. True, quality classic Dokken songs.<br /> The pace seems to slip a little with each song, but the quality is still there with the dark and heavy <font color="#ffff00">Best Of Me</font> with its appealing chorus and the slower, but equally dark <font color="#ffff00">Blind</font> also delivering.<br /> Then comes two Don penned songs (the other originals are all <b>Jon Levin/Dokken</b> compositions). <font color="#ffff00">Waterfall</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Victim Of The Crime</font> are just slow plodding tracks that feature very plain chorus breaks (if you could even call them a chorus).<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Burning Tears</font> rescues things somewhat, even if the pace remains incredibly slow. It might have stood out even further if not for the previous couple of tunes.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Today</font> is a curious inclusion and marks 4 songs in a row with a slow tempo. The “folk rock ballad” was originally recorded by <b>Jefferson Airplane</b>. I don't like it at all, but it gives Don a chance to sing in a comfortable range.<br /> The last 3 songs of the album perk things back up to where I'd prefer the whole album to have been.<br /> The rocker <font color="#ffff00">For The Last Time</font> sees the tempo lifted finally and a strong chorus returns.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fade Away</font> is mellower, but features a solid guitar performance and a catchy refrain too. <font color="#ffff00">Tonight</font> closes the album much as it started – with an uptempo flourish and some classic Dokken riffs. </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 basically we have two thirds of a great album here. The opening 3-4 tracks are great and the closing trio is also very good and very enjoyable. The middle 3 or 4 are somewhat patchy, with two absolute dogs in there. But those aside, the Dokken name lives on.</font><br />   <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> Breaking The Chains<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tooth And Nail<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Under Lock And Key<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back For The Attack<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beast From The East<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dokken<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dysfunctional<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Night Only<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadowlife<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dokken-erasetheslate.p3">Erase The Slate</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dokken-livefromthesun.html">Live From The Sun</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live '95<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dokken-longwayhome.p3">Long Way Home</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dokken-helltopay.p3">Hell To Pay</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="dokken-lightningstrikesagain.p3">Lightning Strikes Again</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Bones</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>Don Dokken:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jon Levin:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mick Brown:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barry Sparks:</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>Jon Levin fronted Dokken</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> Empire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Bones <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Best Of Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waterfall<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Victim Of The Crime<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burning Tears<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Today<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For the Last Time <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fade Away <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tonight <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>Magnum</b> <font color="#ffffff">On The 13th Day</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">SPV 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/magnum-onthe13thday.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Tony Clarkin</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.magnumonline.co.uk" target="new">Magnum</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">I adore <b>Magnum</b>. I don't love all their albums though. Most! Just not all. But the decade from 1985 that spawned <font color="#00ffff">On A Storyteller's Night, Vigilante, Wings Of Heaven, Goodnight LA</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Sleepwalking</font>. 5 for 5 run that barely any other artist can match.<br /> Six great albums if you include <font color="#00ffff">Rock Art</font> (and 4 of those are all-time classics for me – <font color="#00ffff">Storyteller, Vigilante, Wings & Sleepwalking</font>) is something to be immensely proud of, but many fans are still holding on for one more classic. <b>Magnum</b> have come mighty close in form of <font color="#00ffff">On The 13th Day</font>, the brand new album that sees the band continuing to grow still after all these years.<br /> I didn't get into the first couple of post-reformation albums much and rarely play. But last year's <font color="#00ffff">The Visitation</font> was a big step up and now this takes things even further.<br /> This album is more varied than ever, giving a taste of all kinds of <b>Magnum</b> history including the very early days, right up to their last album. The guys give their best shot at pleasing most longtime fans with a mix of what they are best at.<br /> I have only 2 issues with the album overall. I still miss that big string of anthemic choruses and pomp backed tunes. More keyboards too!<br /> I think songwriter <b>Tony Clarkin</b> is still resisting a return to the old style as no album since reforming has touched on the style that carried the band through the 85-95 decade.<br /> Secondly – the sequencing is not what I would personally have gone with. I don't like the order of the songs as the band has chosen. I think it makes the album a little choppy, but overwhelmingly, I do like the songs themselves.<br /> <br /> Opening with a slow plodding 7 minute rock song is never going to float my boat and I just don't think it sets up the album properly. Especially when the band has been accused of overdoing the plodding pace in recent albums. Instead, I'd close the album with this epic – just as the band has done in the past.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blood Red Laughter</font> is a fine uptempo melodic rock song with some tasteful <b>Bob Catley</b> vocals in play.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Didn't Like You Anyway</font> is another pretty slow track, but it's quirky in only the way <b>Magnum</b> can do, especially with the guitar riff. And the chorus picks up the pace to make it a winner.<br /> The 6 minute title track is terrific – I like this track a lot and its one of the best post-reunion songs delivered to date. It gives off a <font color="#00ffff">Sleepwalking</font> style vibe.<br /> If <font color="#ffff00">On The 13th Day</font> is one of the band's best recent tracks, then <font color="#ffff00">So Let It Rain</font> must be the best. What a terrific feel good pomp rocker and what a great sing-along chorus. More of this please lads!<br /> The super heavy and ultra-dark slow rocker <font color="#ffff00">Dance Of The Black Tattoo</font> is another great track, but I don't like where it sits in the album and I don't like it following the breezy <font color="#ffff00">Let It Rain</font>. I'd knock it back a few tracks, but great heavy song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shadow Town</font> is another uptempo feel good song with plenty of keyboards and a little of the good ol' pomp about it. It's a good change up after the heaviness that was the last song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Putting Things In Place</font> is undervalued at track 8. I'd have pushed it further up the album to act as the ballad after some uptempo openers. This is a lesson in Moody Rock Songs 101. Terrific melancholy song with lots of keys and a great Catley vocal again. An album highlight.<br /> Now <font color="#ffff00">Broken Promises</font> is such a fine track, but totally out of place. I would have had this right up the front of the album. It features a nice growing into that bursts to life in typical modern <b>Magnum</b> style and would have been a great way to set up this album with the song I would have opened up with - <font color="#ffff00">See How They Fall</font>. The quirky track with a menacing lead guitar into would have been a killer opening track and gets to the point so much quicker than <font color="#ffff00">All The Dreamers</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">From Within</font> is another wonderful mid-tempo AOR style song with a passionate vocal. I'd have placed this before <font color="#ffff00">All The Dreamers</font> as the last two songs on the album. A winner at any rate and a strong chorus.</font><br />   <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 heart of the matter is the songs. And <font color="#00ffff">On The 13th Day</font> is packed with quality <b>Magnum</b> songs – their best set of songs since reforming. The production varies a little between songs and I really don't like the sequencing, but in today's digital age, you only have to re-arrnage and load them into i-Devices accordingly, or burn another disc. That done, it makes for a wonderful record.<br /> <br /> For the record – there's my best attempt at re-sequencing the album:<br /> <font color="#ffff00">1) See How They Fall 2) Broken Promises 3) So Let It Rain 4) Putting Things In Place 5) On The 13th Day 6) Didn't Like You Anyway 7) Shadow Town 8) Dance Of The Black Tattoo 9) Blood Red Laughter 10) From Within 11) All The Dreamers.</font></font><br />   <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> <a href="magnum-breathoflife.p3">Breath Of Life</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="magnum-brandnewmorning.p3">Brand New Morning</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="magnum-princessaliceandthebrokenarrow.p3">Princess Alice & The Broken Arrow</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="magnum-intothevalleyofthemoonking.p3">Into The Valley Of The Moonking</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Visitation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evolution<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The 13th 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>Bob Catley:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Clarkin:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Harry James:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al Barrow:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Stanway:</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>Magnum of course!</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 The Dreamers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blood Red Laughter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Didn't Like You Anyway<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The 13th Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> So Let It Rain <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dance Of The Black Tattoo <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shadow Town <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Putting Things In Place <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken Promises <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> See How They Fall <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> From Within <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>Bonrud</b> <font color="#ffffff">Save Tomorrow</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">ESM243 </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/bonrud-savetomorrow.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Keith Olsen & Paul Bonrud</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 47</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">A new label, a new singer and a new attitude. That sums up the sophomore release from US guitarist <b>Paul Bonrud</b> and his band, which now features the raspier tones of <b>Rick Forsgren</b> on vocals.<br /> And moving away from the more pure AOR of the debut, <font color="#00ffff">Save Tomorrow</font> is a far grittier release, blending some great commercial melodic rock moments with harder edge material that allows Paul to show off is guitar skills to far greater advantage.<br /> The hard rock aspect of this album is also more contemporary sounding, but don't confuse this for being too heavy or a modern rock record. No, it is just classic hard rock with a contemporary edge in places.<br /> It's also still very melodic and very likable and thank to producer <b>Keith Olsen</b>, sounds a million bucks.<br /> This really is one of those albums that could so easily slip through the cracks between better known artists, which would be criminal, as the album stands on its own and delivers a thoroughly cracking good selection of songs and deserves to be heard by all.<br /> <br /> The hard rocking <font color="#ffff00">We Collide</font> is a monster song and the thumping production and classic “metal” voice of Forsgren gives this album the kind of <b>Dokken</b> vibe that Dokken themselves can't reach today.<br /> The menacing riff heavy <font color="#ffff00">Bullet in the Back</font> is even better and simply thumps through the speakers.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">American Dream</font> is classic 80s hard rock while <font color="#ffff00">Save Tomorrow</font> takes a raspy vocal and turns the album back towards a more melodic rock/AOR territory. A killer chorus makes this a worthy title track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Liquid Sun</font> is a more contemporary sounding slow burn rocker, again contrasted by the feel good melodic rock of <font color="#ffff00">I'd Do Anything</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Last Sunrise</font> continues the back and forth nature of the middle album sequence, turning heavier again, with its counterpart, the very catchy <font color="#ffff00">Torn Apart</font> switching back to the lighter side.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blinded</font> is as gritty as the album gets with a memorable riff and strong old school hard rock chorus. As expected, <font color="#ffff00">Dominoes</font> is lighter and breezier with some sing-along moments.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You're The One</font> is a terrific <b>Bryan Adams</b> style melodic rocker and <font color="#ffff00">End of Days</font> is a slow starting moody rocker that flows into a great chorus to end the album with another highlight.<br /> Special mention of the awesome artwork comissioned by Paul especially for the album and the change of logo distances <b>Bonrud</b> from that "Journey Scarb" theme that pops up so much.</font><br />   <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>Paul Bonrud</b> may have cranked up the sound here for a heavier direction, but the melodies and hooks come thick and fast just as they did on the debut.<br /> I think that everything about <font color="#ffff00">Save Tomorrow</font> is better than the debut – more consistency in songwriting, better production, a style that really suits Paul and singer Rick and more energy throughout. A highly recommended album for all melodic rock fans.</font><br />   <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> Bonrud<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Tomorrow</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 Forsgren:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Bonrud:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Higgins:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> With:<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard Baker, Eric Ragno, Dave Gross:</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>Bonrud</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fans of Amercian 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> We Collide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullet in the Back <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> American Dream <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Tomorrow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Liquid Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'd Do Anything<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Sunrise<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Torn Apart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blinded<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dominoes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You're The One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End of Days<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>Redline</b> <font color="#ffffff">Vice</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">ESM245 </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/redline-vice.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Redline</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">These UK rockers released their debut album independently, finding some traction in the market and setting themselves up for better things. Well, this new album is those better things in action.<br /> I'm surprised how solid an album this is. This is a fast moving, hard rock album with a melodic metal approach at times, especially with the aggressive lead vocals of <b>Kez Taylor</b> who gives it his best <b>Ronnie James Dio</b> inspired blast, song after song.<br /> Three of the first 4 tracks are all flat-out rockers and I must say that the album really grabs my attention.<br /> This is old, old school classic melodic metal. This is 80s meets 70s classic British stuff that fans of <b>Iron Maiden, Dio, Rainbow, Black Sabbath</b> and the like.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Battle Cry</font> and especially <font color="#ffff00">King Of The Mountain</font> blow my socks off. <font color="#ffff00">No Limits</font> and the more restrained <font color="#ffff00">Twistin' The Knife</font> also impress.<br /> There is a ballad in the midst of all of this and it's the fabulously sung <font color="#ffff00">Cold Silence</font> (complete with orchestral backing) that inspires. And of course, it turns heavy – that's just the way it has to be!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Edge Of Falling</font> is another stong song with memorable chorus and riff heavy commercial approach.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">We Came To Rock</font> closes the album with riffs galore. If the message isn't clear enough – this track seals the verdict.</font><br />   <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"> What we have here is a no frills, no bullshit, no messing about hard rock record with real attitude and that traditional British approach to metal. A very solid album for lovers of the heavier side of things and a huge step up from the band's indie debut.</font><br />   <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> Redline<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vice</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>Kez Taylor:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ade Yeomans, Steve Petty:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Biddiscombe:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Hill:</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>Fans of 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> Battle Cry <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> King Of The Mountain <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Sky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Limits<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Twistin' The Knife<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold Silence <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> High Price to Pay<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Edge Of Falling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Some Kinda' Mean<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Came To Rock <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>Threshold</b> <font color="#ffffff">March Of Progress</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/threshold-marchofprogress.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Threshold</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 69</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.thresh.net" target="new">Threshold</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">UK progressive metal outfit <b>Threshold</b> has been through a few singers, but for me it was the dynamic vocals of <b>Mac</b> that defined the band in their recent years, which is only when I started discovering them.<br /> So with the band's first album without Mac (RIP), I'm still listening for his vocals to take control. This time around, progressive vocalist <b>Damian Wilson</b> – the man behind the earliest days of the band has returned.<br /> Style wise the guys have picked up where the marvelous <font color="#00ffff">Dead Reckoning</font> (2007) left off. So perhaps this could be considered a mix of the old and the new, but make no mistake – the result is powerful progressive rock at its very best.<br /> Nothing is perhaps as catchy as the massively infectious opening track (and single) <font color="#ffff00">Ashes</font>, which is one of the best progressive tracks I have ever heard and is trademark <b>Threshold</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Hours</font> does give it a run for its money – all 8 minutes plus of it! Another truly epic prog number.<br /> The impassioned <font color="#ffff00">That's Why We Came</font> is another highlight for me, which is bookended by <font color="#ffff00">The Hours</font> and another classy 8 minute epic in <font color="#ffff00">Don't Look Down</font>.<br /> The relatively short and to the point <font color="#ffff00">Coda</font> is another late album highlight.<br /> For me this is where the best of the album lays. And we haven't even touched on the 10 minute masterpiece <font color="#ffff00">Rubicon</font> that closes the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Return Of The Thought Police</font> took a long while to grow on me. Initially I thought it too slow to follow the awesome opener.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Staring At The Sun</font> is also fairly slow, but the glorious chorus makes up for any pace issues.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Liberty Complacency Dependency</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Colophon</font> are both solid songs also.</font><br />   <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 there is no weak tracks here if you are a dedicated <b>Threshold</b> fan. And if you haven't heard the band before, there is no reason why not to start right here.<br /> They do <b>Dream Theater</b> better than DT do themselves and the production is just amazing.<br /> There is so much music to absorb here, so be prepared to spend a lot of time on this record for it to pay off. Some just don't have that time. But it is worth it.<br /> I do think the album is a little mellower than expected after such a long gap between records and I don't rate it quite as highly as <font color="#00ffff">Subsurface</font> or <font color="#00ffff">Dead Reckoning</font>. Plus I'd love another anthem or two like <font color="#ffff00">Ashes</font>, but the overall result is still a great progressive rock album.</font><br />   <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> Psychedelicatessen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wounded Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Extinct Instinct<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Clone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hypothetical<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Critical Mass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Subsurface<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="threshold-deadreckoning.p3">Dead Reckoning</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> March Of Progress</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>Damian Wilson:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Karl Groom, Pete Morten:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johanne James:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Anderson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Richard West:</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>Threshold</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Damien Wilson</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> Ashes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Return Of The Thought Police<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Staring At The Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Liberty Complacency Dependency<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Colophon <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Hours <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> That's Why We Came <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Look Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Coda <font color="#ff0000">*</font><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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Kix</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live In Baltimore</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">FRCD568 </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/kix-liveinbaltimore.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Schenker</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU/USA</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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">These kind of releases are very squarely aimed at established fans. Nothing about this release is going to bring on new fans of <b>Kix</b>.<br /> But for long time fans it is good to see the guys back and they sound as energetic as ever.<br /> The CD/DVD set represents good value for money and the 12 tracks covered hit on all the best known songs.<br /> The 16 minute <font color="#ffff00">Yeah Yeah Yeah</font> is a bit over the top though – the spoken crap through the middle is a little juvenile.<br /> And I don't rate this the best live recording ever either. It's a bit rough and ready and it won't be something I come back to.<br /> But I look forward to a new studio album in 2013.</font><br />   <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"> Die hard fans only. Simple.</font><br />   <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> Kix<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cool Kids<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnite Dynamite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blow My Fuse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot Wire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Show Business</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 Whiteman:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ronnie "10/10" Younkins, Brian "Damage" Forsythe:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimmy "Chocolate" Chalfant:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Schenker:</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> No Ring Around Rosie<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Atomic Bombs<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lie Like A Rug<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Close Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Girl Money<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cold Shower<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She Dropped Me The Bomb<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blow My Fuse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Kix Are For Kids<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnite Dynamite<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Yeah, Yeah, Yeah</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Eclipse</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bleed & Scream</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">FRCD563 </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/eclipse-bleedandscream.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Erik Martensson & Magnus Henriksson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#b11b1c" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>100%</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">Ok, so I'll just throw this out there. This is one of the very finest hard rock albums I have heard in my time running this site. I expected a lot…I mean an awful lot as the last <b>Eclipse</b> album was well deserving of a perfect score also…but the guys have topped it again. I feel honored to review it. Swedish rockers <b>Eclipse</b> released one of the best albums of 2008 in <font color="#00ffff">Are You Ready To Rock</font> and now they have perhaps delivered the finest album of 2012.<br /> The production on this album is just immeasurably good. I mean absolutely amazing. The mix is glorious, with obvious hooks giving light to less obvious twists beneath the many darker layers to absorb.<br /> The guitar sound is so intense that my ears reach 'warning-light red' each playback. This is one of those monstrous albums that deserve to be ranked up there with the likes of <b>Whitresnake's</b> <font color="#00ffff">1987</font>, <b>Masterplan's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Aeronautics</font> and <b>Steelhouse Lane's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Slaves Of The New World</font>. Genre defining greatness.<br /> <br /> Some people make their minds up after 1 listen. Others judge on soundbytes alone. As this album is only released this week, I expect a few will naturally question the overwhelming enthusiasm I have for this album – but trust me – I've been living with it for 2 months or more now and I'm still completely addicted to it. Grab it, play it in full, play it again and again and be forever hooked.<br /> Everything about this album appeals to me. Every note makes me smile and when you consider the aim of any artist is to grow and develop their sound, <b>Eclipse</b> has done precisely that over the course of 4 albums dating back to the 1999 debut.<br /> Each album has progressed naturally from the last and each one has upped the ante a little too. On <font color="#00ffff">Bleed & Scream</font>, <b>Eclipse</b> does that once again.<br /> It's almost as if every ounce of their being has been poured into the songs and the perfect execution of them. And for those that think Eclipse is a one-man show, think again.<br /> <b>Erik Martensson</b> is a genius, without question, in my mind (here he does vocals, guitars, bass, co-writing, mixing, co-producing, mastering). But his partner in crime <b>Magnus Henriksson</b> (guitars, co-production, co-writer) is just as important a factor, the duo working tirelessly over a four year period to get the songs for this album perfected.<br /> Drummer <b>Robban Back</b> has an almighty sounding kit on this album, pounding away relentlessly and with Erik on bass, he provides a powerhouse rhythm section to fuel these wonderful songs.<br /> It does take a little time to get to know all parts of this album and the many ins and outs of each song, but there is so much to listen to within, but what rewards come for the listener.<br /> At first the heaviness and intensity caught me off guard. But now it sounds so natural for the guys.<br /> <br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> I initially thought <font color="#ffff00">Wake Me Up</font> wasn't the best song to kick off the album, despite a powerful explosion of sound right up front. But listen after listen only proved me so wrong. It's a masterful song to kick off the album, with the absolute ear shattering intensity of the drums being one of its strongest points. The other is the raging guitars and shredding nature of the solos. The chorus is simple, but grows and the vocals are awesome. It takes but 1 minute to set up a new sound for this album and the band generally. The perfect introduction.<br /> The huge wall of sound that is <font color="#ffff00">Bleed And Scream</font> only intensifies the album further with the fast rolling melodic hard rocking title track. A massive chorus this time with soaring vocals and more pounding drums….plus more obvious keyboards (from <b>Johan Berlin</b>, who is also superb throughout). This has to be one of the Songs Of The Year for me. It has everything I love about rock n roll in it – pounding rhythm, huge guitars, soaring vocals and a ton of melody. And what a great guitar solo!<br /> The pace doesn't let up for one second with the arrival of <font color="#ffff00">Ain't Dead Yet</font>. In fact, it just gets faster. The double kick drum hard rocker has an epic feel to it and the riffs come think and fast. The only thing I love better than heavy riffs, is heavy riffs accompanied by a really likeable melodic vocal and Erik has that totally covered. I love the higher pitch style with heavy music.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Battlegrounds</font> is another epic song that reminds me of prime <b>Whitesnake</b> <font color="#00ffff">1987</font> era hard rock. <b>John Sykes</b> eat your heart out. The verse hits hard and the chorus is as catchy as they come. The chorus is a definite salute to Gary Moore as is some of the riffing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">A Bitter Taste</font> is an absolute revelation for me and for Eclipse fans. It's heavy, it's big, it's melodic gold. The song starts heavy, and then slows before building to a magnificent fists-in-the-air anthemic eruption. But then it's slow again before it fully erupts into a two minute guitar frenzy of soloing and double kick-drum madness. My only wish – that it kept on going by returning back to the slower way the song started. Immense!<br /> You might think the pace would ease a little by now, but no. The big drum intro of <font color="#ffff00">Falling Down</font> and the furious pace that follows shows how much the band are here to kick your ass. Riffs as furious as <b>John Sykes</b> at his best and <b>Roland Grapow</b> in <b>Masterplan</b> are the name of the game. All with the ever melodic vocals of Erik.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">S.O.S</font> is heavy as usual, but perhaps a little easier on the intensity and perhaps the most commercial track on the album, especially with another great anthemic chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Take Back The Fear</font> sees that the sonic blast of this album intensifies further with another flat out furious rocker. In fact, it might just be the heaviest track of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Unspoken Heroes</font> features another great chorus and yes, more uptempo in your face guitars and vocals. It's a little progressive in nature and super catchy with layers and layers of music to unravel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">About To Break</font> is the only song that might be classed as a ballad on the album and even then, it's pretty heavy despite it's more emotional base. Great melodic vocals again, subtle keyboards and a knockout soaring chorus once again.<br /> Closing this immense statement of an album is the equally brilliant and hard rocking <font color="#ffff00">After The End Of The World</font>. Another fine heavy rocker and big vocal/guitar tradeoff and the closing 2 minutes of the song is somewhat “out there”, but suits the intensity of this whole epic album by ending it on a 'calm' 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"> Bleed & Scream is like the heaviest moments of the <b>Toby Hitchcock</b> album, the intensity of the <b>W.E.T</b> debut, mixed with the melodic parts of the band's own <font color="#00ffff">Are You Ready To Rock</font> mixed with the super production of <b>Whitesnake's</b> <font color="#00ffff">1987</font>. Quite simply, there is no volume I can play this album loud enough on. Each time I throw it on, I max out everything to the point of deafness. It just can't be played loud enough. Ever!<br /> As stated – one of the finest albums I have featured on this site and one I have no hesitation in awarding full points – the first such occurrence for 2012. </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 Truth And A Little More<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Second To None<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Are You Ready To Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleed & Scream</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 Mårtenssom:</b> Bleeding Vocals, Guitar & Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Henriksson:</b> Screaming Lead Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Robban Bäck:</b> Roaring Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Johan Berlin:</b> Epic 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>Toby Hitchcock</b> - Mercury Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Martensson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eclipse</b> - Are You Ready To Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Whitesnake</b> - 1987</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 Me Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleed And Scream <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ain't Dead Yet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Battlegrounds <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Bitter Taste <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> S.O.S <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Back The Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Unspoken Heroes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> About To Break<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The End Of The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffffff">--</font><font color="#ff0000">*Best Tracks (If I really have to pick...)</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>Hess</b> <font color="#ffffff">Living In Yesterday</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">FRCD564 </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/hess-livinginyesterday.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 39</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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">It's the battle of the ex-Harem's as both <b>Harry Hess</b> and <b>Pete Lesperance</b> release new solo albums this month. While Pete goes the mellower singer/songwriter route, <b>Harry Hess</b> produces, writes and delivers what is essentially a 'missing' <b>Harem Scarem</b> album - a moody mid-tempo slice of melodic rock bliss that doesn't stray far from the style of recent <b>Harem Scarem</b> albums <font color="#00ffff">Higher</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Hope</font>.<br /> The album moves away from the modern pop of Just Another Day and focusses more on modern melodic rock with a bigger emphasis on electric guitar.<br /> The album does concentrate on moodier mid-tempo numbers and overall isn't an anthemic uptempo album as such, but the songs are just brilliant and in typical Harry Hess style, his vocals and additional harmonies are layers deep in emotion and power.<br /> At 10 tracks and 37 minutes, there is no padding and no filler – it's straight to the chorus every time.<br /> Harry sounds as strong as ever and definitely gives his voice a harder edge than his debut solo release.<br /> <br /> Opening with the uptempo and anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Living In Yesterday</font>, the album turns moodier with the wonderfully catchy <font color="#ffff00">Reach For You</font>, but remains uptempo.<br /> The passionate and emotional <font color="#ffff00">It's Over</font> and the harder edge <font color="#ffff00">Don't Leave Me</font> are both truly classic moody Hess at his best and lead into the big orchestral ballad What If.<br /> These last three songs are all pure brilliance.<br /> The stomping melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Last Forever</font> lifts the tempo and the mood before another lush mid-tempo ballad <font color="#ffff00">Falling Down</font> delivers another knockout melody.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Live For You</font> seems safe enough until a powerful chorus vocal and hook lifts the song into another realm.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Wanna Want You</font> (co-written with <b>Tommy Denander</b>) has to be Harry's audition song for Pink or Katy Perry. I can so hear this song on modern pop radio sung by any number of Top 40 artists. As commercial and as modern as it gets and a slight left turn from the rest of the album.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Where To Run</font> is a monster orchestral ballad to close the album. Moody as hell and drenched in emotion. An album highlight amongst many other great 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"> Essential for <b>Harem Scarem</b> and <b>Hess</b> fans. An absolute quality release, with no fluff or filler, just 10 fantastic mellowish melodic rock songs with a modern touch, but a very familiar 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> Just Another Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living In Yesterday</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> Lead Vocals, Keyboards, Backing Vocals, Additional Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pete Lesperance:</b> Guitars & Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Creighton Doane:</b> Drums<br /> Guests: Howie Simon, Magnus Karlsson, Chris Green, Tommy Denander, Marcie Free, Darren Smith. </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>Harry Hess</b><br /> <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> Living In Yesterday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reach For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's Over <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Leave Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What If <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nothing Lasts Forever <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Live For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Wanna Want You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where To Run <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>Loverboy</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock N Roll Revival</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">FRCD565 </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/loverboy-rocknrollrevival.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Dean (Bob Rock on Tks 2 &3)</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> August 24</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">So, after releasing one of the best examples of old-meets-new music in the form of the last <b>Loverboy</b> album <font color="#00ffff">Just Getting Started</font>, the band returns a couple of years later with only 3 new tracks and a host of re-recorded hits.<br /> Now that really does suggest to me that the band is admitting defeat as far as realizing how much effort can go into new material only to have it largely ignored.<br /> The commercial failure of <font color="#00ffff">Just Getting Started</font> is nothing short of criminal and blame must fall at the feet of the band's chosen record label at the time for their absolute lack of promotion of the album and the band's subsequent reluctance to play any of the new songs live.<br /> So what we have here is 3 new songs to go with the recent trend of re-recording classic hits to regain publishing rights from past draconian major label contracts.<br /> But what appears pretty straight forward on the surface actually has a little more depth and I think in turn will appeal to a greater number of people if given the chance.<br /> First to the new songs – 3 very good songs here, 2 absolute winners and a what-could have been. Let me explain.<br /> <br /> In early 2011 the band teamed with famed producer <b>Bob Rock</b> once again to record two brand new tracks, one of which was the uplifting rocker <font color="#ffff00">Heartbreaker</font>, released as a single later in 2011, which was nothing short of classic <b>Loverboy</b>. The modern sound had been shed and the band sounded in top form with a song that should have been a hit.<br /> The other track was kept on ice until now. <font color="#ffff00">No Tomorrow</font> is an equally impressively produced monster ballad with a melodic verse and a big hook chorus.<br /> The third track is in fact the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Rock 'N' Roll Revival</font>. No one can fault the message in the song and it is a quality tune with a decent singalong chorus. But the production (self-produced by the band) is utterly horrible and unforgiveable in this day.<br /> I can only surmise that it was rushed, as the band self-produced <font color="#00ffff">Just Getting Started</font> with no issues and also the re-records featured here. The mix is a mess, the song lacks impact and the repetitive cymbal crashing is totally distracting. A waste of a good song sadly.<br /> <br /> The quality of <font color="#ffff00">Rock N Roll Revival</font> had me very worried about the quality of the re-records, but thankfully there is no issue there. I am in fact, quite blown away by the awesome energy the band has managed to harness with these 9 songs.<br /> Rather than stay faithful to the original studio versions, the band has decided to showcase these songs as they are performed live. According to <b>Paul Dean</b> on the album's EPK, some of the versions here are live, although where and when is impossible to pick as the liner notes provide no information. It does feel as if you are listening to a live show, apart from the lack of audience noise. The band add extra solos, fills,<b> Mike Reno</b> throws in a few extra lines and the band generally stretch out on some of their classics.<br /> The approach is heavier and punchier and I like it a lot.<br /> Most noticeable is <font color="#ffff00">Working For The Weekend</font>, which simply sizzles; <font color="#ffff00">Lovin' Every Minute Of It</font>, which features a fantastic lengthy extended guitar solo and drum fills; more shredding extra guitar during <font color="#ffff00">Kid Is Hot Tonite; Queen Of The Broken Hearts</font> (a personal favourite) is heavier than ever with a really hard hitting riff and <font color="#ffff00">Hot Girls In Love</font> is stretched to 8 minutes plus with a 3 minute instrumental closing jam, which some might say is a little pointless as it has little to do with the song, but those guys can play. </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"> My only issue here aside from the horrible production of the opening new track, is the 9 track selection of re-records. Why only 9? A few more would not have hurt and wouldn't have cost any extra to include. <font color="#ffff00">Take Me To The Top, Notorious</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Jump</font> could all have been included, not to mention a ballad perhaps (<font color="#ffff00">This Could Be The Night</font>?).<br /> Other than that, I love the vibe and energy going on here and I love 2 of the 3 new tracks, so for this long time diehard Loverboy fan, <font color="#00ffff">Rock N Roll Revival</font> gets a thumbs 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> Loverboy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get Lucky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovin' Every Minute of It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wildside<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> VI<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just Getting Started<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock 'n' Roll Revival</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 Reno:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Dean:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Frenette:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ken "Spider" Sinnaeve:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Doug Johnson:</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>Loverboy</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> Rock 'N' Roll Revival<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Tomorrow <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heartbreaker <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn Me Loose<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Working For The Weekend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lovin' Every Minute of It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Kid Is Hot Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lucky Ones<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Always On My Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Queen Of The Broken Hearts <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When It's Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hot Girls In 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Rush</b> <font color="#ffffff">Clockwork Angels</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Roadrunner 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/rush-clockworkangels-album.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Rush & Nick Raskulinecz</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 64</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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 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.rush.com" target="new">Rush</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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"><font color="#00ffff">Clockwork Angels</font> is <b>Rush's</b> latest opus – a band that seemingly never tire – despite being on the road on and off since 1974 and delivering some of the most acclaimed progressive rock in recorded history.<br /> So what does a band with such pedigree have to offer in 2012? Plenty it seems. <font color="#00ffff">Clockwork Angels</font> is an absolutely amazing album of sheer power and energy, delivering vibrant new sounds, familiar melodies and some indescribably complex passages of intense music cover 65 minutes of compelling progressive hard rock.<br /> While it would be fair to say I am some way behind in delivering this review, I'd rather say this record was undergoing 'extensive additional evaluation'. Or, in simpler terms, I needed more time with it! For one cannot “rush” a <b>Rush</b> review. There is simply too much to take in and this is one of the band's most complex albums ever.<br /> Ok, so it's anything but commercial and I for one would love to see a return of the Rush “chorus years” of <font color="#00ffff">Hold Your Fire, Presto</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Roll The Bones</font>.<br /> I still love what I'm hearing here, but it really did take a lot of work to get to know this record. I fear that casual fans won't give it that extra time needed – if so they are going to miss out on a real gem of a record.<br /> <br /> There are some quite extraordinary passages of music within this album. Complex and thought provoking and one is occasionally left puzzled over how the band came up with some of the side journey's these songs take.<br /> As I stated, the downside is that the record as a whole is seriously non-commercial. At least on initial impressions. It really takes some work to get into these songs, but once you put in that hard work you can appreciate the amazing performances.<br /> And credit goes to all involved for a wonderful production and seriously crisp mix. The drums of Peart, the thumping bass of Lee and the ear splitting riffs of Lifeson are simply amazing. The drum sound in particular is stunning on this album and I find myself marveling over Peart's performance constantly.<br /> As the time would indicate, this is a long album and apart from a couple of songs under 4 minutes, the rest are 5 mins plus including four 7 minute epics. So once you've spent a month with this album – what stands out the most?<br /> Aside from the obvious mention of individual performances, the songs that stand out the most include <font color="#ffff00">Caravan; Carnies</font>; the mellow/heavy blend of <font color="#ffff00">Halo Effect</font>; the thumping bass of <font color="#ffff00">Seven Cities Of Gold</font> and the classic style <b>Rush</b> of <font color="#ffff00">The Wreckers</font> – easily the most commercial song of the album and something that reminds me of <font color="#00ffff">Roll The Bones/Test For Echo</font> era.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Headlong Flight</font> is also a terrific track and the twisting melodies of <font color="#ffff00">Wish Them Well</font> also rates highly.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Garden</font> has a beautiful haunting quality to it and closes the heavy, bombastic album with a sense of calmness. </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 first half of the album is as challenging as <b>Rush</b> has ever been and the second half is a touch less intense and more melodic. Together the songs of this concept album leave the listener breathless after a solid hour of sonic brilliance. Rush may have been around since before electricity, but they sure know how to keep it fresh and energetic and this album is another highlight of a lengthy distinguished 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> Signals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Grace Under Pressure<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Power Windows<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold Your Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Presto<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Roll The Bones<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Counterparts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Test For Echo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Vapor Trails<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Snakes & Arrows<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Clockwork Angels</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>Geddy Lee:</b> Bass, Bass Pedals, Vocals, Synthesizers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Lifeson:</b> Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Twelve-String Guitar, Additional Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Neil Peart:</b> Drums & 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>Rush of course!</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Prog Metal Fans</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> Caravan <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> BU2B <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Clockwork Angels<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Anarchist<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carnies <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Halo Effect <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Seven Cities of Gold <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Wreckers <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headlong Flight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> BU2B2<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wish Them Well <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Garden<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>Triumph</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live At Sweden Rock</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">FRCD555 </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/triumph-liveatswedenrock.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Triumph</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> August 24</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> 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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>75%</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">Love <b>Triumph</b>, adore <b>Rik Emmett</b>, was happier than anything to see the band come back together in 2008 for the <b>Sweden Rock Festival</b> performance, but why on earth has it taken 4 years to get this released?<br /> This is a nice, clean and well mixed live concert of that one and only appearance. Sadly the band hasn't been seen since. Anywhere.<br /> A few points – for me, the CD is far more enjoyable than the DVD. There is something about the appearance on the DVD and the syncing of the audio that just doesn't seem right.<br /> The second point is that the set list was deemed disappointing by a lot of folks following the event. There are only 10 tracks in 70 minutes with every track featuring extended jamming and soloing. It just seemed a bit excessive when so many other classic <b>Triumph</b> classics weren't given any chance of inclusion for this one off special event.<br /> I find it easier to put the CD on and work away with it playing in the background than some other concert performances which demand attention throughout.<br /> <b>Rik Emmett</b> still sounds great and the individual musicianship is unquestionably good.<br /> The question posed is that how far outside the diehard section of the fanbase will this set appeal to? My guess is not far. </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 CD/DVD combo is a nice package and diehards will absolutely appreciate it – but at the same time – due to the selective set list and the fact this was now 4 years ago, I don't see it appealing outside a dedicated circle. </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">Classic Line-Up Studio 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> Triumph<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock & Roll Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just A Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Progressions of Power<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Allied Forces<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thunder Seven<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Sport Of Kings<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Surveillance</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>Rik Emmet:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gil Moore:</b> Drums, Lead Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Levine:</b> Bass, Keyboards<br /> with/ <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dave Dunlop:</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>Triumph</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> When The Lights Go Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lay It On The Line<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Allied Forces<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Surrender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Live For The Weekend<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blinding Light Show<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rocky Mountain Way<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Magic Power<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fight The Good Fight</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Place Called Rage</b> <font color="#ffffff">Place Called Rage</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">ESM242 </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/placecalledrage.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Al Pitrelli</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> August 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Blues 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="195"> <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">For the uninitiated, <b>Place Called Rage</b> is a low key “all-star” project from 1995 – recorded at the peak of those ugly grunge years. Many mistook this release at the time for a modern rock release, when in fact it is really an ultra-bluesy retro/classic rock record. One that could easily be mistaken for a “lost” <b>Little Caesar</b> album in fact. The all-star band consists of New Jersey natives <b>Al Pitrelli</b>: Guitars; <b>Tommy Farese</b>: Lead Vocals; <b>Danny Miranda</b>: Bass; <b>Chuck Bonfonte</b>: Drums.<br /> Vocalist <b>Tommy Farese</b> is a dead match for Little Caesar's <b>Ron Young</b> and the style is very familiar too. Hard blues rock with smokey vocals and plenty of riffs and a certain swagger in the delivery.<br /> Nothing is as catchy as the uptempo blues rocker <font color="#ffff00">I Know Where You Been</font>, but there are still plenty of good tracks such as the swampy ballad <font color="#ffff00">Take It Lying Down</font> and the acoustic driven tracks <font color="#ffff00">Someday</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Can't Find My Way Home</font>.<br /> There is also a few fillers like the slow and tedious hook free <font color="#ffff00">What These Eyes Have Seen</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Jenny Doesn't Live Here Anymore</font> is a fine ballad with some piano added in for good measure.<br /> The style of this album limits the appeal somewhat, but it still sounds pretty fresh today after some 17 years since its original release. </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 very strong record – if the style and the mood suits. If it doesn't, then best try something else. But when the mood strikes for some smokey blues rock with a retro vibe, <b>Place Called Rage</b> is going to be one of those go-to records. </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> Place Called Rage</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 Farese:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al Pitrelli:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chuck Bonfonte:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Danny Miranda:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Mangold:</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>Bluesy Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Al Pitrelli</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Little Caesar</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 Know Where You Been <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Place Called Rage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Trapped<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take It Lying Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Someday <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Child<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What These Eyes Have Seen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Find My Way Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jenny Doesn't Live Here Anymore <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Thunderbox<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We're Not Coming Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chained To Maniac<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>Empires Of Eden</b> <font color="#ffffff">Channelling The Infinite</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie / Music Buy Mail</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/empiresofeden-channellingtheinfinite.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Stu Marshall</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 65</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.empiresofeden.com" target="new">Empires Of Eden</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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>Empires Of Eden</b> is the very ambitious third album from mastermind <b>Stu Marshall</b> (guitars, writing, production). Joining him here is one of the more impressive guest line-ups for one of the many metal projects that come and go.<br /> There is something about the <b>Empires Of Eden</b> project that will not only help this release stand out from the crowd, but should also help establish the name as one of those must-hear albums due to the sheer quality of what's on offer.<br /> Channelling the Infinite is a mind-blowingly heavy record – a true representation of traditional metal at its absolute best.<br /> Of the vocalists involved, not all may appeal (Udo the most obvious in my mind), but there is something within each song that does work, making the whole record something of a head banging epic.<br /> There's over an hour of super intense metal and screaming vocals, loud pulsating riffs and a rhythm section heavy enough to cause brain hemorrhaging. <b>Stu Marshall</b> is to be commended for not only a monster production and a bulk of the instrumentation, but for writing some really compelling songs.<br /> Importantly, this doesn't sound like a one man show musically. The mix plays an important part as does powerhouse shred drummer <b>Jasix Prowlingwolf</b>.<br /> Although I wouldn't say there are any weak spots, highlights within the album include the intense <font color="#ffff00">This Time</font> (vocals by <b>Steve Grimmett</b>); the thunderous <font color="#ffff00">Hammer Down</font> (painfully screeched vocals by <b>Udo Dirkschneider</b>); the triple time Judas Priest metal of <font color="#ffff00">Channelling the Infinite</font> (vocals by <b>Sean Peck</b>); the super catchy <font color="#ffff00">Lions for Lambs</font> (vocals by <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b>) - complete with AOR harmonies; the equally commercial <font color="#ffff00">Your Eyes</font> (<b>Mike DiMeo</b>) and the metal onslaught of <font color="#ffff00">Born A King</font> (powerful vocals from <b>Danny Cecati</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"> To listen to this album start to finish is an exhausting affair, so prepare yourself. It is a truly heavy and intense beast, but so well pieced together that I think metal fans everywhere should be running out to grab this if they haven't already. Possibly the best hour of metal on offer in 2012. </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> Songs Of War & Vengeance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reborn In Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Channelling The Infinite</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>Stu Marshall:</b> Guitars, Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jasix Prowlingwolf:</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>All Vocalists Listed</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Melodic Power Metal</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Stu Marshall</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> Cry Out (Vocals By Rob Rock) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hammer Down (Vocals By Udo Dirkschneider) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Time (Vocals by Steve Grimmett) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Channelling The Infinite (Vocals By Sean Peck) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lions For Lambs (Vocals By Alessandro Del Vecchio) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cyborg (Vocals By Carlos Zema)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World On Fire (Vocals By Louie Gorgievski)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Your Eyes (Vocals By Mike Dimeo) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born A King (Vocals By Danny Cecati)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Flames Scorch The Ground (Vocals By Vo Simpson)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> White Wings (Vocals By Ronny Munroe)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hammer Down All Star Version (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born A King (Bonus Track) (Vocals By Sean Peck)<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>Liberty & Justice</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hell Is Coming To Breakfast</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Roxx Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">RRCD-LJ02 </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-helliscomingtobreakfast.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> JK Northrup</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 45</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.libertynjustice.net" target="new">Liberty And Justice</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">It's hard to believe that the <b>Liberty & Justice</b> name has been around 20 years now. Their early days seem to have been almost incognito compared to the strong online presence the band has these days and the big names stalwart Justin Murr attracts to be part of the line-up.<br /> More recently Justin has paired up with guitarist/producer <b>JK Northrup</b> to helm the band and take control of their sound. That can only be a good thing as my biggest complaint about these albums in the past has been the mixed styles and sound quality within each release.<br /> I really do admire the songwriting of Murr; he comes up with some memorable tunes – even if they are all over the musical planet at times (modern, pop/punk, melodic rock, AOR and even metal).<br /> And teaming with JK has also added a new dimension to the songs. We'll get the full benefit of that with the upcoming 2CD set <font color="#00ffff">The Cigar Chronicles</font>.<br /> Meanwhile <font color="#00ffff">Hell Is Coming To Breakfast</font> is a compilation of 7 tracks that won't make that set plus 5 other alternative mixes/rarities from the endless cycle that is the L&J recording machine.<br /> And as usual, there's a mix bag here (songs and production), but for the most part, the songs are enjoyable and memorable. Even when one of my lesser liked vocalists in <b>Donnie Vie</b> sings on <font color="#ffff00">Madhatter</font> I like the results.<br /> Murr and Northrup have a knack of bordering on modern sounds with a classic rock heart. The <b>Johnny Lima</b> sung rocker <font color="#ffff00">Whack A Mole</font> is one of those.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Thankful Heart</font> sung by <b>Philip Bardowell</b> is an absolute melodic rock gem – it's hard to reason why this track didn't fit onto the Chronicles set!<br /> JK's own sung <font color="#ffff00">Nakatomi Plaza</font> is a tribute to <b><i>Die Hard</i></b> the movie and contain the duo's usual tongue in cheek lyrics.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Get Down</font> is a good one for fans of <b>Tony Mills</b>, very catchy but perhaps lacing in production quality a little.<br /> The previously unreleased <b>David Cagle</b> sung <font color="#ffff00">You Memory Just Won't Do</font> is a sweet acoustic ballad and <font color="#ffff00">Thy Will Be Done</font> is sung by <b>Jamie Rowe</b> in authorative fashion.<br /> <b>Jack Russell</b> delivers a great vocal on <font color="#ffff00">Monkey Dance</font> (Alt. Mix) and <b>Jani Lane</b> makes his final vocal appearance on the heat wrenching track <font color="#ffff00">Sin</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 a compilation of tracks rather than a fully-fledged album and if taken as such, there's a lot to like here. It stays true to what we have come to expect from the L&J name over the last few years. One thing though – the guys need to seriously look at the quality of their artwork! </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<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Independence Day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Light It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hell Is Coming To Breakfast</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>Christian Hard Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>JK Northrup</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Artists Involved</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> "Hell Is Coming To Breakfast" Seann Nicols (Adler's Appetite / Tarsha), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Madhatter" Donnie Vie (Enuff Z' Nuff), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Chris Dickens (Mission Of One) & Tommy Denander<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Whack A Mole" Johnny Lima, JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Jerry Johnson (Saint) & Richard Lynch (Saint) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Thankful Heart" Philip Bardowell (Magdalen/Unruly Child), Lynn Louise Lowrey (Vixen/Testify), & Anthony Gravley <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Nakatomi Plaza" JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Greg Bishop (X-Sinner) & Scott Weisenborn (Testify) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Stretch Armstrong" Louis St August (Mass), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ)& Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Get Down" Tony Mills (TNT/ Shy), Mark Allen Lanoue (Chasing Karma/ Bilioxi), & Anthony Gravley<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Your Memory Just Won't Do" [Previously unreleased on CD] David Cagle, Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot) & CJ Snare (Firehouse) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Thy will be done" [demo] Jamie Rowe (Guardian)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "What do you believe?" [Original demo of 'Do what you believe'] Mike Ledesma (Far Cry) Vic Rivera (Crunch)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Monkey Dance" [Alternate Mix] Jack Russell (Great White)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> "Sin" [Acoustic Version] Jani Lane (Warrant) <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>Jeremey Frederick</b> <font color="#ffffff">Every Little Thing</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/jeremeyfrederick-everylittlething.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Jeremey Frederick</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.jeremeyfrederick.com" target="new">Jeremey Frederick</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Jeremey is best known for his work as tribute artist and in the rhelm, best known for fronting Journey tribute band <b>Frontiers</b> and for also getting a shot ot fronting the band post-<b>Steve Augeri</b>. He scored a co-write on the song Never Walk Away from Revelation.<br /> This is his debut solo album and shows off the range in his voice as well as his penchant for sounding like a latter era <b>Steve Perry</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Can't You See He's Gone</font> is a memorable way to kick off the album, a uptempo feel good pop/rocker with some small comparison to Journey's <font color="#ffff00">I Can See It In Your Eyes</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Every Little Thing</font> has a more organic feel to it and Jeremey's vocal has a soulful, moody touch, but the best part of the song is some great guitar work and a feel good hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stay</font> is a classic Perry soloesque number – with soul turned up a notch for an enjoyable pop ballad.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lotus</font> has a strong vocal and piano and another catchy chorus, but some added programmed beats makes it seem as if two different songs are playing at the same time during the verse. Interesting effect, but the song might have been better off as a stripped back piano lead vocal number.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Think I Know</font> is a slow bluesy and sultry song that takes the album in another direction again. Some soft brass accompaniment gives it a jazzy feel at times.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What Can I Do</font> is a light and breezy melodic rock song with more <b>Steve Perry</b> comparisons at the ready and a catchy chorus to hold onto.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Hoping For You</font> is another ultra-slow, but classy soulful vocal track with more Perryisms throughout. Some nice harmony vocals too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Goodnight Song</font> sees the album flip flopping between slow and sultry and breezy pop/rock. More tasteful guitar work here and a mid-tempo beat.<br /> A 1 minute prelude seeps into the closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">This Is Your Life</font>. What a way to close the album and what a monster ballad. Complete with big harmonies and a hook worthy of any mainstream artist or even Mr. Perry himself.<br /> Musically speaking, there is a lot of depth to this album and a lot of that credit must to go to <b>Jeremey</b> who played a lot of the instruments here. But also to the undeniably awesome duo of <b>Vic Rivera</b> and <b>Eric Ragno</b> who both appear throughout the album, Vic in particular supplying drums and guitar parts for several 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"> This album stays true to Jeremey's diverse talents and is a quality release from an artist struggling to make a name for themself. Of course if there was any justice that wouldn't be an issue. So if you are a fan of moody, soulful melodic rock with a twist and admire the <b>Steve Perry</b> style delivery of vocals, this really must be sampled. </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> Every Little Thing</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><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>Journey</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Perry</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> Can't You See He's Gone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Every Little Thing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lotus<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Think I Know<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Can I Do <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hoping For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Goodnight Song<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Prelude (Jeremiah 1:5)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is Your Life <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>John Taglieri</b> <font color="#ffffff">Lucky #9</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/johntaglieri-luckynumber9.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> John Taglieri</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 24</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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/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.johntaglieri.com" target="new">John Taglieri</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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>John Taglieri</b> straddles the line between classic rock and modern pop, with a sense of the singer/songwriter style about him. His recordings stretch back a dozen years, this being release number 9, with some full length albums and some EPs to his name. This is another EP – 6 tracks of no frills American pop/melodic rock. I have admired John's work for some time now and really like his tone – a mid-range tone somewhere between <b>Danny Wilde</b> and <b>Johnny Lima</b>.<br /> And he also delivers a similar style to <b>Danny Wilde</b> – that acoustic driven happy go lucky pop sensibility, often slowed down for sentimental reasons or sped up and electrified for the harder hitting numbers (<font color="#ffff00">Losing Me, I Never Knew</font>).<br /> But where John is at his best is those mid-tempo semi-acoustic pop rockers (<font color="#ffff00">Without You, Make Me Believe</font> and the slightly epic <font color="#ffff00">Not Gonna be My Life</font>).<br /> A strong and consistent release. </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>Driver</b> <font color="#ffffff">Countdown</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</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/driver-countdown.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> 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> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</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">There are few better melodic metal messengers than the trio of <b>Rob Rock</b> – vocals, <b>Roy Z</b> – guitars and <b>Ed Roth</b> – keyboards. On the latest <b>Driver</b> release they are joined by <b>Aaron Samson</b> - bass guitar and <b>Reynold "Butch" Carlson"</b> – drums – the same line-up as the comeback <font color="#00ffff">Sons Of Thunder</font> release. This is another solid all-metal affair with much of the same ingredients as the Herman Frank release – with the added bonus of <b>Rob Rock's</b> hell raising vocals and <b>Roy Z's</b> crunching guitars and skilled knowledge working in the studio.<br /> For that reason this is a big sounding release with all the power and crunch expected of Rob Rock and the Driver name. However, I'm not feeling this album as much as I do the <b>Herman Frank</b>. The sound is there, the power is there, but I'm not sure the songs are strong enough overall.<br /> There are a few definite highlights like <font color="#ffff00">Countdown</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Feel The Fire</font> and I do like the fact there are a couple of slower tracks to mix up the album a little.<br /> The best of the metal ballads being <font color="#ffff00">Always On My Mind</font>.<br /> But there are a few fillers also – and I thought the opening two tracks were two of the weaker numbers included. Normally you can safely bet on those tracks being among the best. </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>Herman Frank</b> <font color="#ffffff">Right In The Guts</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Metal Heaven</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/hermanfrank-rightintheguts.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> Herman Frank</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <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">In a nut-shell, it does exactly what is says on the tin – gives the listener a kick in the guts! German guitarist <b>Herman Frank's</b> new solo album rips through 50 minutes of high octane traditional heavy metal with an equal dose of booming vocals, double kick drum madness and wailing guitars that shred faster than an industrial wood chipper. Yes, it's completely over the top in places, but what else would you expect from the guitarist from <b>Accept, Victory & Moon'Doc</b>?<br /> I'm not sold on all the tracks and the tempo is quite relentless, but as far as a traditional metal release goes, this does tick all the boxes and is well produced. Vocalist <b>Rick Altzi</b> wasn't involved in Herman's debut solo album <font color="#00ffff">Loyal To None</font> and his involvement here is I think a bonus for the album and for fans. Very strong and dominating vocals, which is needed with power metal albums such as this.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Waiting, Roaring Thunder</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Right In The Guts</font> are all first rate metal tunes and the album as a whole is consistent enough to recommend to fans of heavy music. </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>Paul Sabu</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bangkok Rules</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/paulsabu-bangkokrules.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> Paul Sabu</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 46</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>30%</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">I think it's now time to admit that one time AOR “legend” <b>Paul Sabu</b> is more or less going to be better known for a double dose of half-baked performances at ZRock 2012 and delivering a range of croaky pseudo-metal albums than he will be for delivering one mega-AOR album in the form of <b>Only Child</b> some 25 years ago. His career started slowly and built up with a couple of compelling solo albums before <b>Only Child</b> placed him into the lofty position of cult-AOR royalty.<br /> He's had his hand in a dozen other classic albums as player or producer, but on the solo front, I sadly no longer rate his work. The new album is <font color="#00ffff">Bangkok Rules</font> – a record of pumping hard rock that thankfully dials back the metal of other recent releases, but fails to match any past melodic glory.<br /> First of all – Paul's voice is shot. If this is as good as he can sound in the studio, then it ain't going to get any better. The vocals are gruff, raspy and shouted at times.<br /> The songs – there's a lot going on here, but none of it is produced well enough to let the layers breath and at times I found myself struggling to break through the sonic onslaught to pick out the melodies – several going on at once at times.<br /> It's a messy, noisy record with songs that don't fulfill potential and vocals that struggle to add anything to the song, let alone control them. </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>Jakob Samuel</b> <font color="#ffffff">Past Present</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Jakob Samuel</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/jakobsamuel-pastpresent.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> Jakob Samuel</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 43</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> SE</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>55%</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">I love Jakob's voice. His tone is just that likeable range that's perfect for emotional melodic hard rock. Stepping outside his band <b>The Poodles</b> for this his debut solo album, Jakob uses the lack of rules and boundaries to deliver a true “solo” record.<br /> Nothing worse than a solo album that merely repeats the formula of the band the artist is stepping outside of. But you have to have the songs to back it up. Much like the <b>Joey Tempest</b> solo albums (a better example of how to do 'solo'), this record sees Jakob strip things back into a mellower vibe, experimenting with various styles and moods.<br /> It is quite the departure from <b>The Poodles</b>, so I wouldn't recommend it blindly for fans of that band. This is a very mature and diverse record with some brilliant adult pop in places (<font color="#ffff00">Stars And Grace; Carry On</font> – complete with horns) and a most haunting piano ballad <font color="#ffff00">If Tomorrow Never Comes</font>.<br /> And at times he reaches into adult contemporary/Westcoast territory with <font color="#ffff00">When I Close My Eyes, I Am What I Am</font> and 70s retro pop (<font color="#ffff00">Together, Vagabond Shoes</font>).<br /> The quality is undeniable, but the likability at times, is. As much as I like 3 or maybe 4 tunes here, the rest I struggle with simply due to their eclectic delivery or style, plus the fact that I am not finding the necessary hooks to draw me back in.<br /> A majority of tracks may be in a slow pop tempo, but that doesn't worry me. I'm simply not warming to the songs themselves, despite a few standing out as quite brilliant. </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>Jaded Heart</b> <font color="#ffffff">Comon Ground</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Fastball Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FB12C924 </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/jadedheart-commondestiny.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> Jaded Heart w/Claus Lausmann & 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> 56</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.jadedheart.de" target="new">Jaded Heart</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">There are those that stopped following German rockers <b>Jaded Heart</b> with the departure of singer <b>Michael Bormann</b>, there are others that started up with new singer <b>Johan Fahlberg</b>. And there are those that have appreciated both incarnations. Whatever camp fans might be in, the band post-Bormann are a different beast, metallizing their sound a little further with each release. <font color="#00ffff">Common Destiny</font> – now the band's fourth with Fahlberg – is the band's heaviest yet and perhaps the best since <font color="#00ffff">Helluva Time</font>, which was the band's first with the new singer.<br /> So the band carries on with their Eurocentric melodic metal mission. The biggest difference between <b>Jaded Heart</b> now and then is their commerciality. The Bormann years were far more commercial, while the band now will find it difficult to get airplay using this approach. But that's not a bad thing if crunching hard riffs are what you are looking for.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">With You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Saints Denied</font> give the album a big hard rocking start, mellowing only slightly for the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">Into Tears</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Believe</font> and the almost anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Life Is Beautiful</font> are the closest tracks the band gets to commercial here, with the tracks <font color="#ffff00">Run And Hide</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Are We Mental</font> quickly diving back into the hard riffing.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Higher</font> softens up for some acoustic guitar before turning to a hard rock chorus and <font color="#ffff00">Fire And Flames</font> closes the album with more tough talking hard rock, but a pretty catchy chorus to end on a high.<br /> The band's strongest release since Fahlberg joined the ranks. </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>Christian Tolle Project</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Higher They Climb</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Fastball Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FB12C926 </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-thehighertheyclimb.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 & 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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>83%</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">Guitarist/writer <b>Christian Tolle</b> has his third studio album released earlier this year. He has stepped up just about everything here, with a beefier, heavier sound, better production and some high profile guests taking the roles as vocalists. You have <b>David Reece, Paul Shortino</b> and <b>Michael Voss</b> all handling a few songs each. The style is hard rock with a sometimes bluesy edge, but an always-pumping rhythm.<br /> <b>Michael Voss</b> appears on each track with his lead or backing vocals and it's nice to hear <b>David Reece</b> singing anything. The album took a while to grow, but is pretty consistent and well produced for a smaller name artist.<br /> It may not stand out as obviously as some other releases, there hasn't been much PR behind this, but it is well worth checking out – especially if you are a fan of the vocalists involved. </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>Hydrogyn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Private Sessions</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Indie / Music Buy Mail</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/hydrogyn-privatesessions.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> Jeff Westlake</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US, EU</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.hydrogyn.com" target="new">Hydrogyn</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">On the strength of these songs and the energetic performances on this album, US female lead hard rockers <b>Hydrogyn</b> have every chance of leading the genre alongside better known artists such as <b>Halestorm</b>.<br /> Unfortunately they aren't going to get there until they lift some aspects of their recording/production style.<br /> I really do like this album and I've played it a lot. And I was contemplating it for MelodicRock Records. But the one thing holding it back is an awfully dark and muddy guitar sound that gives the album a somewhat hollow sound where the vocals and rhythm section don't fare as well in the mix. That said, singer Julie has come leaps and bounds as far as a charismatic frontwoman and her vocals here are easily the best of the <b>Hydrogyn</b> releases so far.<br /> And the song quality is also a big step forward – and as I stated – puts the band right up there with others in the field. Despite my questions over the guitar sound this is still a very compelling melodic metal/hard rock release with some killer songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Something To Say</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Forbidden Kind</font> deliver a one-two metal punch; with <font color="#ffff00">Scream</font> backing them up with a more melodic approach.<br /> The ultra-moody <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Know How</font> is a very commercial track as is the Kiss inspired hard rocker <font color="#ffff00">Heated Nights</font>.<br /> Elsewhere on the album, <font color="#ff0000">Don'tcha Walk Away</font> packs a punch; <font color="#ffff00">It Doesn't Matter</font> features a huge vocal and fine guitar playing while <font color="#ffff00">Roseline's Song</font> is easily the band's most heartfelt and emotional ballad to date. Some wonderful lead vocals here from Julie also.<br /> <br /> A strong set of songs and individual performances that doesn't quite hold up in the final mix. A clearer, cleaner mix would elevate these songs into the next level. But for fans of female fronted hard rock, there's still a lot on offer here.<br /> One more thing, they need to back off somewhat on using sexed up images of Julie as the main visual selling point of the band. It might just be getting to be a bit much. </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>Bangalore Choir</b> <font color="#ffffff">Metaphor</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/bangalorechoir-metaphor.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 Susemihl & David Reece</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>78%</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">Shame on me for being late with reviewing another fine release from <b>David Reece</b> and company. On <font color="#00ffff">Metaphor</font> David is joined again by <b>Andy Susemihl</b> and <b>Curtis Mitchell</b> (guitars) and <b>Danny Greenberg</b> (bass), with drums handled this time by <b>Rene Letters</b>.<br /> After several weeks I am still struggling to complete this review. I tried to review it a month ago too. The thing is – there is nothing wrong with the album whatsoever. It is a touch more melodic (or at least not as heavy) as <font color="#00ffff">Cadence</font> and is produced really well.<br /> I'm just struggling to get into any of the songs after the brilliant Reece/Kronlund release of last year.<br /> None of the songs here are demanding my attention after several plays and with so many other releases out there right now, this album has never been able to find itself in any kind of rotation with me. <font color="#ffff00">Don't Act Surprised</font> was featured on <b>MRCD7</b> and still stands out as a highlight and I like the swamp boogie of the unusual Never Face Ole Joe Alone.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fools Gold</font> is pretty good too. In fact the second half of the album is stronger than the first half and that's perhaps where the problem lies.<br /> The first half doesn't fire for me and I prefer the <font color="#00ffff">Cadence</font> and <b>Reece/Kronlund</b> records for my fix of the great <b>David Reece</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>Luley</b> <font color="#ffffff">Today's Tomorrow</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/luley-todaystomorrow.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> Klaus Luley</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 48</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">German singer/guitarist/multi-instrumentalist <b>Klaus Luley</b> is best known for his time in the hard rock act <b>Tokyo</b> and the better known cult fav's <b>Craaft</b>. Now after some 20 years he has teamed with producer/bassist <b>Michael Voss</b> (yes, him again!) to produce an album under his own name. I'm struggling to give comparisons here for those new to the Luley name. Sometimes you get to the point where you have heard so much music you know this is familiar, yet can't quite put a finger on why.<br /> Basically this is Voss-friendly European uptempo melodic rock. <font color="#ffff00">Mountain Of Love</font> definitely has that <b>Casanova/Michael Voss</b> production style and harmonies while the quite excellent melodic pomp rocker <font color="#ffff00">Slippin Away</font> reminds me of early <b>Fair Warning</b>.<br /> The ballad <font color="#ffff00">Livin' In The Night</font> reminds me of <b>Mikael Erlandsson/Last Autumn's Dream</b>. <font color="#ffff00">Tokyo</font> has a <b>Scorpions/</b>Rhythm Of Love vibe and a Voss style chorus.<br /> As you can see, it's all quite diverse, yet still very cohesive and consistent throughout.<br /> There's a couple of fillers towards the end of the album, but generally speaking this is a solid European style melodic rock record with a little of all of the above blended in. </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>AOR</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Colors Of LA</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Blvd Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ABR003 </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/aor-thecolorsofla.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> Frederik 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> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.aorblvdrecords.co.uk" target="new">AOR Blvd 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Frederik Slama</b> and <b>Tommy Denander</b> team up for yet another <b>AOR</b> album – AOR being the name of the project series, which spans some 10 albums now (one of which is a best of). Two things about these <b>AOR</b> projects – the name says it all – plus there are always plenty of high caliber special guests. This time those names include vocalists - <b>Joe Pasquale</b> (<font color="#ffff00">Jenny At Midnight</font> being a wonderful melodic song); <b>Jerry Hludzik</b> (another pure 80s keyboard AOR track with great vocals and chorus hook); <b>Steve Newman</b> (<font color="#ffff00">Kimberley</font> sounds remarkably like a great <b>Newman</b> track); <b>Joey Summer</b> (<font color="#ffff00">Under Your Spell</font> is heavy on keyboards); the always reliable <b>Philip Bardowell</b> (<font color="#ffff00">Brittany</font> is another super smooth Bardowell ballad).<br /> Phil also sings on another two tracks – the great <font color="#ffff00">You're My Obsession</font> and the punchy <font color="#ffff00">Just One Kiss On Your Heart</font>. <b>Rick Riso</b> features on a fine <b>Glenn Hughes</b> style AOR song (<font color="#ffff00">Halo Of Light</font>) and a jazzy Westcoast pop track too (<font color="#ffff00">Teach Me To Love You Again</font>).<br /> Musican guests include <b>Lukather, Landau, Thompson, Tolle, Goodrum, Foster</b> and <b>Friestedt</b>. Names so familiar on the AOR/Westcoast session circuit you don't even need their first names! Mainly they provide the album's guitar solos.<br /> I've been pretty hard on some of the past <b>AOR</b> releases due to inconsistent song and production quality and although there is a variance of styles here, the album is clearly very well constructed and leans more towards straight ahead AOR than Westcoast.<br /> And the production is perhaps the best to date also, making this album a very good prospect if you want traditional, great sounding AOR style music with strong vocal performances and catchy melodies. </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>Silence</b> <font color="#ffffff">City (Days) & City (Nights)</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/silence-citydays.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> Bruno Levesque</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.silenceprod.free.fr" target="new">Silence</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">French melodic rock outfit <b>Silence</b> is essentially the duet <b>Bruno Levesque</b> and <b>Ben Venet</b>. Such has been the distance between their last album and now that they had tracked 20 songs for a new album.<br /> The result has been released via <b>Perris Records</b> in the form of two separate 10 track albums <font color="#00ffff">City (Days)</font> and <font color="#00ffff">City (Nights)</font>.<br /> What isn't known and isn't a big deal, is that I was in fact going to sign the band to MelodicRock Records, but due to a number of delays on my part, the band decided to go with Perris and release the albums quicker. Absolutely no issue with that or the lads as these are great songs and I'm glad they found a home for them. I hope Perris has been able to push them as much as they deserve.<br /> What I would like to say is that I personally felt that 20 tracks was too many to unload on the public and had my own plan to condense that down to a single disc release of maybe 13-14 songs and make it a really knockout disc.<br /> I'm very proud of the guys for delivering what they have here. The quality of production, songwriting and the performances here are all well above that of the debut and some of these songs in particular and just terrific old-school moody European AOR tracks that I think could find a large audience.<br /> However, 10 tracks with a couple of fillers multiplied by two does, I think, take some impact away from some of the other tracks that really stood out to me as very special. The songs on both albums have no differentiating factors style wise – both have some beautiful songs in that moody, mellow AOR style that <b>Dare</b> and <b>Mark Spiro</b> have both perfected.<br /> The <font color="#00ffff">City Nights</font> album is perhaps a little more uptempo and features 2 or 3 slightly heavier tracks.<br /> For the record – these are the best tracks of both volumes that I call absolutely essential – <font color="#ffff00">Beggars Day, Crashing Down, Ghosts, Goodbye To The Old Days, Out Of The Dream, End Of The Day, Business, Memory Of Blue Eyes, Guardian Angel, Insomnia, Footprints, Drifting Away, Just One Kiss On Your Heart</font>.<br /> And yes, <font color="#ffff00">Just One Kiss On Your Heart</font> also appears on the just reviewed AOR album – that version featuring <b>Philip Bardowell</b> on vocals. Check these guys out. If you buy digitally, perhaps you can make your own 'perfect' AOR record. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/hardriot-livingonafastlane.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Hard Riot</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Living On A Fastlane</font> – Pitch Black Records</b> – German hard rock with a strong <b>AC/DC</b> riff based delivery that should please fans of the legendary outfit and others that appreciate the likes of <b>Shakra, Soul Doctor</b> and similar. Mid-to-higher pitch vocals and strong riffing is the order of the day with a generally fast moving pace and decent production too.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/christhompson-berlinlive.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Chris Thompson</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Berlin Live</font> – Gonzo Multimedia</b> – 2CDs and a DVD featuring the great <b>Chris Thompson</b> live in Germany in 2011. Great value package, but not great value set list. 20 tracks over the CDs and 11 tracks on the DVD from another show. But the songs…it's all a little too laid back I'm afraid. Even the bombastic rocker from the <b>Thompson/Slamer</b> release <font color="#ffff00">Wasting Time</font> is somewhat “cabaret'd” up here for a more mature audience. I'm sure it had more energy on the night, but here on CD I don't think it translates as well. Not even an 11 minute <font color="#ffff00">Blinded By The Night</font> can pick up the pace!<br /> And forgive me for saying so, but I think Chris' voice has seen better days. The now classic <font color="#ffff00">You're The Voice</font>, Chris does his best to reach those notes, but after heaving <b>John Farnham</b> belt it out flawlessly at 60, well….</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>55%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/lastautumnsdream-ninelives.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Last Autumn's Dream</font> – <font color="#00ffff">9 Lives</font> </b> – Another almost perfect Scandi AOR release from one of the most reliable bands still up and running in this scene. What makes it different from 8 other albums? Well, not much really, but sometimes that is the beauty. All you need to know is that the production is solid, the songs are up to the band's highest standards and that there are a few new <b>Mikael Erlandsson</b> sung classics to be found here. My only problem – the band's current label doesn't seem to be doing anything whatsoever to promote this. I didn't even get a press release or audio. I had to grab this album myself as was the case with the last album too. How is anyone else supposed to find the band?</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/bullettrainblast-nothingremains.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Bullet Train Blast</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Nothing Remains</font> – Target Records</b> – Danish hard rockers <b>Bullet Train Blast</b> may not be a household name, but they have a big sound and a ton of energy and attitude. The album is a hybrid sleaze/classic/modern rock release that crosses the line between old and new and features a raspy gravelly vocalist that sounds like he could have been conceived on Sunset Blvd back in 1990. A good high energy record, but one that must fit the taste of the buyer – sleaze inspired hard rock with a powerful modern edge.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/jayparmar-circleoffire.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Jay Parmar</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Circle Of Fire</font> – Favoured Nations</b> – Circle Of Fire is guitarist <b>Jay Palmer's</b> debut solo release. You might know his name from touring a little with <b>Eden's Curse</b> or a few tribute albums (most notably is one decicated to his hero <b>George Lynch</b>). Released digitally on <b>Steve Vai's</b> record label Favoured Nations and as an indie CD release, the album has an incredible collection of musicians playing and singing on it; <b>Carsten Lizard-Schulz, Andreas Novak, Pete Newdeck, Tim Wallace, Mike Rotella</b> and the guitar legend himself - <b>George Lynch</b>.<br /> Style wise we have an album that fits into guitar hero territory, with an obvious emphasis on guitars (riffs as well as solos), but Jay is not a one trick pony. The album has a lot of style and finesse and the guest vocalists provide some joy for melodic rock fans. The production may not quite be major label quality, but it is impressive enough for an independently funded release. 13 tracks at 66 minutes is good value, but perhaps a little long as far as keeping the attention of some listeners. But overall, a fine guitar based release with some strong vocal performances especially from <b>Pete Newdeck</b> and <b>Andreas Novak</b>.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/bite-rockintothenight.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">B.I.T.E</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Rock Into The Night</font> – Indie</b> – God, not another dot dot band…sadly yes, but let's not judge the band by their n.a.m.e alone. <b>B.I.T.E</b> (it really is such a pain in the ass typing out these names) are from Brazil and play a very standard brand of 80s commercial hard rock in the traditional style of <b>Bon Jovi</b> and the like. The guitar sound is a little hollow (typical of self-financed releases), but generally the production here is ok. And so are the songs actually. My only point is that we have heard it all before and there's nothing here that elevates the band above their competition, but if you have a penchant for South American hard rock – <font color="#00ffff">Rock Into The Night</font> is an ok album.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/tyrant-savethedevil-se.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Tyrant</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Save The Devil (Special Edition)</font> – Indie</b> – Nice to be able to review a Tasmanian metal band. Doesn't happen that often (the last time was for the original version of this release and before that, the band's off shoot). What vocalist and writer <b>Neil Wilson</b> has done here (on my advice I'm proud to add), is take the original indie release and get it remixed and mastered by someone that knows what they are doing. And this they have done. And what great extra life such minor adjustments bring to the album. This is about as old-school metal as it gets. You know…Judas Priest 1982, Iron Maiden 1983…<br /> Wilson might not be the post child for great vocalists, but the conviction in his delivery is undeniable and really brings these hard rocking songs alive. And on stage the guys are even better. But for this extended EP/short album (34 minutes), you get some fine riffing, attitude to match and some pretty catchy old school metal songs. Not to mention a metal version of Cliff Richard's <font color="#ffff00">Devil Woman</font>. Fun. Just make sure you are purchasing the “special edition”.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/kaisas-unify.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Kaisas</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Unify</font> – Casket</b> – I don't think vocalist <b>Tony Mills</b> would mind anyone leaving this one off his resume. The songs are simply devoid of life. They drag on and I'm just not hearing anything here that I'd ever want to come back to. I think this album is just plain boring and Tony's voice is mixed in a way that it just dominates the sound to the point of grating on my ears.<br /> Sometimes you just don't need a lot of words to sum up an album. And what's with <font color="#ffff00">Jingle Bells</font> getting rocked up mid-album? That's a true WTF moment there for you. Horrible.</font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>35%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br />  </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>Asia</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">Frontiers</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">FRCD560 </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/asia-xxx.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Asia</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> 2012</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">They finally did it! Since reuniting, it has only taken 2 previous <b>Asia</b> albums; 5 <b>Icon</b> albums (3 studio and 2 live), plus a solo album or four between them, but the Asia founding duo of <b>John Wetton</b> and <b>Geoff Downes</b> have finally created an uptempo album!<br /> And what a contrast from recent releases. This album just bursts through the speakers as the songs live and breathe on their own without the need for the occasional prod to the listener to wake them up.<br /> Even the ballads on <font color="#0000ff">XXX</font> have an uptempo flow and are enjoyable to sit through.<br /> And the production on <font color="#0000ff">XXX</font> is nice and spacious. It's not compacted down into a mesh of instrumentation – everyone gets a chance to be heard here – a sometimes forgotten ideal in this world of over-compressed music. Downes' keyboard and organ parts flow beautifully in and around the songs while <b>Steve Howe's</b> guitar solos seem to have more impact here than recent albums. Of course Asia is never going to be described as a hard rock band, so talk of this album being uptempo and “rocking” must be taken in context. It's all still relatively mellow compared to other artists reviewed here, but Asia fans can rejoice in an album that inspires movement, instead of curing insomnia.<br /> The songs remain long – 5 are over or near 6 minutes in length. But this time they don't have the appearance of dragging.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tomorrow The World</font> is a feisty opener for these guys; <font color="#ffff00">Bury Me In Willow</font> is a moodier piece with some inspired organ work and a more uptempo chorus; <font color="#ffff00">No Religion</font> harnesses more guitar and energy than I have heard since the band's debut; <font color="#ffff00">Faithful</font> is mellower, but still features an uptempo rhythm which I think makes the song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Know How You Feel</font> is another layered track which captures the best of the band's early sound once again; <font color="#ffff00">Face On The Bridge</font> is a brilliant and highly memorable song (despite the video!) while the 'lite progressive' of <font color="#ffff00">Al Gatto Nero</font> is both catch and challenging at the same time.<br /> Closing the album is the lyrically biting, yet musically 'up' of <font color="#ffff00">Judas</font> and the ultra-moody, and progressive <font color="#ffff00">Ghost Of A Chance</font>. Two more real quality 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"> Great stuff guys! <b>Asia</b> fans will be well content with this solid album of uptempo tunes that really does hark back to the classic Asia sound and style, while staying fresh. Highly recommended to all with either a die-hard obsession or just a any passing interest in the band. Their best in a long long 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> Asia<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alpha<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Astra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Then & Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Phoenix<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Omega<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> XXX</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>Steve Howe:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Carl Palmer:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Geoff 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>Asia</b> - Asia & Alpha</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> Tomorrow The World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bury Me In Willow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> No Religion <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Faithful<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Know How You Feel <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Face On The Bridge <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Al Gatto Nero<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Judas<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ghost Of A Chance <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>Wigelius</b> <font color="#ffffff">Reinventions</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/wigelius-reinventions.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <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">Terrible name for a band, but they are Swedish, so all is forgiven. Yes, this is another release under the 'Swedish Melodic Rock' banner. And more or less, it is another pleasant example of Scandi-AOR with punch.<br /> <b>Wigelius</b> uses the tried and true, much used formula that has delivered a whole host of albums over the last 4-5 years. For everything that is good about this album, there is still the overall feel that it feels all a little too contrived and fails to deliver anything that will help it stand out in a crowded market.<br /> That said, there are some songs here that are still a real joy to hear. <font color="#ffff00">Talking About Love</font> is a melodic gem as is the anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Next To Me</font> (so utterly familiar, yet it still sounds good); <font color="#ffff00">Too Young To Fall In Love</font> is another sweet harmonic chorus that sticks and <font color="#ffff00">Right Here, Right Now</font> also sounds like I have heard it before.<br /> The acoustic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Love Can Be Too Much</font> is perhaps the stand out track of the album as vocalist <b>Anders Wigelius</b> isn't buried under a ton of production and his voice really shines.<br /> Elsewhere the tracks are all enjoyable to a point, but a little safe at the same 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"> Everything about this album is nice. It's a pleasant listen with decent songs, but we have heard it all before and given that the production isn't as sharp as it should be and the fact that there are already several other better albums than this on the market – it isn't going to be an album that instantly puts the band on the map such as was the case with <b>HEAT, Wig Wam</b> and others. </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> Reinventions</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>Anders Wigelius:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jake Svensson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Erik Wigelius:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris "Wielbass" Pettersson:</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> </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> Angeline <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Talking About Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Do You Really Know<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Next To Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Cassandra<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Piece Of The Action<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Young To Fall In Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right Here, Right Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Can Be That Much <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On To Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> There Is No Me Without You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Reach Out<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>Million $ Reload</b> <font color="#ffffff">A Sinner's Saint</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/milliondollarreload-asinnerssaint.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Neal Calderwood</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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">This is a really good record in many ways. It features a big production, kick ass guitar attack and a thumping rhythm section. It harks back to the good old days of no bullshit rock n roll in the same vein as classic rockers <b>AC/DC</b> and more recent bearers of the flag such as <b>Shakra</b> and <b>Buckcherry</b>. There's a host of swagger filled guitar solos and big riff moments and there isn't a ballad in sight. The band has a strong dose of sleaze rock to fire up their engines too.<br /> Sounds perfect right? Well, yes…for a certain audience.<br /> The gruff raspy scream of vocalist <b>Phil Conlon</b> isn't the easiest on the ears and he doesn't vary his delivery up much. The band concentrates on riffs more than they do big hooks, but it's still an enjoyable ride.<br /> Take <font color="#ffff00">Blow Me Away</font> for example. The verse rocks along with a decent melody and approaches the chorus, the guitars give way for what could be a massive hook, yet there's nothing there but a simple one or two line chorus. That's where the band could have lifted this album from a solid, enjoyable affair to a stand-alone 2012 highlight.<br /> Best tracks include the more melodic <font color="#ffff00">Bullets In The Sky</font>; the almost-ballad <font color="#ffff00">Broken</font> and the chugging riffs of <font color="#ffff00">It Ain't Over</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 it is, there is nothing overly original or new to these Irish rockers, but for fans of <b>Quireboys, Motley Crue</b> and <b>Buckcherry</b> there's enough here to warrant investigation. A strong production and in your face guitar attack are the best things going for 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> Anthems Of A Degeneration<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Sinner's Saint</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 Conlon:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Mackle, Brian Mallon:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sean McKernan:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kie McMurray:</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>Riff driven 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> Fight The System<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullets In The Sky<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blow Me Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Tie Me Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Broken<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am The Rapture<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wicked<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Smoke N Mirrors<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Headrush<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Pretty People<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It Ain't Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Protest (Bonus Track)</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Prayer</b> <font color="#ffffff">Danger In The Dark</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">ESM241 </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/prayer-dangerinthedark.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Tapani Tikkanen and Mika Pohjola</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>65%</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">Finland's <b>Prayer</b> return after a 7 year absence. No offence to the guys, but a 7 year absence by a small time melodic rock band means you have been long forgotten except for a handful of close fans. If anyone can remember the band's debut <font color="#00ffff">Wrong Address</font>, you'll be doing well. Frontman, writer, co-producer and rhythm guitarist <b>Tapani Tikkanen</b> keeps busy outside of <b>Prayer</b>, but the band really has to start over.<br /> So <font color="#00ffff">Danger In The Dark</font> is the new album, which delivers a quirky mix of Scandi-AOR and keyboard driven progressive pomp. I rated the debut pretty highly and praised the strong vocals within. I'm not sure if this is a step backwards, or my tastes have changed, or perhaps in the intervening 7 years since the debut, standards have been raised exponentially – if so <b>Prayer</b> have failed to lift with them.<br /> <br /> [Time out – I'm going back to listen to <font color="#00ffff">Wrong Address</font> again…]<br /> <br /> Ok, I'm back. The band has gone backwards. This isn't nearly as strong as the debut with production quality not even close and whereas on the debut the vocals were quirky, here they are annoying. It was good to hear that album again and reminded me of why I rated it strongly. But here I'm just not feeling it. I think it is the strength of the songs mainly. The pivotal opening track doesn't have the punch that it should, nor the vocal power the debut had.<br /> The stop/start beat of <font color="#ffff00">Get What I Came For</font> is just painful to listen to and the closing track <font color="#ffff00">It's Not The End</font> is just terrible.<br /> In between is some pleasant ness, but nothing that stands out as essential or anything that will remain on any 2012 playlist 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"> I have tried, but I can't get into this album at all. The debut had much better songs, better production and a far better a mix. </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> Wrong Address<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger In The Dark</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>Tapani Tikkanen:</b> Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Percussion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jukka Ihme:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matti Torro:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mika Pohjola:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Valtteri Tikkanen:</b> Keyboards, Rhythm 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>Prayer</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> Danger In The Dark<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nobody Loves You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> KP<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get What I Came For<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Another Fool<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Let Your Dreams Die<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Wants You To Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Livin´ Ain´t Livin´<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It´s Not The End</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gun</b> <font color="#ffffff">Break The Silence</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">earMusic</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/gun-breakthesilence.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> Dave Eringa</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.gunofficial.co.uk" target="new">Gun</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="190"> <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">Welcome back to Scottish rockers <b>Gun</b>. It's been way too long, especially seeing that their last studio release <font color="#00ffff">0141 632 6326</font> (1997) was rubbish. Unfortunately the band's dynamic and authorative frontman <b>Mark Rankin</b> remains in seclusion, so lead vocal duties have been taken over by the band's own <b>Dante Gizzi</b>.<br /> Let's be very very clear. This album bears no resemblance to the <b>Gun</b> of old. Perhaps the danceable beats compare to 0141 in part, but this is an entirely new affair and will disappoint anyone looking for a repeat of the absolutely classic triple-play of <font color="#00ffff">Swagger, Gallus</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Taking On The World</font>.<br /> But that said – this is one example of a band that has set out to reinvent itself and by the results on this album, might just succeed.<br /> Once you abandon the idea of the Gun of old and adopt an an open mind – this album stands on its own rather well. There are some really fine songs within such as the moody <font color="#ffff00">Caught In The Middle</font>; the simple amazing pop brilliance of <font color="#ffff00">Break The Silence</font> and the catchy fuzz-pop-rock of <font color="#ffff00">14 Stations</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Lost & Found</font>.<br /> The moody <font color="#ffff00">How Many Roads</font> builds to a compelling climax and <font color="#ffff00">No Substitute</font> is as catchy as anything on modern radio today.<br /> The album is a different style yes….more contemporary pop/rock than old school melodic rock, but it does have that certain ingredient that draws you back in and I must say it is impeccably produced. </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>Slash</b> <font color="#ffffff">Apocalyptic Love</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Dik Hayd</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/slash-apocalypticlove.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> Slash</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 61 (Deluxe Ed)</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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/.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.slashonline.com" target="new">Slash</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="190"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">The problem with being late to a review on a big title like this is often that it has already been judged by fans and critics alike and everything that needs to be said has been said. But I can still add my 2 cents worth for those that like to compare notes.<br /> I think the overall reaction to this record has been very positive and I'm not about to upset the boat there. It is a very good album and a solid piece of work featuring some of <b>Slash's</b> best songs and guitar work since the GNR days. But there are a couple of elements that could have made it even better. I like the album a whole lot better than his last album as it doesn't try and be too trendy, nor does it swing through a stack of different styles and vocalists.<br /> Settling on <b>Myles Kennedy</b> as the single vocalist for the album was the smart thing to do. Still, Kennedy's vocals are an acquired taste and I can find him a little screechy at times.<br /> And I don't think <b>Slash</b> has the best ability of drawing the best chorus peaks out of his songs. <font color="#ffff00">Standing In The Sun</font> might be the one big exception as that chorus is awesome (as is the riffing). <font color="#ffff00">Shots Fired</font> (which closes the regular album is great also. I don't think this is an album I personally will be playing much, but I can't deny the quality of the production and guitar work on here.<br /> The deluxe version at 61 minutes is also about 10-15 minutes too long. </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>Valerie</b> <font color="#ffffff">Valerie</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Hellish Records</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">HR006 </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/valerie.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> Bard Torstensen</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.facebook.com/valerieband" target="new">Valerie</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="190"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">Everyone has a soft spot for the music being churned out of Sweden in recent years. Adding to that list is another newcomer – <b>Valerie</b>. The name comes from guitarist/lead vocalist <b>BT Valerie</b>. This album is 4 guys, 8 songs and that very tried and true 80s Scandi melodic hard rock sound. The only thing is…this album just isn't very good. There's only 8 songs, so no room for fillers and I'm afraid there are several.<br /> It always pains me to say that as I know how much effort goes into writing, recording and releasing any product. But BT's vocals just aren't that strong and the accent on them is distracting. The backing vocals stand out for all the wrong reasons too. The production isn't the best and the songs…well…not only have we heard all the cliché's before, but we've heard them all done better than on here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heat Of The Night</font> sees the band doing their best <b>Van Hagar</b> impersonation, but the vocals just don't match. <font color="#ffff00">Heat Of The Night</font> has a nice enough riff, but horrible lyrics.<br /> The commercial rocker <font color="#ffff00">When Two Hearts Collide</font> is the pick of the bunch. </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>Miles Of Will</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wild Ride EP</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/milesofwill-wildride.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> Miles Schon & Will Camplin</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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/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.milesschon.com" target="new">Miles Schon</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="190"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">You wouldn't expect anything but quality from the names <b>Champlin</b> and <b>Schon</b> right? Except this time around it is the offspring doing the work – Neal's son <b>Miles</b> (guitar and vocals) and Bill's son <b>Will</b> on keyboards and vocals. The duo also wrote the 5 tracks featured on this EP and produced it also. Being that this is an EP, any rules of what one should and shouldn't do are thrown out the window. No clearer is that made than with the jazzy pop of the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Haters</font>. Great intelligent lyrics and some mature arrangements beyond their years greet listeners. Not to mention some very fine vocals!<br /> The quirky guitar tone of <font color="#ffff00">Now You Are Alive</font> picks up the pace a little further. There's a certain blues influenced swagger to the tune and some really appealing vocals. <font color="#ffff00">Wild Ride</font> is perhaps the climax of the EP tempo wise and what a glorious song it is. This is a commercial, radio friendly modern rocker that builds to an engaging chorus that should be on radio. Now!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fangs</font> is a darker and heavier number, showing yet another side to the guys' sound, more biting lyrics and a terrific urgent vocal. <font color="#ffff00">Time & Place</font> is another commercial rocker with a moodier vibe and another hugely infectious chorus that deserves radio play.<br /> In a word – exceptional. The only thing I hate about EPs is that when they are as good as this, you want more. And soon please guys. This is a wonderful debut. </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>LA Guns</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hollywood Forever</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Cleopatra</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/laguns-hollywoodforever.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 Johns</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 55</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US</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.laguns.net" target="new">LA Guns</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="190"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">The “genuine” <b>LA Guns</b> as I refer to them – the line-up with vocalist <b>Phil Lewis</b> and drummer <b>Steve Riley</b> in the mix – is back with a new <b>Andy Johns</b> produced record <font color="#00ffff">Hollywood Forever</font>. Retaining the band's theme of all things slutty and glamtastic in the land of Hollyweird, the guys deliver a high energy album of busy rock n roll that mixes the sound of the debut album with that of <font color="#00ffff">Waking Dead & Tales From The Strip</font>, the last two records the guys recorded with Johns.<br /> There is also an additional emphasis on the punky delivery that was present in <font color="#00ffff">Vicious Circle</font>. The whole album has a rough and ready feel to it. The production is minimalistic without sounding cheap and the overall vibe of the album is pretty loose.<br /> Opposing the loose and trashy punk rockers are some heavier and darker numbers which is a great contrast in tempo and in mood for the album. A couple of moody ballads in typical <b>LA Guns</b> style round out the contents of this rather good and enjoyable LA Guns album.<br /> It may not be their best written or best sounding album, but the <b>Phil Lewis</b> fronted LA Guns remains a compelling and worthwhile investment for long time 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>Richard Marx</b> <font color="#ffffff">Inside My Head</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/richardmarx-insidemyhead.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Marx</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 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">He's good isn't he? <b>Richard Marx</b> is one of those guys that can just sing…and write one hell of a pop/rock tune. And while he's not in the limelight himself like he was in the late 80s, he is very much a part of everyday radio play having written a ton of pop & country hits for other artists spanning the last decade. In-between churning out those hits he records for himself and this album is a neat compilation of his best work from underrated solo releases <font color="#00ffff">Emotional Remains, Duo</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Stories to Tell</font>. And there really are some superb songs featured.<br /> Take the almighty ballad <font color="#ffff00">Through My Veins</font> (from <font color="#00ffff">Emotional Remains</font>). If there was ever a song that deserved worldwide hit status it's this haunting song with an exquisite vocal.<br /> Modern pop in the veins of the last <b>Brian Howe</b> album or <b>Rick Springfield's</b> <font color="#00ffff">Venus In Overdrive</font> is what Marx does best and there are no better examples than <font color="#ffff00">Always On Your Mind</font> (the one new track recorded for the <font color="#00ffff">Duo</font> album); the fast and furious power pop/rock of <font color="#ffff00">All Over Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Part Of Me</font>; plus <font color="#ffff00">Done To Me</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Over My Head</font>.<br /> Classy ballads like the aforementioned <font color="#ffff00">Through My Veins</font> are in abundance also, with <font color="#ffff00">Like Heaven</font> and the big new single <font color="#ffff00">Wouldn't Let Me Love You</font>.<br /> Other new tracks include the great opening mid-tempo melodic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Had Enough</font> (co-written by <b>Jason Wade</b> of <b>Lifehouse</b>) and the funky pop of <font color="#ffff00">Come Running</font>.<br /> And Chad Kroeger of Nickleback asserts his influence on the catchy modern rocker On The Inside (also featuring Chris Daughtry in the writing credits).<br /> As a bonus a second disc of re-recorded hits is included. It's a nice accompaniment to the newer songs and reminds us of the class writer that Marx has always been. I can't say there's a lot different about the re-records, but doing so places the publishing of the featured songs back in Marx's hands and control. </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 a high value double CD set from one of the genre's most acclaimed and talented songwriters. Buy, buy, buy, pop fans! Absolute quality. </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> Richard Marx<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Repeat Offender<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rush Street<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Paid Vacation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flesh and Bone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Days in Avalon<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Own Best Enemy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Duo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Emotional Remains<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sundown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stories to Tell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Inside My Head</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>Richard Marx</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rick Springfield</b> - Venus In Overdrive<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brian Howe</b> - Circus Bar</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> Had Enough <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wouldn't Let Me Love You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Like Heaven <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On The Inside<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through My Veins <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Always On Your Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Loved<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Come Running<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Over Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Scars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Done To Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Over My Head <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Part of Me <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>Jorn</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bring Heavy Rock To The 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">FRCD556 </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/jorn-bringheavyrocktotheland.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US/EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">Never far between album's, <b>Jorn's</b> latest is very much as expected once again. Yes, it's typical <b>Jorn</b> - the guitars sound the same, the drums sound the same, the approach is more or less the same as the last 2 or 3 or 4 albums and the production is again identical.<br /> So what sets this album apart from the preceding efforts? Well, not much really. He has most definitely caught the <b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> <i>“If It Ain't Broke, Don't Touch It”</i> school of thought, but do Jorn's fans have the same patience of those of ARPs?<br /> I'm still torn between getting frustrated at Jorn for not fulfilling his God given potential, or just appreciating what he does deliver.<br /> As it stands, this is one of his better solo efforts, but still falls short of his classic work in <b>Masterplan, The Ark</b> and <b>Millenium</b> (still my favourite). What's pleasing to hear on this album is a general lift in tempo. There are a couple more upbeat numbers here, reducing the number of plodders, which dominate Jorn's solo work. However, the sequencing of this album does not help his fans any.<br /> A softly sung vocal intro, followed by the heavy plodding title track, which would sound more impressive had the Dio-esque plod-metal tempo not already been done to death in previous albums. Then we are hit with a slightly more rocking 8 minute epic, plus a really quite uninteresting cover of <font color="#ffff00">Ride Like The Wind</font>, which for me was done well by <b>Saxon</b> a long time back and won't be topped.<br /> So for me it is track 5 when this album really gets rolling. And thankfully it rolls along in fine double-paced time with the awesome <font color="#ffff00">Chains Around You</font>.<br /> The metal ballad <font color="#ffff00">The World I See</font> is equally as good, even if we are back into go slow mode.<br /> Re-doing <font color="#ffff00">Time To Be King</font> (from the last <b>Masterplan</b> album) seems a little odd, but this fits into the album pretty well and rocks along at a good pace.<br /> The awesome hard rocking <font color="#ffff00">Ride To The Guns</font> follows and is an album highlight for me alongside <font color="#ffff00">Chains Around You</font>.<br /> And acoustic/electric melodic rock <font color="#ffff00">Black Morning</font> gives Jorn time to show he can still sing quality melodic rock.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Came To Rock</font> is another decent uptempo rocker that gives the album its needed balance.<br /> Bonus track <font color="#ffff00">Live And Let Fly</font> is a pumping uptempo melodic rock track that closes the album on a high and adds to that tempo push <b>Jorn</b> needed. </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 best of the last 3 solo albums, but its right here that Jorn needs to take stock and come up with something different for his next solo outing. Still, pretty much essential for fans of Jorn's. </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">World Changer</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-outtoeverynation.p3">Out To Every Nation</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-theduke.p3">The Duke</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-unlockingthepast.p3">Unlocking The Past</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-thegathering.p3">The Gathering</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jorn-lonelyarethebrave.p3">Lonely Are The Brave</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dio<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Spirit Black<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring Heavy Rock To The 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>Jorn Lande:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tore Moren, Jimmy Iversen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Willy Bendiksen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nic Angileri:</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</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> My Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring Heavy Rock To The Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Thousand Cuts<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride Like The Wind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Chains Around You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The World I See <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Time To Be King<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride To The Guns <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Morning <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Came To Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live And Let Fly (bonus track) <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>Circus Maximus</b> <font color="#ffffff">Nine</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">FRCD557 </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/circusmaximus-nine.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Mats Haugen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 57</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Progressive 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>92%</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">Noway's progressive rock act <b>Circus Maximus</b> have delivered two impressive albums to date, but it is this – their third album – where they really come of age. Nine is a deeply complex and compelling album, which is not an easy to grasp slice of instant gratification. It requires time, concentration and some intensive dissection of the songs on offer.<br /> Opening with a 10 minute epic and closing with two more epics, these songs surround some shorter, more direct tunes, but each one has its own place in the slow of the album and twists that need to be learnt. Vocalist <b>Michael Eriksen</b> is already a favourite of mine in this genre for his melodic approach and clear tone. And he shines better than ever here too.<br /> The rest of the band are equally impressive, with some of the best instrumentation outside of <b>Dream Theater</b> and a hard hitting approach that surrounds the listener with a wall of sound.<br /> And the production I must say is absolutely first rate – it is a dominating sound that benefits from a clear, crisp mix.<br /> The 10 minute <font color="#ffff00">Architect Of Fortune</font> really does fly by considering its length; Namaste is heavy and prime stuff for fans of <b>Dream Theater</b>; <font color="#ffff00">Game Of Life</font> has probably the most memorable hook of the album and <font color="#ffff00">Reach Within</font> is the most melodic tune of the album.<br /> The tempo switching within <font color="#ffff00">I Am</font> is awesome and I love the power of <font color="#ffff00">The One</font>.<br /> And as previously mentioned, the sweeping epic <font color="#ffff00">Last Goodbye</font> is a monster way to close this classy opus. </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"> Three albums and three reasons to appreciate this progressive hard rock/metal outfit. World class sound and production, challenging songs and first rate performances. Progressive fans need this stat. </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="circusmaximus-thefirstchapter.p3">The First Chapter</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Isolate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nine</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 Eriksen:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mats Haugen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Truls Haugen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Glen Cato Møllen:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lasse Finbråten:</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>Circus Maximus</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Prog Metal fans</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dream Theater</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> Forging <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Architect Of Fortune<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Namaste<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Game Of Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reach Within <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Am <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Used<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Burn After Reading<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Last Goodbye <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>Hartmann</b> <font color="#ffffff">Balance</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies 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/hartmann-balance.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Oliver Hartmann</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 54</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">German hard rock vocalist <b>Oliver Hartmann</b> bursts back onto the scene in a big way with a new label and his 4th solo album. His debut was a masterpiece of mood and angst that immediately established him as a solo star after many years fronting bands like <b>At Vance</b> and <b>Empty Tremor</b>.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Out In The Cold</font> was a genre defining release, so it was no real surprise when the follow up didn't quite match up and then the third album turned Hartmann in a more modern direction. But with <font color="#00ffff">Balance</font>, Oliver Hartmann delivers his second masterpiece – an album that is every bit as compelling as the debut, albeit with a more positive emotional slant.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Balance</font> finds Oliver in a more positive mind, yet he still manages to capture the listener into an emotional grip that carries you through the whole album. This is a seriously good set of songs that is equally split between upbeat melodic rock anthems and heartfelt slower tunes.<br /> The style is straight ahead European melodic rock, much akin to the debut and I think this is an album that simply begs for attention from all.<br /> The album opens with the foot stomping hand waving anthem <font color="#ffff00">All My Life</font> which is a joy to hear.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Like A River</font> is a moodier, darker but still upbeat rocker with a certain <b>Shinedown</b> feel to it, especially with Oliver's vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">You Are The One</font> is another great anthem, pumping the feel good adrenalin into your ears and <font color="#ffff00">Fool For You</font> is another solid rocker with a strong chorus.<br /> Elsewhere in the album there is the moody mid-tempo rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">After The Love Is Gone</font>; a slightly progressive rocker in <font color="#ffff00">Save Me</font>; the absolutely gorgeous <font color="#ffff00">From A Star</font> with a brilliant matching vocal; a heavy cover of the <b>Tears For Fears</b> hit <font color="#ffff00">Shout</font> and two amazing ballads to close the album – <font color="#ffff00">Time To Face The Truth</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Best Is Yet To Come</font>.<br /> Both have an emotional core that sucks you in and feature two great vocal performances along with great 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"> Take a bow <b>Olli Hartmann</b>. Terrific album from one fine vocalist. An emotional ride, but this time a more feel good journey, with some great anthems, a great production again and a few really amazing ballads. </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="oliverhartmann-outinthecold.p3">Out In The Cold</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="hartmann-home.p3">Home</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 3<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Balance</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>Oliver Hartmann:</b> Vocals, Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mario Reck:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dario Ciccioni:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Armin Donderer:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Juergen West:</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>Hartmann</b> - Out In The Cold</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 My Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Like A River <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Are The One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fool For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> After The Love Is Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fall From Grace<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> From A Star <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dance On The Wire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shout<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Time To Face The Truth <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Best Is Yet To Come <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>Europe</b> <font color="#ffffff">Bag Of Bones</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">earMusic</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-bagofbones.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 2012</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> 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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>Europe</b> have been very consistent with their output since reforming and while each album has contained a little filler, they have managed to cross that line from “80s rock nostalgia”, to a still relevant and credible contemporary classic rock act. On their latest <font color="#00ffff">Bag Of Bones</font>, the band further enhances that reputation by teaming up with the classic rock producer of the moment – <b>Kevin Shirley</b>.<br /> Shirley has been all over that bluesy 70s classic rock sound with <b>Black Country Communion, Joe Bonamassa, Black Crowes</b> and his work with <b>Led Zeppelin</b>. Now it's Europe's turn to dial back the clock. <font color="#00ffff">Bag Of Bones</font> is a great sounding record for fans of loose, live feeling 70s rock, with a ton of Hammond accompanying bluesy hard edged guitar and a certain swaggering attitude.<br /> It's a slight change of direction and just like the band's last few albums, it is another record that doesn't really play to the convention of playing up to catchy choruses.<br /> In many ways it is a very uncommercial record with a lot of music to get to know first before appreciating the songs.<br /> The driving <font color="#ffff00">Riches To Rags</font>; the slow but effective <font color="#ffff00">Not Supposed To Sing The Blues</font> or the <b>Glenn Hughes</b>-esque blues rocker <font color="#ffff00">Firebox</font> are all very credible songs.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bag Of Bones</font> is a killer song of two different styles and the slow and heavy grind of <font color="#ffff00">My Woman My Friend</font> really expand upon the band's musical history.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Doghouse</font> is another of the more catchy songs included and <font color="#ffff00">Mercy You Mercy Me</font> is one of the rarer times the album kicks into higher gear.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bring It All Home</font> is a classy blues rock ballad 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"> At times a little plodding and a little self-indulgent, the album still comes up a winner due to the attitude and 100% self-belief that this band portrays in itself and the songs on offer. Europe are a band that seem to have a lot of life left in them and continue to create fresh and challenging music for their 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> 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> <a href="europe-secretsociety.p3">Secret Society</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="europe-lastlookateden.p3">Last Look At Eden</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bag Of Bones</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>Black Country Communion</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Led Zeppelin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>70s 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> Riches To Rags <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not Suposed To Sing The Blues <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Firebox<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bag Of Bones <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Requiem<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Woman My Friend <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Demon Head<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Drink And A Smile<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Doghouse <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mercy You Mercy Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring It All Home <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>Polution</b> <font color="#ffffff">Beyond Control</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/polution-beyondcontrol.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 36</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">Amazing – a Swiss band that doesn't sound like <b>AC/DC</b>…no wait a moment…yes they do. That was close! They just do it in a more contemporary and modern rock influenced vein. <b>Polution</b> delivers this, their second album after the quite good debut <font color="#00ffff">Overheated</font>.<br /> The band picks up where they left off, updating their sound a little further and turning slightly punkish in places.<br /> Gruff lead vocals and punchy guitar riffs are the order of the day. It's not really my taste generally, but it is done quite well and there is no disputing that the album sounds sonically good and the guitars punch through the speakers.<br /> Third track in <font color="#ffff00">Live Until You Die</font> turns mellower and even more modern and could have a shot at modern rock radio if given the chance. A nice little anthemic chorus too.<br /> The same can be said about the ballad <font color="#ffff00">Flying</font>, although the verse is a lot tougher than the chorus.<br /> Truth be told – I'm not a fan of this guy's voice and that's probably the only downside to this album. It reminds me a little of Chad from <b>Nickelback</b> and I truly hate his voice (sorry Chad fans!).<br /> This is another short album – especially for 12 tracks, but they all clock in at 3 minutes or so and there are 2 'intro' pieces at under 1 minute. </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"> What I'm saying is that the album gets to the point pretty quickly and then moves onto the next song. It flows along at a decent pace which I think ads to whatever appeal it might have to certain listeners. </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> Overheated<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beyond Control</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>Pascal Gwerder:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcel Betschart, Matthias Betschart:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Armin Betschart:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Betschart:</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>Swiss 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> Rising Danger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live until you die <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever and a day<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Follow me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Prefix<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Band<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> War<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Flying <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> RIP<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bite me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All-in<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>Oxygen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Final Warning</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">ESM240 </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/oxygen-finalwarning.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Oxygen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">You won't believe this, but here is more 80s influenced Swedish melodic rock! Yes, the country whose melodic rock well never runs dry delivers up yet another new band, this time in the form of <b>Oxygen</b>, a Scandi rock group that delivers powerful, commercial, feel good 80s style AOR.<br /> Already released in Japan under the <b>'Niva'</b> name and titled <font color="#00ffff">'Gold From The Future'</font>, it's really the second Niva album (the first being from 1995). Not sure why the change of name for Europe.<br /> The guys have a good production behind them here and I'm trying to work out just who they sound like. The strong guitar sound mixed with a high octave vocal reminds me of the last <b>Departure</b> album.<br /> It also has a good dose of <b>Grand Illusion</b> about the vocals and some of the more pomp moments like <font color="#ffff00">Gold From The Future</font>.<br /> All in all, this is a very consistent and pleasant melodic rock album with a strong vocal performance from <b>Tony Niva</b> and some songs that are extremely easy to listen to. <font color="#ffff00">Janitor Of Love</font> is just a bit silly, but catchy as an opener is supposed to be; but <font color="#ffff00">Anything For You</font> and <font color="#ffff00">When Tomorrow Comes</font> are definite highlights.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Remember</font> is a sweet ballad as is <font color="#ffff00">Best Days Of Our Lives</font>. The title track <font color="#ffff00">Final Warning</font> is a bid more challenging - a progressive chorus switcing to a melodic chorus.<br /> The album closes with the upbeat and uptempo pomp rocker <font color="#ffff00">You</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 album definitely lacks any major wow moments, but it is pleasant enough and could be classed as a "nice", traditional, straight ahead melodic rock 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> Final Warning</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 Niva:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roger Ljunggren:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Bengan Andersson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>?:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marcus Persson:</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 80s Melodic Rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Niva</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> Janitor Of Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anything For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When Tomorrow Never Comes <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Remember <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gold From The Future<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We Must Fight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Wanna Know For Sure<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Final Warning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bring Back The Joy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Best Days Of Our Lives <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lita Ford</b> <font color="#ffffff">Living Like A Runaway</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/litaford-livinglikearunaway.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Bobby Collin, Lita Ford & Gary Hoey</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> 2012</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> 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.litaford.com" target="new">Lita Ford</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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>Lita Ford</b> has a monumental task of overcoming one of the worst records in recent memory in her last album <font color="#00ffff">Wicked Wonderland</font>. It was obvious to all at the time that the album was glory ride for then husband <b>Jim Gillette</b>. Thankfully Lita realized this and threw him out along with most of the out of character influences of that hideous record.<br /> She's now back on track with the very enjoyable <font color="#00ffff">Living Like A Runaway</font>. It's a far more enjoyable record with some tough contemporary rockers mixed in around a few more classic melodic rock songs that she was best at delivering in her early career.<br /> It may not be her best album, but it certainly excises the demons of Wonky Wonderland.<br /> Backed by a band that includes the awesome guitarist/songwriter/producer <b>Gary Hoey</b>, the album mixes old and new alike with some very personal and insightful lyrics.<br /> The opening salvo of the heavy and contemporary rockers <font color="#ffff00">Branded</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Hate</font> show that Lita can still deliver hard rock with attitude. Same with <font color="#ffff00">Devil In My Head</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Asylum</font>.<br /> Other highlights include the wonderfully melodic and beautifully sung <font color="#ffff00">Living Like A Runaway</font>; the dramatic acoustic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Mother</font> and the feel good rock anthem <font color="#ffff00">Love 2 Hate U</font>. I'd like to have heard more like these 3 tracks especially.<br /> However, there are still some lingering hangovers from WW – namely the quite modern and effects filed <font color="#ffff00">The Mask</font> and the modern groove rocker <font color="#ffff00">Relentless</font>. And the 10 track regular version of the album closes with the utterly shiteous ultra-programmed <font color="#ffff00">A Song To Slit Your Wrists By</font>. But the good far outweighs the bad here.<br /> There's 3 more tracks floating around as bonus tracks, but I have not been serviced with those and can't comment. </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 winner for Lita personally and a definite positive for long time fans of the guitar/vocal legend. <b>Gary Hoey's</b> involvement is a real plus, both for fans of his and the fact that he brought the best out in Lita. </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> Out For Blood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancin' on the Edge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lita<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stiletto<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dangerous Curves<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wicked Wonderland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living Like A Runaway</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>Lita Ford:</b> Vocals, Guitar and Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hoey:</b> Guitars, Bass, Keyboards and Background Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Matt Scurfield:</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>Lita Ford</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Gary Hoey</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 (Regular Editon)</font></font></div> </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"><strong><big>·</big></strong> Branded <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hate <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Mask<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living Like A Runaway <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Relentless<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mother <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil In My Head<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Asylum <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love 2 Hate U <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Song To Slit Your Wrists By<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>Axxis</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rediscovered</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Phonotraxx</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/axxis-rediscovered.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> Axxis</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> Too Long</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.axxis.de" target="new">Axxis</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="#06bcf9" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>5%</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">German rockers <b>Axxis</b> must have a fanbase, as they are still around after 20 or so years. But you seldom hear them discussed in any detail. Sadly they might now be discussed more than ever for all the wrong reasons.<br /> Once again a band has taken time out of writing new material to delve into the murky waters of recording covers. And once again a band has found itself delving into some truly horrendous choices for songs to include.<br /> This album is another real WTF moment. I mean covers of <b>Boney M, Celine Dion</b> and <b>Opus</b>. Opus????<br /> The guys narrowly get away with a fairly straightforward cover of the <b>Yes</b> classic <font color="#ffff00">Owner Of A Lonely Heart</font>, but <b>Boney M</b> is just horrifying. Boney Bloody M! Hideous.<br /> And when they take on <b>The Bee Gees</b> and the predictable <font color="#ffff00">Staying Alive</font>, well…they do it seriously! Can you believe that?! Sorry guys, go check out <b>Dweezil Zappa & Donny Osmond's</b> cover – now that's how you do the Bee Gees.<br /> Their <b>Kraftwork</b> cover it just plain shit. <b>Billy Idol's</b> growling hit <font color="#ffff00">White Wedding</font> has zero menace and on the <b>Phil Collins</b> cover it sounds like the singer has his balls in a vice.<br /> I could go on, but I won't. Well I will, but only so far as to mention <font color="#ffff00">My Heart Will Go On</font>, which it possibly won't after hearing the cover of <b>Celine Dion's</b> monster tear jerker. The only thing being jerked in this case is the patience of this band's fanbase. The vocals here are absolutely ghastly.<br /> The album closes with a <b>Kiss</b> cover of <font color="#ffff00">I Was Made For Loving You</font> that the <b>Village People</b> couldn't have done in a more feminine way. Awful.<br /> <br /> Sack management. Fire the label. It's the only way out for Axxis. I can't imagine one single fan being impressed by this load of old cobblers. </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>Dee Snider</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dee Does Broadway</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Razor & Tie</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/deesnider-deedoesbroadway.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> Dee Snider</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> 2012</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> </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.deesnider.com" target="new">Dee Snider</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>45%</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">Arrggh… How am I supposed to deal with this? Well, Dee has credit up his sleeve for a career high on integrity and class. And a whole lot of charm. And he's actually appeared on Broadway. So he gets a little leeway here. But not too much.<br /> To be honest, it's done pretty well. But who in their right mind is going to be playing this? I mean more than once. My guess is not too many.<br /> But it's a bit of a laugh and might be good at parties (after the guests are drunk though please).<br /> Some of the numbers are done with a straight face (no mean feat) and some ham it up a little. All of them are backed with traditional Broadway instrumentation such as horns and brass, but accompanied by a kick ass rock band too.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Cabaret</font> is pretty hard to swallow; but <font color="#ffff00">The Ballad of Sweeney Todd</font> is almost metal and a bit of fun; <font color="#ffff00">Big Spender</font> features <b>Cyndi Lauper</b> and is horrendous; the full on jazz of <font color="#ffff00">Mack The Knife</font> is almost as bad as the original. Dee sure ain't Louis Armstrong.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Music of the Night</font> [From Phantom of the Opera] featuring famed violinist <b>Mark Wood</b> is probably my pick of this outing and features a truly big vocal from Dee. Impressive.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Luck Be a Lady Tonight</font> [From Guys and Dolls] feat. <b>Clay Aiken</b> is a sure fire party hit and is heavier than I ever expected it could be done. Impressive Clay Aiken vocal too. Man, am I really typing this up?<br /> Ok, enough is enough…<br /> Die-hards only folks…and drunk people at parties with access to iTunes.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Gotthard</b> <font color="#ffffff">Firebirth</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-firebirth.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 60</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> June 1</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="#ff8000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>82%</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">I think those that know this site and know my reviews are aware that I don't normally dwell on issues such as line-up changes and new singers in well-known bands too much. There have been some truly strange decisions made over the years, but some equally good ones. The absolute bottom line however, is the resultant output. Are the songs what they should be and has the band delivered its best?<br /> Under very trying circumstances that no one would wish upon any band, Swiss legends <b>Gotthard</b> had to do the unthinkable upon the untimely death of frontman <b>Steve Lee</b> and had to replace a vital part of the band's sound, energy and writing style.<br /> The band took their time and found a Swiss born/Australian raised singer to fill the might big shoes of Mr. Lee.<br /> Enter <b>Nic Maeder</b>. And the result is in. Firebirth is an apt title and the album is definitely still very much <b>Gotthard</b>, as Maeder has a wonderful <b>Steve Lee</b> like vocal style and delivery, but the songs are a little hit and miss.<br /> The problem for the band is they not only have to replace an iconic frontman, but they are also on a roll with three great albums in a row – <font color="#00ffff">Lipservice, Domino Effect</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Need To Believe</font>. How can they top those and create a new path forward at the same time?<br /> The band decided to opt for a rougher, less polished live sound for their new album. It is indeed that. But after 3 super slick albums, it might sound a little too rough for some and it's true that the production isn't very slick at all. But my main issue with the album is the lack of big hooks and memorable choruses.<br /> There are some great songs within the album, but it is nowhere as consistent at the last 3 albums have been. Couple that with a pretty raw sound and I'm less impressed than I hoped to have been.<br /> <br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Starlight</font> – I like the heaviness of it and the riff and Maeder sounds great. The chorus may not reach expected heights, but it's a solid opener.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Give Me Real</font> – I like the heavy groove of this song a lot. One of the album's best tracks and a decent chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Remember It's Me</font> – absolutely terrific ballad with more polish than the rest of the album and I don't think anyone disputes it is a winner.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fight</font> – back to the heavy and groovy, but the song doesn't really go anywhere. Nice guitar solo, but slow, boring chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Yippie Aye Yay</font> – Kind of a bizarre title/lyric and chorus for this little sing along commercial rocker. Not bad and still pretty catchy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tell Me</font> – Beautiful acoustic/piano ballad with a terrific vocal and added orchestration.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shine</font> – Mid tempo melodic rocker with a pretty solid chorus and hook.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Story Is Over</font> – Back to a heavier old school Gotthard sound with Maeder doing a big Steve Lee vocal. Not a huge chorus, but decent and another good song. Strongest point of the album is the last 4 tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Right On</font> – Bon Jovi style hard rocker that is ok. It doesn't really have the anthemic qualities it should have had.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">S.O.S.</font> – Not really into this track much. It's a punchy hard rocker, but not into the chorus despite a reasonable moody verse.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Take It All Back</font> – A mid-tempo rocker that doesn't really go anywhere, with a chorus that doesn't stand out.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Can</font> – fast and furious rocker but again, another chorus that doesn't work, making the last part of this album sound like the band has recorded just that couple too many tracks.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Where Are You</font> – acoustic ballad about the late and great Steve Lee. A nice track and the sentiment is unquestionable. But not the best ballad I've heard from the band.</font><br />   <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"> Despite some misgivings with the album itself, I still believe the band has found a frontman that can take them into the future. But I do hope the songwriting qualities can be lifted further. They are missing some big chorus hooks and the anthemic qualities fans came to love.<br /> I like the groove and heavier feel of the album and through the first two thirds of the album, there is only a couple of weaker tracks. But it comes undone after track 8 and limps to the finish. </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><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="gotthard-dominoeffect.p3">Domino Effect</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="gotthard-needtobelieve.p3">Need To Believe</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Firebirth</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>Nic Maeder:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Leo Leoni, Freddy Scherer:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hena Habegger:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Marc Lynn:</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>Gotthard</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Maeder</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> Starlight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give Me Real <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Remember It's Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Yippie Aye Yay<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tell Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Story Is Over <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Right On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> S.O.S.<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take It All Back<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Can<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Are 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Hardline</b> <font color="#ffffff">Danger Zone</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">FRCD552 </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/hardline-dangerzone.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Alessandro Del Vecchio</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 58</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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>Hardline</b> has only 4 albums over 20 years to their name, but the voice of <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> is something I always look forward to hearing. Sure, we can hear him on the <b>Axel Rudi Pell</b> albums, but it's on the Hardline albums that Johnny really sounds in his element. On the new album <font color="#00ffff">Danger Zone</font>, Johnny sounds as good as I have ever heard him. This is a phenomenal vocal performance and I rate this album the second best (after the classic debut) to carry to Hardline moniker.<br /> Despite the <font color="#00ffff">II</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Leaving The End Open</font> albums receiving mixed responses from fans, I still appreciate both records. II was a little hit and miss, true; but <font color="#00ffff">Leaving The End Open</font> was a really solid record even if it took the sound in a more contemporary direction.<br /> For fans of the debut, <font color="#00ffff">Danger Zone</font> takes things back to basics. So much so that it is infact an entirely new band behind the album – headed by<b> Eden's Curse</b> alumni <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio</b> (also of Edge Of Forever and Shining Line fame) on keyboards and writing duties and <b>Thorsten Koehne</b> on guitars.<br /> I'm not going to make an issue of the change in line up at all. If you look at all 4 albums, there is only one common thread through them all – that is the voice of <b>Johnny Gioeli</b>. He is Hardline and this is the band's most melodic/AOR album to date.<br /> Sure, the sound is more European AOR than the American melodic hard rock of the debut, but the songs shine and Johnny's vocal performance seals it.<br /> It's a pretty long album at nearly an hour, but of the 12 tracks, there is only a couple that don't work for me. The rest are terrific and there are a couple of absolute blinders in here.<br /> The opening anthemic salvo of <font color="#ffff00">Fever Dreams</font> and <font color="#ffff00">10,000 Reasons</font> set up the album and make a big statement. Classic melodic rock is the name of the game.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">10,000 Reasons</font> might just be one of the best Gioeli sung songs ever. Massive!<br /> The 6 minute long <font color="#ffff00">Danger Zone</font> is a tougher slice of melodic rock; while <font color="#ffff00">Here's What I Want</font> is a rare track where I don't like the chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stronger Than Me</font> is a strong mid-tempo ballad with a terrific vocal.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Never Too Late For Love</font> (covered previously by <b>Phil Bardowell</b> and <b>Mark Free</b>) is a track I could also do without – only because I'd prefer an all-original in its place.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Don't Want To Breakaway</font> is a little left of center also – not a favourite.<br /> But the rest of the second half of the album is wall to wall classic melodic rock. <font color="#ffff00">Stay, Please Have Faith In Me, Show Me Your Love</font> and <font color="#ffff00">The Only One</font> – all great songs.</font><br />   <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"> Great job folks. To Ale in particular for bringing the best out in <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> and returning the <b>Hardline</b> name back to the style it is best known for. Solid production, great songs and performances here and all with Johnny singing his heart out. </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> Double Eclipse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="hardline-2.p3">II</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="hardline-leavingtheendopen.p3">Leaving The End Open</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger Zone</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>Thorsten Koehne:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Francesco Jovino:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Anna Portalupi:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alessandro Del Vecchio:</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>Hardline</b> - Double Eclipse<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shining Line</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Edge Of Forever</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> Fever Dreams <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 10,000 Reasons <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Danger Zone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What I'd Like<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stronger Than Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Too Late For Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Don't Want To Breakaway<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look At You Now<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Please Have Faith In Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Show Me Your Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Only One<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>Great White</b> <font color="#ffffff">Elation</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">FRCD553 </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/greatwhite-elation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Lardie</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 61</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 18</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> 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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>50%</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">It doesn't add up. I have every <b>Great White</b> album and still have a soft spot for the band, despite feeling the momentum of the band was slipping after the last two relatively laid back releases. I much prefer the band when they have an edge; even their older ballads had that edge. And I have all of <b>Terry Ilous'</b> work also. <b>XYZ</b> and solo, I love his voice.<br /> But together, I'm not feeling it. I don't think the manner in which Terry is singing on this album suits him and the band's slide into middle of the road oblivion continues with their third album in a row of really laid back bluesy rock, rather than rock with a blues edge.<br /> After 20 years of rocking with attitude, the band has fundamentally changed course and now sounds stale and boring to these ears.<br /> Even on the best tracks – the medium tempo rockers <font color="#ffff00">Feelin' So Much Better, Shotgun Willie</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Heart Of A Man</font> the magic ingredient is missing.<br /> On <font color="#ffff00">Resolution</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Lowdown</font>, the plodding is so deliberate and painful; it feels as if the songs are 10 minutes long. And there is the problem across the whole album. Of 12 tracks, only 5 are in the 4 minute range, the rest are 5 and over. The songs (and the album as a whole) are simply too long.<br /> On the slower tracks, <font color="#ffff00">Hard To Say Goodbye</font> has a heartfelt vocal and feel as does <font color="#ffff00">Promise Land</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Love Is Enough</font>. But the tempo of the album is already under such duress, these slower tracks can't shine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love Train</font> is near impossible to get 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"> Sadly I just can't appreciate this album in any meaningful way and I doubt it will ever get played again. Yes, the former voice of Great White <b>Jack Russell</b> might just be an indispensable ingredient, but the failure of this album is not <b>Terry Ilous'</b> fault. Jack fronting these songs wouldn't have made much of a difference. It's simply too laid back and lacking any real energy or attitude. </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> Great White<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shot In The Dark<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Once Bitten<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Twice Shy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hooked<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Psycho City<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stage<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sail Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let It Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="greatwhite-greatzeppelin.html">Great Zeppellin</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="greatwhite-cantgettherefromhere.html">You Can't Get There From Here</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Back To The Rhythm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="greatwhite-rising.p3">Rising</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Elation</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 Ilous:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark Kendall:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Audie Desbrow:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sean McNabb:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Lardie:</b> Guitars, 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>Great White</b> - Rising</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've Got) Something For You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Feelin' So Much Better <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Train<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heart Of A Man <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hard To Say Goodbye<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Resolution<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shotgun Willie's <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Promise Land<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lowdown (Bonus Track)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Just For Tonight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Is Enough<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Complicated<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>Wig Wam</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wall Street</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Frontiers 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/wigwam-wallstreet.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> 40</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> May 18</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>80%</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>Wig Wam</b> kicked off their career with two magnificent albums that are now classics of the genre. Their third album <font color="#00ffff">Non Stop Rock N Roll</font> saw them tinkering with the formula a little and the result was a less consistent album than previously delivered.<br /> Now on <font color="#00ffff">Wall Street</font>, it seems the band are trying too hard to be clever or that little bit different, that they seem to have lost the plot and the very sound they caused such an impact with.<br /> There are still a few signs that the guys can deliver classic anthemic melodic rock with a Scandinavian glam twist, but elsewhere I have to wonder what they are trying to achieve.<br /> I was still blown away by some of these tunes though.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wall Street</font> and <font color="#ffff00">OMG! (Wish I Had A Gun)</font> are classic Wig Wam in all their glory. And <font color="#ffff00">The Bigger The Better</font> is Wig Wam meets <font color="#00ffff">Slang</font> era <b>Def Leppard</b> for another fun uptempo track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Victory Is Sweet</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Bleeding Daylight</font> are both darker and less anthemic, but work around the other tracks well…with the footnote that they aren't as strong as previous ballads.<br /> Then things just get a little confused. <font color="#ffff00">Tides Will Turn</font> is a Queen-esque falsetto ballad that doesn't work for me; <font color="#ffff00">Wrong Can Feel So Right</font> is a perfect high energy AOR anthem; <font color="#ffff00">One Million Enemies</font> is an effects/programming filled rocker that falls flat and <font color="#ffff00">Try My Body On</font> is a groove orientated rocker that's pretty heavy, but also filled with acoustic guitars. I've tried, but I just don't like it.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Natural High</font> is a feel good (if not odd) little rocker, but the chorus is a killer.<br /> And closing the album is a moody guitar instrumental <font color="#ffff00">Things Money Can't Buy</font>. I don't buy Wig Wam albums for instrumentals. Sorry guys.<br /> As far as sequencing, the album just feels up and down and all over the place.<br /> I can really appreciate <font color="#ffff00">Wall Street, OMG, Natural High, Bigger The Better</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Wrong Can Feel So Right</font>. But the rest is take it or leave it, depending on my mood and that's not the Wig Wam I love.</font><br />   <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"> On <font color="#00ffff">Wall Street</font> I think the band have further strayed from what made them great in the first place. As they have diversified, they have lost that sense of good fun anthemic songs the first two albums were filled with. This is a very diverse record and it's the experimentation that doesn't work 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> Hard To Be A Rock N Roller<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wigwamania<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Non Stop Rock N Roll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wall Street</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> - Non Stop Rock n Roll</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> Wall Street <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> OMG! (Wish I Had A Gun) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Victory Is Sweet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Bigger The Better <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bleeding Daylight<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tides Will Turn<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wrong Can Feel So Right <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Million Enemies<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Try My Body On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Natural High <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Things Money Can't Buy<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>Shinedown</b> <font color="#ffffff">Amaryllis</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Atlantic 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/shinedown-amaryllis.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Rob Cavallo</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 44</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.shinedown.com" target="new">Shinedown</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>99%</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>Shinedown</b> have quickly become the modern rock band for me. They have everything I love about music – passion, drama, energy in spades and melodies big enough to hang your hat on. And best of all – they are unique. So many modern hard rock/metal bands out there have the same droll tone, but <b>Shinedown</b>, with their enigmatic frontman <b>Brent Smith</b> just ooze attitude and soul. And they are heavy!<br /> Everyone called their <font color="#00ffff">Sound Of Madness</font> album a genre defining masterpiece and I agreed. I still love it and the attitude within hasn't been matched until now.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Sound Of Madness</font> was seemingly unbeatable. And the band themselves said they wouldn't make another record until that one could be topped – Smith suggesting it could be years away. Well, its 4 since <font color="#00ffff">Sound Of Madness</font>, but if you take out the extensive touring time, it hasn't felt like a long wait. So when news of this new album being underway came through, I was skeptical.<br /> But man, these guys are on such a roll. This another absolute masterpiece as far as I'm concerned and after weeks and weeks of seriously heavy rotation, I'm satisfied to call this album even better than <font color="#00ffff">The Sound Of Madness</font>. In my eyes at least.<br /> The same energy, attitude and passion is there and the album contains the same super heavy intensity and hard rocking feel as the last album, yet at the same time I feel it is a slightly more mature and more polished performance.<br /> That's certainly the case for Smith, who sings with less of a rasp than on Sound Of Madness, delivering some truly magic vocal performances that are even more melodic than ever. It's as if he sings within himself this time and for me it really works!<br /> <br /> I have to say that the production on this album is simply monstrous and the use of a full symphony orchestra on 5 tracks gives the album a major lift and those tracks are so lush in the instrumentation, I simply get lost in those songs. I even love the somewhat debated self of center first single <font color="#ffff00">Bully</font>.<br /> But for me the best tracks come mid-late album, even though there isn't one tune on here that I could call filler. Each track is a winner, but some I still anticipate more than others.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Adrenaline</font> is a monster opener once again; <font color="#ffff00">Amaryllis</font> is the first to employ symphonic backing and is catchy as hell.<br /> But it's <font color="#ffff00">Unity</font> that truly blows things apart in the biggest way possible. Heartfelt, emotional, powerful, symphonic and a simply gorgeous over the top bridge to chorus set up.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Enemies</font> answers the beauty of the last song with a more aggressive edge and lifts them tempo into a frenzy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's Not Alright</font> is another symphonic masterpiece and carries the pace of the last song, but with more melody.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere Kids</font> keeps the album on that absolutely manic pace until the brilliant hard rock ballad <font color="#ffff00">Miracle</font> pulls things back a little.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'll Follow You</font> is another glorious ballad with big harmonies and big hooks and a melancholy feel that drags you in.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">For My Sake</font> rocks with aggression once more before <font color="#ffff00">My Name</font> cranks the album back into super overdrive.<br /> Closing the album is another absolutely killer ballad in <font color="#ffff00">Through The Ghost</font>. Another absolute captivating track with an amazing vocal and some intense orchestration.</font><br />   <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"> Stunning. One of the best heavy records in my time reviewing and another absolute classic from <b>Shinedown</b> to follow the already acclaimed <font color="#00ffff">The Sound Of Madness</font>. What will come next and do we really have to wait until 2016 to get it? Recommended for all fans of melodic but powerful music and an ear for the modern era, with all the melody you'd expect from classic 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> Leave A Whisper<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Us And Them<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="shinedown-thesoundofmadness.p3">The Sound Of Madness</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Amaryllis</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>Brent Smith:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Nick Perri, Zach Myers:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Barry Kerch:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Bass:</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>Shinedown</b> - The Sound Of Madness</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> Adrenaline <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bully<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Amaryllis <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unity <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Enemies <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'm Not Alright <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nowhere Kids<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Miracle <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Follow You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For My Sake <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Name (Wearing Me Out)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through The Ghost <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>Halestorm</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Strange Case Of</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Atlantic 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/halestorm-strangecaseof.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Howard Benson</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.halestorm.com" target="new">Halestorm</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>98%</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">Four albums have really stood out for me this year – <b>HEAT, Van Halen, Shinedown</b> and this little gem! <b>Halestorm</b> literally storm back into action with their second studio release, which takes everything that was glorious about their debut and cranks it up at least 3 notches. However they will follow this up I have no idea. But this is killer melodic rock/hard rock/melodic metal, all three styles neatly packaged into this blindingly great album. I've had this in constant rotation along with label mates <b>Shinedown</b> for weeks now and it shows no signs of tiring at all.<br /> <b>Halestorn</b> is fronted by the wonderfully charismatic <b>Lzzy Hale</b>, who has the voice of an angel and can scream like the devil…in some cases, using both to great effect within the same song.<br /> To quote my Shinedown review – this album has everything I love about hard rock in it – power, passion, attitude and melody.<br /> And the connection to Shinedown goes deeper, with the band touring with them and also occasionally sharing song co-writers.<br /> The album sounds absolutely stunning thanks to Mr. <b>Howard Benson</b>, a producer I often fail to appreciate due to what can be some pretty bland production efforts from him over the years. But here, everything sounds perfect and credit must go to the studio and mix engineers.<br /> The album sounds like it has all the energy of a live band, yet the polished finesse a studio record should have.<br /> And I love what the band has done with the running order. They smack you over the head with four of the best super-intense hard rock songs in a row, and then chill you out with three beautiful ballads in a row mid-album. Then it's back to finish you off with some commercial hard rock at the end.<br /> Listening to this record from start to finish is a must do and restores some of the faith I have in artists that still believe in the art of creating an album rather than a bunch of iTunes singles stuck together. Highlights of the album are indeed the whole album. Not one duff moment to be heard at all here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love Bites (So Do I)</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Mz. Hyde</font> are simply insane. Attitude you can't teach.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I Miss The Misery</font> is a hit single in waiting if radio could dare play anything so heavy and <font color="#ffff00">Freak Like Me</font> is as modern, yet melodic as it comes.<br /> Slowing things down are three very different ballads. The largely uptempo and lush <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful With You</font> is something Heart would be proud to call their own; <font color="#ffff00">In Your Room</font> is mellower still and by definition a pure melodic rock song; <font color="#ffff00">Break In</font> is simply stunning. Beautiful lyrics and beautiful emotional vocals from Lzzy. Another hit single.<br /> To ease back into the heavier groove <font color="#ffff00">Rock Show</font> builds you in and is a rather commercial rocker with a great chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Daughters Of Darkness</font> is just the band getting down and dirty, as is the very modern but hugely appealing <font color="#ffff00">You Call Me A Bitch Like It's A Bad Thing</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">American Boys</font> is about as commercial a hard rock song you can get and the chorus is melodic bliss.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Here's To Us</font> is a fricken gem of a track. Heartfelt and emotional yes, but ass kicking at the same time. More outstanding vocals, truly great. Noteworthy to see Glee has already snatched up the track and used it well (even if it's altered to fit that PG format).</font><br />   <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 Special Edition of the album adds three bonus tracks, which are also well worthy of inclusion, but as a no-nonsense, straight to the point 12 track 41 minute album, <font color="#00ffff">The Strange Case Of</font> is unparalleled as far as female fronted melodic hard rock. The band wrote 56 songs for this album, so I'll put my hand up right now with a request to hear more please! </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> Halestorm<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reanimate EP<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Strange Case Of...</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>Lzzy Hale:</b> Vocals, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joe Hottinger:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Arejay Hale:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Josh Smith:</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>Female fronted hard rock</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shinedown</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> Love Bites (So Do I) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Mz. Hyde <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Miss The Misery <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freak Like Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful With You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In Your Room <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Break In <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock Show <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Daughters Of Darkness<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Call Me A Bitch Like It's A Bad Thing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> American Boys <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here's To Us <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>H.E.A.T.</b> <font color="#ffffff">Address The Nation</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">earMusic</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/heat-addressthenation.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.heatsweden.com" target="new">HEAT</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>98%</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">Swedish new-era melodic rock saviours <b>H.E.A.T.</b> blew people away with their debut album which came out of nowhere a few years back. It was a modern day melodic rock masterpiece, no doubt. Their second album <font color="#00ffff">Freedom Rock</font> saw them take the foot off the accelerator, with a more varied release and a less satisfying production style. It was still very good, just not close to the impossibly brilliant debut.<br /> A couple of years of vocalist turmoil saw them replace original singer <b>Kenny Leckremo</b> with <b><i>Swedish Idol</i></b> winner <b>Erik Gronwall</b>, who was impressing folks all on his own. And who could forget his Idol audition vocal when he blew apart <b>Skid Row's</b> <font color="#ffff80">18 & Life</font>.<br /> The hugely anticipated result is album number three - <font color="#00ffff">Address The Nation</font> - a record that takes us back to the super tight production of the debut and the razor sharp anthemic style of those songs.<br /> But it adds in the different vocal style of Erik, so in reality, the new <b>H.E.A.T.</b> album is once again one with its own personality.<br /> But let's get right to the point – what a freeking amazing album it is! The guys have absolutely nailed it again with this gem of a melodic rock release, with its world class production and 10 'get to the point' tracks that are over way too fast.<br /> This album to me is the sum of parts made up from the likes of <b>Giant, Def Leppard</b> and <b>Eric Martin</b>.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Breaking The Silence</font> builds like any good opening anthem should, but nothing prepares you for the mammoth heights this song soars. Erik simply sounds incredible as he reaches notes impossible for mere mortals. Thumping drums, killer guitar solo and fist thumping rhythm, all with that monster chorus. Melodic rock perfection!<br /> The lead single <font color="#ffff00">Living On The Run</font> is intro'd by a classic 80s keyboard fill, and again builds through a reasonable restrained verse. But the chorus is nothing short of glorious again. You just can't turn this type of song up loud enough.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Falling Down</font> is the third big rocker in a row and while it isn't quite as massive as the two songs prior, it features a very effective vocal and another very catchy chorus.<br /> I doubt anyone will challenge <font color="#ffff00">The One And Only</font> for anthemic power ballad of 2012. This is yet another monster song and more signs of melodic rock perfection. The emotion in Erik's voice is amazing and the song's chorus is out of this world. And the high notes being touched are simply not fair! No one can sing along to this in tune!<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Better Off Alone</font> is a hard edged driving rocker with another hugely melodic verse/chorus where both guitar and keyboards get their time to shine.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">In And Out Of Trouble</font> sees the pace drop back for a moment. This is a really commercial 80s pop/rocker complete with saxophone and a simple, sing-along chorus. Shades of <b>Eddie Money</b> with that sax going strong.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Need Her</font> is a simpler straight forward rocker with another instant chorus and solid beat.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Heartbreaker</font> picks up the pace and takes us back to the 80s again. A feel good mid-tempo rocker complete with big harmony vocals once again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">It's All About Tonight</font> is another album highlight for me (even though there are no weak tracks). It just has that swagger and groove you can't teach bands. A pumping rock track that builds to a climactic chorus and those big harmonies again, not to mention Erik's amazing vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Downtown</font> is the album's “left turn” track. Its moody, it's subdued and it has a haunting feel to it. And as subtle as the chorus is compared to others on the album, it always stays in my head afterwards. A nice chance of pace to close what is an amazing 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"> Classic. Enough said! Utterly essential for all fans of the genre, Swedish melodic rock, readers of this site….everyone! Brilliant sound, energetic performances, crystal clear production and just short of the perfect 100 score. Why not 100? I got greedy…I wanted more. Another track like the opening anthem somewhere on the album would have sealed 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> H.E.A.T.<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Freedom Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Address The Nation</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 Grönwall:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Rivers, Dave Dalone:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Crash:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimmy Jay:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jona Tee:</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>Erik Gronwall</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Giant</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Martin</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Def Leppard</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> Breaking The Silence <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Living on the Run <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Falling Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The One And Only <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Better Off Alone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In and Out of Trouble<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Need Her <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heartbreaker<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> It's All About Tonight <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Downtown <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>Tyketto</b> <font color="#ffffff">Dig In Deep</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">FRCD550 </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/tyketto-digindeep.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Tyketto</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> April 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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>Tyketto</b> return for their first release featuring the original line-up since the band's second album <font color="#00ffff">Strength In Numbers</font> back in 1994. To say this release has been hugely anticipated is a massive understatement, so it is probably one of those albums that will be heavily debated amongst fans over the coming months.<br /> I've had an interesting time getting to know this album. It took more time than I anticipated and I think I have reached a conclusion that will stand as accurate as could possibly be. So after many many plays, I say that while this is a very strong melodic rock record, there are also a few disappointing factors that come into play.<br /> First – it's great to have these guys back as a band and it's terrific to hear the booming voice of <b>Danny Vaughn</b> in this format, plus that crunching guitar sound of <b>Brooke St. James</b>. This is a worthy album for most fans of <b>Tyketto</b>, but at the same time it isn't as pure a Tyketto album in the style of the monster classic debut <font color="#00ffff">Don't Come Easy</font> and the also classy <font color="#00ffff">Strength In Numbers</font>.<br /> Yes, the band has updated their sound – but only slightly – and that's not an issue for me here at all. What I hear on <font color="#00ffff">Dig In Deep</font> is more influence from the band <b>Vaughn</b> with only touches of classic <b>Tyketto</b>. <b>Danny Vaughn's</b> solo style is the dominant force here and interestingly I think his vocals have been influenced by his long stint in the <b>Eagles</b> tribute band he tours with.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Dig In Deep</font> is part hard hitting <b>Tyketto</b> and part mid-western acoustic driven melodic rock – which in itself isn't a problem, but those looking for a repeat of the harder edge Tyketto such as was the case with <font color="#00ffff">Don't Come Easy</font>, aren't going to get it here. And that massive drum sound isn't in place either.<br /> There are a few songs that find the band rocking hard, but overall appeal will be for those that also liked the stripped back and more acoustic driven sound of those <b>Vaughn</b> albums.<br /> And while there are a few simply stunning songs on this new album (as hoped), there is also a couple of tracks I found harder to appreciate and definitely took some time to grow on me. The guys are a lot older now and I think the urgency in the songwriting is not there as it was in the early days.<br /> <br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Faithless</font> is the opening track, first single and instant stand out from the album. Easily the best track, it is also the heaviest track, the most recognizably 'classic Tyketto' track and the most anthemic. If there were more tracks like this on the album, it would have been almost impossible to beat for album of the year.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Love To Love</font> mixes electric and acoustic throughout, but falls into the heavier side of things with electric guitar dominating. A strong vocal and guitar riff make it a winner, but the chorus could be bigger.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Here's Hoping It Hurts</font> is a lyrically biting song with some icy words for someone out there. Love the lyrics and the chorus is super catchy. Electric and acoustic guitars take even honours but it still remains an uptempo track at heart.<br /> The mid-tempo <font color="#ffff00">Battle Lines</font> features a strong harmony chorus, but the song itself is more a stripped back/earthy Vaughn influenced track.<br /> The <font color="#ffff00">Fight Left In Me</font> has a kick ass guitar soloing intro and sounds like it might just explode. But it sadly manages to remain restrained within itself. The hard edged guitar riff is great to hear and the chorus is super catchy again, albeit in a more laid back acoustic driven way before electric guitars kick back in again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Evaporate</font> is yet another track that bounces back and forth between electric and acoustic influences with the chorus definitely a <b>Vaughn</b> styled acoustic singalong in Danny's best mid-western delivery.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Monday</font> is another acoustic dominated mid-to-uptempo track. Catchy chorus, but yet again it's another track with that stripped back midwestern rock influence that seems to be ingrained into several tunes.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dig In Deep</font> is a far more powerful track with a heavier vocal and more electric than acoustic guitars and a somewhat progressive drum rhythm.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Sound Off</font> is one track I struggled with and continue to do so. The verse is classic Tyketto, but the chorus is awful. I just don't like it. Hard to appreciate the verse so much only to be hit with a disappointing chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Let This One Slide</font> is another mid-uptempo track that sounds closer to classic Tyketto and it remains another of my favorites. A good strong chorus too.<br /> The album closes with another track I haven't warmed to. <font color="#ffff00">This Is How We Say Goodbye</font> is a slow acoustic ballad that could have come from any Vaughn album and just doesn't 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"> The immense power of the first two <b>Tyketto</b> albums is not here. That wonderfully snappy drum kick and the tighter production and in deed the anthemic choruses are also largely not in play here. But it remains a well-constructed melodic rock album with its style more firmly planted in stripped back, acoustic driven mid-western rock. A good album for what it is, but well short of expectations for the original Tyketto line-up back together after so long. And one final word – the horrendously bad cover art is another slight disappointment. </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 Come Easy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strength In Numbers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dig In Deep</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 Vaughn:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Brooke St. James:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Clayton:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jimi Kennedy:</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>Tyketto</b> - Strength In Numbers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vaughn</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> Faithless <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love To Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here's Hoping It Hurts <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Battle Lines<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Fight Left In Me <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Evaporate<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Monday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dig In Deep<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sound Off<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Let This One Slide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is How We Say Goodbye<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>Jeff Scott Soto</b> <font color="#ffffff">Damage Control</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">FRCD545 </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-damagecontrol.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> JSS</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA</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 / 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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>97%</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>Jeff Scott Soto</b> returns with his new <font color="#00ffff">Damage Control</font> album – a self-reflective title which the singer freely sings about in the album's title track. <i>“Forget about my vanity, this is damage control…”</i><br /> It's an interesting state of mind for the singer to be in. Jeff's referring to his last solo album which was a left turn from the melodic hard rock base that he has built his career upon. However different the last album might have been, <font color="#00ffff">Beautiful Mess</font> was still a brilliantly crafted album of pop, rock and soul that was both haunting and deftly personal at the same time.<br /> But it didn't appeal to a wider audience (as unfair as that might be) and Jeff decided over time that his legacy must remain in rock music where he belongs. The success of the <b>W.E.T.</b> project only strengthened that belief amongst his fanbase.<br /> So here we have <font color="#00ffff">Damage Control</font>. An album that for me is an interesting contrast. First of all – the album seems so amazingly tight and cohesive, packed to the rim with everything JSS is known for and is best at. But it is all done with such a smooth delivery that it seems almost effortless. It's just how well Jeff does this stuff.<br /> <font color="#00ffff">Damage Control</font> is to me the ultimate – the definitive – <b>JSS</b> album. If someone was to ask me what <b>Jeff Scott Soto</b> was all about – this is what I would be playing.<br /> But not the standard release. This album is available in an 11 track regular version and a deluxe 14 track (plus DVD) package. The regular version does not tell the whole JSS story, nor does it sound as balanced as the deluxe version.<br /> See, Jeff was a metal singer in another life sometime back. We all know he can do smooth, we all know he can do AOR and melodic rock in blissful quality. But he can also do heavy. The deluxe version adds 3 important – no, vital – tracks to complete the whole <font color="#00ffff">Damage Control</font> picture. Two contemporary metal tinged tracks and one AOR ballad. That helps make this album the complete picture of whom JSS the artist is.<br /> And helping Jeff deliver the good is a stack of great names, including guitarist <b>Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger, Rock Of Ages)</b>, who co-writes a couple of tunes; drummer <b>Casey Grillo (Kamelot)</b> and special guests <b>Jamie Borger</b> and <b>Nalle Påhlsson (Treat)</b> and <b>Dave Meniketti (Y&T)</b>.<br /> <br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> <font color="#ffff00">Give A Little More</font> is a moody and intense introduction to the album, modern guitars and a great attitude, but a melodic verse and swagger filled chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Damage Control</font> has that same hard edge to it, but in a smooth, super-produced way. The lyrics are excellent and the layered vocals and harmonies are trademark JSS production sound. There is no mistaking who this is and he means business. These tracks take off where <font color="#00ffff">Lost In The Translation</font> left us.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Look Inside Your Heart</font> is the first of several more straight forward melodic rock tracks that mix the sound of this overall production with the classic AOR of <font color="#00ffff">Prism</font>. The chorus here is perfect and layered with Jeff's own backing vocals.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Die A Little</font> has to be one of the picks for Song Of The Year. Everything about this track is perfect JSS-AOR and I love it to pieces.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Take U Down</font> is where metal Jeff takes a stand. It's the perfect counterbalance to the AOR of the last tune. The tuned down guitars and heavy beat/shredding riff drive this song into the heaviest places Jeff has visited as a solo artist. And it's only part of the deluxe version. Great energy here and the closing sequence is brilliant.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">If I Never Let Her Go</font> steers us straight back into AOR mode and while it might seem that the album's cohesiveness could come undone here, it just doesn't. It's a very smooth transition despite the different styles. Another great mid-tempo melodic anthem here. <font color="#ffff00">Tears That I Cry</font> is a more urgent rocker with a melodic heart, but a heavier exterior.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">BonaFide</font> is the big ballad of the album and what a ballad it is. Heartfelt, emotional and that big big soaring chorus that longtime fans will love.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Elena</font> is another of the deluxe bonus tracks, but this isn't heavy in any way – it's another perfectly crafted, smooth as silk melodic rocker with a big catchy chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Krazy World</font> is a more driving, guitar heavy rocker with a big beat and an infections chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How To Love Again</font> is yet another smooth uptempo melodic rocker, catchy chorus and harmony vocals included. Longtime fans will love.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">AfterWorld</font> turns back to the heavy vibe again. Not the catchiest track on the album, but it fits into the flow of the album well and cranks up that guitar again.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">NeverEnding War</font> is another ballad of sorts, but not a power ballad – a more intense moment of reflection and overall, a really class song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Afraid To Die</font> closes the deluxe edition album by crunching our ears into submission with the heaviest and perhaps most alternative sounding track Jeff has released to date (under his own name). </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"> What's left to summarize? Classic Soto as expected and trademark Soto from start to finish. A little bit of everything for everybody here, with longtime fans the most handsomely rewarded. Essential of course! It's as smooth as silk and immensely powerful at the same 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> Love Parade<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jeffscottsoto-holdingon.html">Holding On EP</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="jeffscottsoto-prism.p3">Prism</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="reviews-tobeindexed.html">Live At The Gods</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost In The Translation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful Mess<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live At Firefest V<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damage Control</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>JSS</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> Give A Little More <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Damage Control <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Look Inside Your Heart <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Die A Little <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take U Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> If I Never Let Her Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears That I Cry<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> BonaFide <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Elena<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Krazy World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How To Love Again <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> AfterWorld<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> NeverEnding War<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Afraid To Die <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>Trixter</b> <font color="#ffffff">New Audio Machine</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">FRCD551 </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/trixter-newaudiomachine.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Trixter</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> April 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> </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="#ff0000" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">Ridiculed by some for their million selling debut, then revered for their anthemic melodic rock masterpiece <font color="#00ffff">Hear!</font> <b>Trixter</b> split not too long after that and haven't made a record together in 20 years. But far from inactive, the guys have been doing their own thing to far more critical acclaim than their original band was ever given credit for.<br /> <b>Steve Brown</b> is a constant force with his one man shows, <b>Van Halen</b> cover band and melodic modern rock bands <b>Throwan Rocks, Soaked, 40ft Ringo</b> and <b>Stereo Fallout</b>; plus bassist <b>PJ</b> is with modern rockers <b>Ra</b>.<br /> So after touring together again and releasing new and archive live material, it was finally time for <b>Trixter</b> to record again. The result – <font color="#00ffff">New Audio Machine</font> – is an album of two different styles, but both work together and both sound great.<br /> Given that the guys had all been in modern rock projects prior to this, I had a natural expectation that the new studio album would reflect that. It does in a few places (which is a small part of the album's personality), but the far more dominant personality within this is big sounding, old-school party hard rock!<br /> It really surprised me how old-school this sounds in places and how much old fashioned energy the record has. For example, the opening cut <font color="#ffff00">Drag Me Down</font> just blows me away with power. With swagger and attitude more suited to <b>Lynch Mob</b> or <b>Motley Crue</b>, the album's acoustic intro explodes into a bonafide hard rocker.<br /> Then it's straight into <font color="#ffff00">Get On It</font>, with more bombastic drumming, hard riffing and another attitude laced chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dirty Love</font> is so 80s it isn't funny, mixing <b>AC/DC</b> riffing with <b>Def Leppard</b> style harmonies.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Machine</font> is straight out of the AC/DC stadium filler handbook, giving this album a truly dynamic and explosive start.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Live For The Day</font> is the first track to showcase the “otherside”, that is a more modern and contemporary approach, with a more complex structure and a more laid back approach. I don't have writing credits, but I know <b>Glen Burtnik</b> is on here somewhere – I'd swear that this is his moment. A terrific mid-tempo ballad of sorts.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Ride</font> goes straight back to the <b>Def Leppard</b> style harmonies and the harder edge guitar style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Physical Attraction</font> is another old school rocker, but I'm not into this track as much. Doesn't grab me and the chorus is pretty weak.<br /> But in contrast, the next song and lead single <font color="#ffff00">Tattoo's & Misery</font> is an anthemic masterpiece mixing old and new, working perfectly.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Coolest Thing</font> is another fabulous track and another with a more contemporary style that could see it at home on radio anywhere.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Save Your Soul</font> is a fist punching hard rock anthem with a good chorus and lots of harmonies.<br /> And closing the album is <font color="#ffff00">Walk With A Stranger</font>, a pretty simple rocker that isn't quite as sharp as some other tunes, but I like the chorus and its energy. </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 killer comeback that sounds as fresh as the band was 20 years ago. They have only modernized slightly (which might be an issue disappointing those looking for more 40ft Ringo style material), but the core of the album is straight up melodic hard rock – which was always what the band were about. Great job guys. </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> Trixter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hear!<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Undercovers<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Audio Machine</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 Loran:</b> Vocals, rhythm guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Brown:</b> Guitars, harmonica, backing vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mark "Gus" Scott:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>P. J. Farley:</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>Trixter</b> - Hear!<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Steve Brown</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Winger</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> Drag Me Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Get On It <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dirty Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Machine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Live For The Day <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ride<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Physical Attraction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tattoos & Misery <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Coolest Thing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Save Your Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Walk With A Stranger<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>Jack Blades</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rock N Roll Ride</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">FRCD547 </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/jackblades-rocknrollride.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Blades</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / USA / JP </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>95%</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>Jack Blades</b> is back in the game with his second solo album. And the good news for fans is that the album continues on the great work of the last <b>Night Ranger</b> album and blows Jack's debut solo album out of the water.<br /> Backed by an all-star cast of friends and familiar names, the diverse, but rocking album features Night Ranger alumni <b>Kelly Keagy, Joel Hoekstra, Brad Gillis</b> and <b>Eric Levy</b>, plus guests <b>Will Evankovich, Brian Tichy, Christian Cullen, Alan Hertz</b> plus Jack's own son <b>Colin Blades</b>.<br /> This album has a much more cohesive feel than Jack's debut, which wandered a bit too much. But it still has a diversity that sums up Jack's musical influences and despite featuring all <b>Night Ranger</b> members; it has its own unique feel.<br /> There are fist pumping anthems such as <font color="#ffff00">Back In The Game, Rock N Roll Ride, Love Life</font>, the groovy <font color="#ffff00">Rise And Shine</font> and the brilliantly anthemic <font color="#ffff00">Born For This</font>.<br /> The acoustic driven tempo of <b>Shaw/Blades</b> is touched upon with the retro vibe of <font color="#ffff00">West Hollywood</font> (written with son Colin); <font color="#ffff00">Don't Give Up</font> (with its Grade A chorus) and <font color="#ffff00">Anything For You</font> – featuring perfectly harmonized lead vocals from <b>Robin Zander</b> during the chorus. Having heard this, I think Mr. Zander and Mr. Blades should talk about future collaborations.<br /> There is only one proper ballad and that is the killer <font color="#ffff00">Hardest Word To Say</font>, with a chorus to die for.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Say You Will</font> is another anthemic rocker and <font color="#ffff00">Hey Now</font> is an acoustic pop song 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"> Without any doubt this is an essential purchase again for <b>Night Ranger</b> and Blades fans and also those that enjoyed the <b>Shaw/Blades</b> releases. There's a little bit of everything here for Jack fans and the quality of the album is everything you'd expect after the killer Night Ranger album of 2011. </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="jackblades-jackblades.p3">Jack Blades</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll 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>Jack Blades:</b> Vocals, Bass, Guitar, Acoustic<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joel Hoekstra, Will Evankovich:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kelly Keagy and Brian Tichy:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eric Levy and Christian Matthew Cullen:</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>Night Ranger</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Shaw/Blades</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 Game <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rock N Roll Ride<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born For This <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hardest Word To Say <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Anything For You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love Life <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> West Hollywood<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Say You Will <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Give Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rise And Shine<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hey Now<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>Crazy Lixx</b> <font color="#ffffff">Riot Avenue</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">FRCD551 </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/crazylixx-riotavenue.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> April 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="#ffff00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">I love both of the first two <b>Crazy Lixx</b> albums – the last one <font color="#00ffff">New Religion</font> is still one of the best albums of its kind to come out of Sweden in recent years. Their mix of thumping hard rock with <b>Def Leppard</b> style anthems and some of that glorious Swedish attitude was gold to my ears.<br /> But 2 minutes into <font color="#00ffff">Riot Avenue</font>, I knew something had changed (besides the lineup), the style of the first two records was out the window.<br /> Gone are the <b>Def Leppard</b> and <b>Kiss</b> influences, instead the band are now on the dirtier, straight ahead, raw, rock n roll vibe of <b>AC/DC</b> meets <b>Buckcherry</b>.<br /> The pomp and anthemic choruses have been replaced with simple structures and there are noticeably less harmonies and more scream-induced lead vocals.<br /> On the plus side, the production is razor sharp and the album rocks harder than ever before. The new duel guitar feed makes things louder and more in your face.<br /> But for me – the songs are just not there like they were.<br /> There are a still a few absolute gems here - <font color="#ffff00">Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Young Blood</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Riot Avenue</font> are clearly the three best tracks, but after opening the album with those, it's all downhill.<br /> The songs simply sound too much the same and I really have struggled with big parts of the album. The mid-tempo gritty rocker <font color="#ffff00">Heatseeker</font> has a good chorus as does <font color="#ffff00">Sweet, Bad & Beautiful</font>, but the rest…sorry.<br /> The album closes with a big 6 minute heavy ballad, but again, nothing like the quality of the first two albums. </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 major disappointment considering the class and quality of the last album. I can't see the band going backwards with a new line-up, but where they go from here is questionable. They will certainly need much stronger material next time around. I will say though, there is a chance the style change will suit a different kind of fan differently. I just don't see that as being the majority. </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> Loud Minority<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Religion<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Riot Avenue</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 Rexon:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Dawson:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Joél Cirera:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Loke Rivano:</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>AC/DC</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> Whiskey Tango Foxtrot <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Young Blood <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Riot Avenue <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fire It Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Downtown<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> In The Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Church Of Rock<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Heatseeker <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Sweet, Bad & Beautiful<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Be Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Only The Dead Know<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>Tom Galley - The Creater Of Phenomena</b> <font color="#ffffff">Awakening</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">ESM237 </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-awakening.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 & 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> April 20</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>84%</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">The title of these last couple of “Phenomena” releases has always confused. <b><i>"From Tom Galley, the Creator of Phenomena”</i></b>? That to me just says that this album is loosely based on his original concept and he has little to do with it. And it seems this is the last of these so titled albums, so go figure. I have no writing credits, so I have no idea if Tom has any part in this album, but of all the credits I do have, he is only listed as co-producer.<br /> The rest – and the absolutely bulk of this album – belongs to <b>Martin Kronlund</b> and the Kronlund Backing Band team of <b>Imre Daun</b> and <b>Henrik Thomsen</b> + guests. But what a list of guests!<br /> To review the album, one has to delve into each of the songs. Some work, some don't and overall the album is a little disjointed, but does feature some fine melodic hard rock moments.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Smash It Up</font> (Lee Small: Vocals, Mat Sinner: Bass, Magnus Karlsson: Lead Guitars) is a slow, but hard rocking track with some solid Small vocals. Not obviously catchy, but it hangs in there and sticks in your brain.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Reality</font> (Toby Hitchcock: Vocals, Mike Slamer: Lead Guitars) is a nice mix of talents but again, isn't the catchiest tune I've ever heard and Toby's at the gruffest point of his vocal limits here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Homeland</font> (Rob Moratti: Vocals, Martin Kronlund: all Guitars) is the great song from the classic Glenn Hughes album From Now On. Interesting to hear someone like Rob sing it in that far higher octave. It works, but hard to match the original.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Going Away</font> (James Christian: Vocals, Tommy Denander: Guitars) is the pairing of old friends Tommy and James and is a pretty moody rock track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gotta Move</font> (Ralf Scheepers: Vocals, Christian Wolff & Tommy Denander: Guitars) is one of the better and more memorable tracks. Pretty heavy too, but Ralf uses a very melodic tone here.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">How Long</font> (Lee Small: Vocals, Martin Kronlund: Guitars), features more great vocals and continues the rather uncommercial and left of center style of the Phenomena legacy.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Shake</font> (Mike DiMeo: Vocals, Martin Kronlund: Guitars), nope, doesn't work for me. Too plodding without ever making a point.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fighter</font> (Terry Brock: Vocals, Steve Newman: Guitars and backing vocals) is again uncommercial and intense, but Terry manages to make a positive vocal mark with his track.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Dancing Days</font> (Niklas Swedentorp: Lead Vocals with all Coldspell members), is pretty decent and in the traditional mold of the early Phenomena albums.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Stand Up For Love</font> (Chris Antblad: Vocals, with JAVA Gospel Choir) has Chris Antblad's pop/rock stamp all over it. A nice little song, but the softer pop nature of it is totally out of character with the rest 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"> Choruses are not something you are going to hear much of here. Certainly nothing anthemic at least. It's all very moody and very intense and fits the overall <b>Phenomena</b> mold of style and concept. There are some impressive individual performances from the many many guests, but the absolute clarity of the release is that despite all the guests, it remains a very marginal album best suited for a select group of fans. And it proves that without strong commercial songs, all the stars in the world won't make much of a difference at the end of the day. </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> Phenomena<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dream Runner<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Inner Vision<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> PsychoFantasy<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind Faith<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Awakening</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">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>Phenomena</b> - Blind Faith</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> Smash It Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reality <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Homeland<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Going Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gotta Move <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> How Long<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Shake<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fighter <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Dancing Days<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Up For 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Departure</b> <font color="#ffffff">Hitch A Ride</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">ESM238 </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/departure-hitcharide.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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 Walsh / Mixed: 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">The sound of a new <b>Departure</b> album takes me back to when I first started this site and all the best “new AOR” was still coming out of the USA. Their debut came in 1998 and the last album was as far back as 2001! And this, being album number 4, sees <b>Mike Walsh</b> using singer number 4. It makes a relationship between albums a little hard to follow when there is a new singer every time.<br /> This time around it is Swedish singer <b>Andi Kravljaca (Silent Call)</b> who straightens out his style to match the straight forward pomp-AOR of Mike Walsh's compositions. This is a very well produced (by <b>Mike Walsh</b>) and mixed album (mixing by <b>Martin Kronlund</b> again) and it packs a more powerful punch than the previous albums.<br /> It also has a more European feel thanks to Kronlund's mix and Andi's vocal style.<br /> The first half of the album moves along beautifully with the AOR/melodic rock delight of <font color="#ffff00">Nowhere To Go, You Don't Need To Do This Anymore</font> and the organ drenched <font color="#ffff00">Waiting For Rain To Come</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Solider Of Fortune</font> and <font color="#ffff00">LuvSick</font> seem to have a simpler mid-tempo style, but it is the intense, but more personal <font color="#ffff00">Roses</font> that sticks out for me in this mid-album run.<br /> It was here that the album fell away for me initially and I really had to work hard to get through it for the first several listens. I just don't think the songs in the second half are as strong as the first half.<br /> However, <font color="#ffff00">Fly</font> has a good chorus and the big ballad <font color="#ffff00">Without You</font> is also ear catching – maybe because it sounds like a complete rip-off of <b>Bon Jovi's</b> <font color="#ffff00">I'd Die For You</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"> Not a band album, but not the best either in the <b>Departure</b> catalogue. The first few tracks had that hallmark Departure sound of pomp meets AOR, but elsewhere it tends to blend into an all-too-familiar Euro-melodic rock sound that doesn't give Walsh as much space to shine with his usual big guitar/key interplays. Still, the positives outweigh the negatives and Andi's performance on here is a highlight. </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> Departure<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Open Your Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Corporate Wheel<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hitch a 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>Andi Kravljaca:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mike Walsh:</b> Guitars, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Duey Ribestello:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ryan Walsh:</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 Walsh</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Kronlund</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 Where To Go <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Don't Need To This Anymore <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Waiting For Rain To Come <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Soldier Of Fortune<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> LuvSick <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Roses<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Travel Through Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fly<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> This Is My Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Without You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outside Looking In<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>Furyon</b> <font color="#ffffff">Gravitas</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">FRCD548 </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/furyon-gravitas.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Rick Beato</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 63</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU / US</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 / 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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>70%</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">British metallers <b>Furyon</b> are touted as one of the bands for the future and certainly have the pedigree and backing to make it. The band formed out of the ashes of melodic rock outfit <b>Pride</b> (although there's no mention of this in the band's bio), changing course to this more contemporary metal vision. Probably a wise move by the guys knowing the state of the melodic scene financially, but fans of Pride must realize that sound has been left totally behind.<br /> This is modern metal with retro influences of <b>Alice In Chains, Black Sabbath</b> and others.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Gravitas</font> is a very challenging album to get into. It's very heavy which is ok, but also very contemporary, which is harder for me to like, especially with the vocals.<br /> It's dark and grungy and it is absolutely singular in its hard hitting approach. There is some brilliant musicianship going on here and some very long songs (6, 7 and 8 minute tracks alongside 3 and 4 minute songs). Intelligent songwriting and thinking man's metal, yes, absolutely. Something for all? Not even close. I love the tight sound and the intensity of the record, but the style isn't for me personally and because of that fact, I know a number of other melodic fans will find it challenging too.<br /> The vocal style isn't to my liking either, but there is no doubt Matt Mitchel's range and exceptional delivery will impress modern metalheads. </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 have been described as "world class mainstream metal" by UK Metal Hammer and that will either make or break this band for you. For melodic rock fans, there isn't enough here for you. For fans of grungy, powerful metal with a contemporary (yet melodic) edge, then investigate further. Intense and powerful, but tread carefully. </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> Gravitas</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 Mitchell:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Chris Green, Pat Heath:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Lee Farmery:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex "Nickel" Bowen:</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>Modern 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> Disappear Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stand Like Stone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Souvenirs<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Follow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> New Way of Living<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voodoo Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fear Alone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wasted on You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Our Peace Someday<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Desert Suicide<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voodoo Me (acoustic)*<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Souvenirs (acoustic)*</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>One Man's Trash</b> <font color="#ffffff">History</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">As Is</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/onemanstrash-history.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Frank Zahl</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> 2011</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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/Pop</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>86%</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">Interesting album. The initial press info was never clear on just who was behind this project, despite the very prominent advertising of <b>Jimi Jamison</b> as the frontman. The band is formed and run by German guitarist Frank Zahl. The rest of the band is German also and Jimi has been recruited as frontman. Jimi and the band received quite a bit of local traction in Germany for the lead single <font color="#ffff00">Restless Kind</font>.<br /> It's kinda strange to hear a German band so obviously influenced by the American contemporary country scene, but whatever the case, it is done well and Jimi's vocals are perfectly matched for the music. He's no stranger to dabbling in the southern brand of pop.<br /> So while a few of the tracks are straight ahead pop/rock, the majority have a country-ish tinge, with a couple of tracks attracting a southern boogie vibe.<br /> An open mind is needed in places and secondly, the production is pretty sparse in places and the mix isn't always balanced in favor of certain instruments.<br /> There isn't a lot of layering going on here and it can occasionally sound a little thin.<br /> But at the heart of things is an album of impressive songs – mixing a southern brand of melodic rock (<font color="#ffff00">Real Thing, The Restless Kind, History, Lose My Mind, Out Of Control</font>) with country/pop (<font color="#ffff00">Meadowland, She Shines</font>) and a few country ballads (<font color="#ffff00">Through Your Eyes, Tears In My Eyes</font>).<br /> The two bonus acoustic tracks just further strengthen the country vibe 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"> The album has a charming appeal, but I wouldn't say it will automatically appeal to all Jimi Jamison or all melodic rock fans. But, Jamison fans are guaranteed some great vocals and a solid performance overall. </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> History</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>Frank Zahl:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Heinzangel:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Timo von Kresslein:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Beathoven:</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>Jimi Jamison</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> Real Thing <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Restless Kind <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Long Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> History <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Meadowland <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lose My Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Through Your Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She Shines<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of Control <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Tears In My Eyes<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Restless Kind (acoustic)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> History (Hotel-room 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Frozen Rain</b> <font color="#ffffff">Ahead of Time</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Avenue Of Allies</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/frozenrain-aheadoftime.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Frozen Rain / Mixed by Alessandro Del Vecchio</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.avenue-of-allies.com" target="new">Avenue Of Allies</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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>Frozen Rain</b> belongs to Belgium's <b>Kurt Vereecke</b>, who founded the band and plays keyboards, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, backing vocals. The debut album is now four years old and the line-up is slightly different here – most notably with the inclusion of established vocalist <b>Carsten Schulz</b>. The debut was a very loose sounding record in a traditional European AOR style. It definitely had its charms.<br /> The new album is somewhat of a different beast all-together. In fact, aside from appealing to generally the same audience, this is a brand new band.<br /> The sound is more uptempo and tougher overall, melodic rock instead of AOR and Carsten changes the whole dynamic with his vocal style.<br /> This is now closer to <b>Evidence One</b> which will please some considering that band put their album plans on hold. The songs are also longer, allowing some expanded instrumentation.<br /> Highlights over the album include the uptempo <font color="#ffff00">Forever</font>, where guitars and keyboard duel for attention; the tough E1 style of <font color="#ffff00">Breakin' Out</font>; the very melodic but somewhat clichéd <font color="#ffff00">We're Gonna Rock</font>; the anthemic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Too Late</font>; the slowly building <font color="#ffff00">Ahead Of Time</font> and the near 6 minute feel good rocker <font color="#ffff00">The Way That You</font>.<br /> The album is rounded out with an impressing and somewhat blazing guitar driven instrumental. </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 felt the debut was more unique, but the power and production of this album is far superior and Carsten does a great job on vocals as always. So it's a fine package, if not a little too familiar style wise with some other releases out there. European melodic rock fans should definitely check out. </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> Frozen Rain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ahead Of Time</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>Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Kurt Vereecke:</b> Keyboards, Bass, Acoustic Guitar, Backing Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Rik Priem:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Hans Vereecke:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Vincent De Laat:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jurgen Vitrier:</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>Evidence One</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> Believe It Or Not <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Forever <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Breakin' Out<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> We're Gonna Rock <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Too Late <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Turn It On<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Ahead Of Time<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Last Dance Ain't Over<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Not At Home<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Way That You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voodoo Party<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>Romeo's Daughter</b> <font color="#ffffff">Rapture</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/romeosdaughter-rapture.jpg" width="200" /> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> </td> <td align="center" valign="top" width="80%"> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="60%"> <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> Romeo's Daughter</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> UK / EU </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.romeosdaughter.co.uk" target="new">www.romeosdaughter.co.uk</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>94%</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">I must admit to not paying much attention to UK melodic rock outfit <b>Romeo's Daughter</b>. Sure they are a name I read about when <b>Kerrang</b> actually contained something resembling good music in its pages, but the band never got any push down under and hence, I just kind of passed them by. Thanks to the recent <b>Rock Candy</b> re-issues I now have the band's first two albums – terrific straight ahead melodic rock/AOR from the late 80s.<br /> The band got back together like so many others in recent years, and this album came across my desk as needing coverage. With no expectation I put it on and was absolutely and immediately captivated by its contents. And I haven't stopped playing it since. Several weeks have now passed and I'm still total enamored with this release.<br /> It is another wonderful example of a classic melodic rock outfit moving their sound and the genre as a whole forward, without sounding like they don't belong or are uncomfortable in their own skin.<br /> In fact, they sound so totally at ease on this release it helps the listener appreciate what fine songs they are.<br /> This is one of the finest female fronted albums in recent years and I'm excited to bring this review to you, in hope others will discover this album. <font color="#00ffff">Rapture</font> is an engaging melodic rock album with passages of contemporary pop and a blindingly good refined production job that just sparkles.<br /> The album is varied in style from the opening rock salvo of <font color="#ffff00">Trippin' Out</font> to the <b>Shania Twain</b> friendly pop of <font color="#ffff00">Bittersweet</font> to the commercial AOR feel of <font color="#ffff00">Cannot Be The One</font> – and that's just the first three tracks!<br /> The pop/punk of <font color="#ffff00">Keep Walking</font> barely reaches 3 minutes and includes an amazing chorus. Power pop at its absolute best.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lightning</font> is a beautiful ballad that could be all over radio today given any justice and makes it 5 styles in 5 tracks, yet all of them sound perfect as they run one after another.<br /> Then there is <font color="#ffff00">Alive</font> – bloody hell if this isn't one of the tracks of 2012. What an absolutely glorious melodic rock anthem with a chorus to die for.<br /> Elsewhere we have the sultry <font color="#ffff00">Fly Away</font>; the pure pop of <font color="#ffff00">Make My Dreams Come True</font>; the 80s moody pop/rock of <font color="#ffff00">Precious Thing</font>; feel good catchy AOR in <font color="#ffff00">Talking Love</font>; uptempo melodic rock in <font color="#ffff00">He's Mine</font> and then the beautiful acoustic ballad <font color="#ffff00">Will Be</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 album might be melodic rock-lite and fairly laid back overall, but what a lush sound and what captivating songs. 12 tracks over 44 minutes without a dull second – simply a wonderful, brilliantly crated album chock full of melodic songs of the highest 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> Romeo's Daughter<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Delectable<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Rapture</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>Leigh Matty:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Craig Joiner:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andy Wells:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Ed Poole:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Tony Mitman:</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>Fiona</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Heart</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dare</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> Trippin' Out <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bittersweet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cannot Be The One <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Keep Walking <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lightning <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Alive <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fly Away<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Make My Dreams Come True<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Precious Thing<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Talking Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> He's Mine <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Will Be<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>Outloud</b> <font color="#ffffff">More Catastrophe</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/outloud-morecatastrophe.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> Outloud</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>60%</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">I absolutely loved the <b>Outloud</b> debut and gave it a lot of praise when some others weren't so willing. The follow up last year was also pretty good, although it didn't match the quality of the debut. Despite being titled after the most recent album, The band states that as far as the three new songs that open up this EP, they “serve as a road sign as to where we're going.”<br /> If that's the case the band should heed the red Stop sign this EP signals, do an immediate U-turn and head back in the direction of their debut. I love the guys, but these three songs aren't of the standard the Outloud name should carry and I think they sound rushed, far rougher overall and don't hold up on the choruses at all.<br /> They just sound really unpolished, loose and even somewhat punky in style. And the vocals are nowhere near the quality of the first two albums.<br /> The EP also includes the band's separately released Christmas song and two acoustic tracks, which work pretty well considering they really are rock songs. </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>Blessed By A Broken Heart</b> <font color="#ffffff">Feel The Power</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Tooth & Nail</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">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/blessedbyabrokenheart-feelthepower.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> James Paul Wisner</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> US / CA / EU</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.facebook.com/blessedbyabrokenheart" target="new">@ Facebook</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">From a debut as a metalcore band to a move in 2008 to a glam rock outfit and back to a glam/melodic metal outfit in 2012, Canada's <b>Blessed By A Broken Heart</b> are on their third label and possibly their last chance. But there's hope, as this is a blinding album of super-paced metal riffs, melodic vocals, glam like attitude and really really catchy songs.<br /> A major label production and layers and layers of vocals and instrumentation make for a very compelling release – should the band be shredding triple time through <font color="#ffff00">Deathwish</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Shut Up And Rock</font>; rapping thru the verse of <font color="#ffff00">Love Nightmare</font>, only to have it turn into a <b>Def Leppard</b> style anthem chorus; or sailing through AOR anthems such as the glorious <font color="#ffff00">Forever</font>.<br /> Then there is the sentimental ballad <font color="#ffff00">I've Got You</font>, which could almost fit on a <b>Backstreet Boys</b> release (except good and but with guitars!). Yes, there is certainly something for everyone on this release! It's wild, its diverse, it's awkward at times….but when you hear something like the AOR-tastic hands in the air <font color="#ffff00">Rockin' All Night</font>, any sins are forgiven.<br /> Where else could you hear <b>Blue Tears</b> goes modern rock with a little <b>Def Leppard</b>, some <b>H.E.A.T.</b> and <b>Rage Against The Machine</b> all in one package? Overall, a breath of fresh air and an interesting slice of music and soooo much better than their patchy debut. </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>Casablanca</b> <font color="#ffffff">Apocalyptic Youth</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Rocket Songs</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">008 </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/casablanca-apocalypticyouth.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> Chris Laney</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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/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.casablancaband.com" target="new">Casablanca</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>91%</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">Former <b>Alice Cooper</b> guitarist <b>Ryan Roxie</b> has always had a thing for power pop and now relocated to Sweden, where all bands are dipped in miracle tonic and empowered with brilliance, he has been able to put together the perfect lineup to record his dream album.<br /> And <b>Casablanca</b> is the band. <font color="#00ffff">Apocalyptic Youth</font> (Hey, Slash, these guys were first with the apocalypse!), is a superbly produced album of gritty power pop and anthemic melodic rock.<br /> Nothing heavy about this – just a notch above what <b>Cheap Trick</b> might deliver, with notable comparisons to the best power pop band in the world throughout this album. And I'm hearing a good dose of older <b>Goo Goo Dolls</b> here too.<br /> 10 tracks, 35 minutes…no time for filler here. A nice clean guitar sound and balanced mix, plus the singer has attitude you can't buy. The choruses here are just great. <font color="#ffff00">Apocalyptic Youth</font> is great; <font color="#ffff00">Downtown</font> is brilliant and the sultry pop of <font color="#ffff00">The Juggler</font> is something unique indeed.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Rich Girl</font> shows musical maturity few debut albums could carry off with a great chorus and slick guitar hook and <font color="#ffff00">Beast Of Summer</font> is simply glorious.<br /> Great attitude, great production and should the style of this album appeal, it really should rank as a highlight of 2012 for power pop/glam/melodic rock fans.<br /> And I should add it is perfectly produced by the masterful <b>Chris Laney</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>Chris Antblad</b> <font color="#ffffff">A New Dawn</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Atenzia</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ATZ1208 </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/chrisantblad-anewdawn.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> Chris Antblad</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> SE</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/Pop </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>87%</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">I couldn't review Chris' masterful debut as it was on my label (after taking over the planned Angelmilk release). I lived with that album for 2 years, so it's going to be hard to set that aside, such is my admiration for it.<br /> But Chris has delivered his second solo album and with any justice he can gain a wider audience with this. The debut was a mix of pure AOR, pop ballads and Westcoast. Chris is a fine songwriter and works in the country and R&B fields also.<br /> On <font color="#00ffff">A New Dawn</font>, the style settles more around guitar based AOR and melodic rock. While the style might be more settled than the diverse debut, the tempo is also less varied, which makes getting to know the album a little harder, but the rewards are there.<br /> There are some real gems here such as the intense <font color="#ffff00">Maybe Someday</font>; the crossover hit potential of <font color="#ffff00">Nothing Happened</font>; the poptastic AOR of <font color="#ffff00">Too Far Away</font>; the guitar driven openers <font color="#ffff00">Love Was</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Who Loves You Now</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">She Makes Love With The Light On</font> is an instant feel good AOR anthem and the closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">Love Came Along</font> is also very rewarding. It has moments of <b>Bryan Adams'</b> breakthrough hit <font color="#ffff80">Heaven</font> in there too.<br /> <br /> Chris has a unique voice and I love his sound, his style and his delivery. His two albums to date have both been high quality pop/Westcoast/AOR and his songs just have this great likability factor. For fans of the debut – this is essential without question. </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>Bruce Springsteen</b> <font color="#ffffff">Wrecking Ball</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Sony 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/brucespringsteen-wreckingball.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> Ron Aniello with Bruce Springsteen</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> 2012</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.brucespringsteen.net" target="new">Bruce</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>93%</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">Only Bruce could write a set of socially aware and challenging songs and still make the listener feel good when listening to them. This is easily my favourite Bruce album since the <font color="#00ffff">Human Touch/Lucky Town</font> duel release. There is just something really charming about this album, despite the challenging nature of the lyrics talking of despair and injustice.<br /> Bruce's heavy use of Celtic influences and the use of such instruments as banjo, accordion, hurdy gurdy, mandola, violin, tuba…the list goes on…gives this album such a rich texture.<br /> Plus with the addition of male and female gospel vocals there is a real soulful element added to an already impressive list of harmony vocal contributors, not to mention the gospel choir and full orchestral backing on some songs.<br /> There is a plethora of layers in these songs, which seem simple enough on the first couple of listens, until they bury themselves into your mind and their true complexities come to light.<br /> There is a sense of melody about this album that I love – the lush textures and old-world charm of <font color="#ffff00">Shackled And Drawn</font>; the biting <font color="#ffff00">Death To My Hometown</font> and the warmth of <font color="#ffff00">We Are Alive</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Wrecking Ball</font> and the 7 minute <font color="#ffff00">Land Of Home And Dreams</font> are both epic classic Springsteen which are contrasted by the unique and haunting <font color="#ffff00">Rocky Ground</font>.<br /> And for those that love to hear Bruce swoon, you are catered for with <font color="#ffff00">Jack Of All Trades</font> and the beautiful <font color="#ffff00">This Depression</font>.<br /> <br /> Just a terrific collection of songs really. Bringing memories of classic Springsteen, mixed with <font color="#00ffff">Tunnel Of Love</font> (my all-time favourite), <font color="#00ffff">Human Touch</font> and <font color="#00ffff">The Rising</font>…plus something new, if that is at all possible after all these years. Deifying his age and this industry's demand for youth and disposable pap, The Boss once again delivers in fine style. </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>UFO</b> <font color="#ffffff">Seven Deadly</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="18%"><img alt="" height="200" src="/files-archive/reviews/ufo-sevendeadly.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> UFO</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> </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="#00bb00" height="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>68%</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">This seems to be the month of reviews for blues based hard rock albums. <b>UFO</b> seem to be on a pretty consistent run over the last decade – or more so when they and <b>Michael Schenker</b> parted ways.<br /> Together with guitarist <b>Vinny Moore</b>, the band has turned out another new album here in the form of <font color="#00ffff">Seven Deadly</font>. The album gets off to a great start with a couple of uptempo rockers, but come track three that dreaded slow plodding blues rock tempo I really can't get into arrives.<br /> I like slow ballads and I like the occasional slow rocker, but when the majority of an album is comprised of such tracks without any major chorus change, I just don't have the patience for it anymore. Not when there are so many other options.<br /> The only time the tempo changes after track two is for the more melodic friendly <font color="#ffff00">Year Of The Gun</font> and the bar room boogie of <font color="#ffff00">The Fear</font>.<br /> The closing track <font color="#ffff00">Waving Good Bye</font> is a mix of electric and acoustic and features a nice electric solo and a more memorable chorus.<br /> But overall, there just isn't enough life in this record to draw me back in for repeat listens now the review process is over. </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>Axel Rudi Pell</b> <font color="#ffffff">Circle Of The Oath</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">260030 </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/axelrudipell-circleoftheoath.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> 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> 59</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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.axel-rudi-pell.de" target="new">ARP</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="195"> <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>Axel Rudi Pell</b> is back with yet another new studio album. His band has barely changed in the 14 years since <b>Johnny Gioeli</b> replaced <b>JSS</b> on lead vocals. An obvious testament to the guitarist who is obviously a pleasure to work with.<br /> And ARP always impresses – but that's mainly because he is always the same. This is the 9th studio album since Gioeli joined (not including new tracks for compilations) and it is also the 9th time ARP has served up more or less the exact same album. Same mix of epics, fast rockers and powerful metal ballads and same arrangement and even song placements within each album. 9 tracks + intro…of course. Only the strength of individual songs changes and while this isn't a stand out as such, it isn't a letdown either. It's just more of the same.<br /> There really isn't much point analyzing each song here as you know what you are getting into. However, stand outs here are the free flowing rocker <font color="#ffff00">Run With The Wind</font> and the Zeppelinesque 9 minute epic <font color="#ffff00">Circle Of The Oath</font> and 7 minute <font color="#ffff00">Bridges To Nowhere</font>.<br /> In all the album plods just that little too much with some extra-long songs (another 9 minute track, 6 and 7 minute tracks too) and remains in tempo limbo through the second half. One for regular ARP and Gioeli fans, but in order to do something different, Axel needs an outside producer or change of band/vocalist to make things a little different for fans. I think it's time. </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">Another Night Of Passion</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">260052 </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/madmax-anothernightofpassion.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 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</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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> </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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>89%</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">Mad Max is another very consistent band out of Germany. Singer <b>Michael Voss</b> produces and sings all over the place, but always saves his best for the band he fronts alongside guitarist <b>Jurgen Breforth</b>.<br /> The band has modernized their sound over time, but never disappoint. On <font color="#00ffff">Another Night Of Passion</font> the guys use their earlier classic sound as a heavy reference, as reflected by the re-use of their most acclaimed album from the past.<br /> This is uptempo melodic hard rock with a strong European/German influence, but at a very high quality.<br /> The songs are largely uptempo, mostly pretty catchy and always performed with energy and intent. For a band to remain this hungry after more than 20 years alive is testament to those involved. Another winner of a release here for fans of European melodic hard rock. Certainly more impressive than the last <b>Michael Schenker</b> which also featured Voss on 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Pretty Maids</b> <font color="#ffffff">It Comes Alive</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">FRCD546 </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/prettymaids-itcomesalive.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> 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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> EU</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>88%</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">A terrific live album here from Danish hard rockers <b>Pretty Maids</b>. It sounds really well recorded and mixed very clearly. The performance is energetic and engaging and the rapport with the crowd lifts the enjoyment level just that little bit more. Thankfully this is a “real” live album, with no annoying fadeouts between tracks and interaction with the crowd left in. I hate live albums that take that personal feeling out to save room.<br /> As for song selection – this is absolutely a greatest hits kind of set list with a heavy dose of the band's last couple of superb albums (and highly acclaimed) <font color="#00ffff">Wake Up To The Real World</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Pandemonium</font>.<br /> The title track kicks off the album with a bang, with the killer melodic anthem <font color="#ffff00">Little Drops Of Heaven</font> now placed near the show's vital closing stages.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Savage Heart</font> sees the band slow down for a singalong (which sounds great) and isn't the only place where the crowd comes alive.<br /> Vocalist <b>Ronnie Atkins</b> commands the show from the outset and I must say, for fans of this band – this live release with accompanying DVD is an absolute must have. </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>Dynazty</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sultans Of Sin</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">StormVox 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/dynazty-sultansofsin.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> Chris Laney</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> 2012</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Released:</b> SE</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.dynazty.com" target="new">Dynazty</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="195"> <div align="center"><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="8"><b>90%</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">Here's another killer new band out of, yes…Sweden, and yes, they are here to impress. You can safely include these guys in with the likes of <b>H.E.A.T, Crazy Lixx, Wig Wam, Crashdiet</b> – the new era of bands using classic era artists as their influence and trying to bring back the best of yesterday mixed with the updated sounds of today.<br /> This album has the best of those bands, but a tougher sound bringing in comparisons to the likes of <b>Skid Row, Motley Crue</b> and even <b>Dio</b>. They rock harder and sleazier than <b>H.E.A.T.</b>, but have that melodic quality and some great anthemic choruses alongside the bang your head epics.<br /> This is their third album and is produced by the great <b>Chris Laney</b> – so you can throw some of his influences in here also – especially with his bone crunching production style.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Come Alive</font> sounds like Golden era Dio while <font color="#ffff00">Raise Your Hands</font> is almost a perfect <b>Gotthard</b> song in the style of <font color="#ffff80">Lift U Up</font> (but heavier). Anthems continue with the fast moving <font color="#ffff00">Land Of Broken Dreams</font> and the intense <font color="#ffff00">More Than A Man</font> (great vocal over the chorus). <font color="#ffff00">Love Junkie</font> is pure Motley sleaze.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">The One To Blame</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Falling</font> are equally as heavy, but try a more emotional tack. <font color="#ffff00">Back Again</font> is a monster ballad with a huge chorus that any of the above bands would be thrilled to include as their own.<br /> The album concludes with a double dose of hard rock with kick your ass attitude.<br /> <br /> Another week, another great Swedish hard rock album to check out. There are a few pretenders out there, but <b>Dynazty</b> aren't one of them and this is another of those worthy albums for music lovers that have enough money to spread the love around all these great albums right now. </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/valentine-atributetoqueen.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Valentine</font> – <font color="#00ffff">A Tribute To Queen</font></b> – There aren't many people I'd listen to covering <b>Queen</b>. One such person who is uniquely talented and tuned into that sound is Dutch star <b>Robby Valentine</b>. Finally, after years of imitating the band, he finally pays tribute to them over a full album. Taking mostly from more obscure tracks from the 70s era, he reproduces the sound, production and vocal style of the band almost perfectly. But in doing so, he has created more of a copy than a tribute and for that reason; I can appreciate the record, but aren't sold on it. For die-hards only. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/imperialstateelectric-popwar.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Imperial State Electric</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Pop War</font> – Sound Pollution</b> – Imperial State Electric are a Swedish rock outfit that play a sort of blend of retro punk rock and contemporary European pop with touches rockabilly and power pop/rock. Whatever the mix, it's awful. There's a little <b>Cheap Trick</b> in there and some <b>Clash</b> and whatever else. Either way I hate it. The prediction has a retro looseness to it that sounds cheapo and the vocals are painful to listen to. Just not my cup of tea (or cup of anything else) and not for anyone that like their pop/rock or metal served straight up. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/dirtylooks-icu.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Dirty Looks</font> – <font color="#00ffff">I.C.U.</font> – FnA Records</b> – This FnA Records released Dirty Looks record has been out sometime now, almost 2 years actually, but as I'm taking a look back at some of the label's past releases – here's a small review. ICU is as solid as one could ask for and is a 100% in your face, no bullshit hard rock record. It's pure <b>AC/DC</b> style bar room hard rock, with vocals to match. Heavy, unrelenting and designed to be played as loud as human ear drums can take. In other words – pretty good. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/rockcityangels-midnightconfessions.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Rock City Angels</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Midnight Confessions</font> – FnA Records</b> – I loved the Rock City Angels debut album. A 3-sided LP no less. But their bluesy (<b>Guns N Roses</b> without the screaming or the anger) debut was original and captivating at the time. And it still sounds fresh today. Sadly the band didn't make it past that debut, but there were other songs recorded in demo form that haven't seen the light of day officially until now. <b>FnA Records</b> are at the helm of this 15 track compilation of 1989-1992 tracks.<br /> I'm in two minds about this release. Mainly because it sounds nothing like the more polished and organized debut. The so obviously raw material finds vocalist Bobby Durango missing the power of a fully produced track and the fact three different line-ups recorded these working demos for Geffen means that the sound is varied to say the least.<br /> For outsiders, I wouldn't recommend going anywhere near this. But for fans of the RCA debut, I would say this is worth checking out and has value as a collector's piece. There are some hidden gems here that no doubt would have sounded great as a second album for Geffen. Damn you Nirvana! </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/stwarren-returntohonestplanet.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">St. Warren</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Return To Honest Planet</font> – FnA Records</b> – St. Warren is basically brothers <b>Brij St. Warren</b> - Lead Vocals, Piano, Keyboards, Guitar and <b>Brad St. Warren</b> – Lead, rhythm, acoustic guitars. The guys were on the verge down in Florida before the grunge plague took out the melodic music industry. There are some promising tunes gathered here – their second collection of FnA Records, but generally speaking the demo quality is hard to listen to and I don't rate the lead vocals here that highly. I haven't heard the original demo collection, but I'd have to say check that out first. This isn't the best example of vault classic-era material I have heard. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/saadams-unearthed.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">S.A. Adams</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Unearthed</font> – FnA Records</b> – Who is S.A. Adams? No idea, but after listening to this he's now on my 'avoid for life' list. Liner notes says he went on to form <b>The Fury</b> and appeared at the 2002 Bang Your Head festival? But onto this album…this is horrendous! This collection of unreleased tracks from 1986 highlight the fact there is a good reason why some artists never make household names. This punky hard rock collection boasts only one claim to fame. Drummer <b>Mike Portnoy</b> is the man behind the kit, but not that you can tell. The tommy gun reputation of the beats and the shiteous quality of the whole drum sound makes you wonder. It's dirty, it's loud and obnoxious and it's utterly horrible. Avoid. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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>30%</b></font></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/philsoussan-noprotection.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Phil Soussan</font> – <font color="#00ffff">No Protection</font> – Puss In Blue/Favored Nations</b> – Originally part of the original <b>Beggars & Thieves</b> lineup, bassist, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer Phil Soussan has been busy doing sessions and turning out a couple of musically diverse solo albums. This, his second, is a more cohesive sounding record performed entirely by himself except for drums by <b>Gregg Bissonette</b> and a couple of guitar solo spots from <b>Howie Simon</b>.<br /> Musically this is a singer/songwriter album with a mix of rock/pop and other eclectic sounds, but all drawn together by some warm melodic vocals. The title track is the highlight, being not that far off a straight up AOR song. Extremely well produced and executed, it is perhaps more for fans of diversity in their music, but rewarding for those it suits. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/hollywoodburnouts-excessallareas.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Hollywood Burnouts</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Excess All Areas</font></b> – There are a whole swag of bands flowing out of Scandinavia and Europe right now, all clamoring to be the next hailed saviours of classic melodic hard rock/hair metal. Good news for fans is that several have genuine claims to the throne. Hollywood Burnouts aren't one of them. The music is ok, but more clichéd than some of the competition trying to stand out more and the production is a whole world away from anything you could describe as world class. It's muddy and hollow and then there's the lead singer. Not vocals I would describe as particularly impressive. The guys have the old school sound in their sights, but not enough here lines up for them to play any real meaningful part in the MHR revival. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/beautifulbeast-adultorientedcandy.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Julian Angel</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Beautiful Beast</font> – GTO Entertainment</b> – It's hard to take any album seriously when there's a glammed up dude on the pinkish cover art, preparing himself for what I can only hope is blow job of the year. Thankfully the blonde lass' face is not shown, so she can be spared the embarrassment of being associated with such a shit CD cover. Anyway, undoing the zipper to the musical package reveals the “dude” is lead vocalist/guitarist <b>Julian Angel</b>. This is his album of glam-tastic 80s hard rocking cuts, designed to take us back to the glory days of cruising the boulevard with the top down and the hair blowing in the wind.<br /> In some ways he does just that though. And compared to some other albums of a similar ilk, it is pretty well produced (and mixed by Rolf Munkes). The songs are pretty commercial and likeable and there are some decent choruses here to hang your glam on. Song titles such as <font color="#ffff00">Ride With The Wild One, Juvenile Affair, Wild Tonight</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Singer And Guitarist In A Hard Band</font> should lay out what this album is all about. Check it out if it sounds like your thing. It's not as bad as it looks. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table bgcolor="#000000" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="15%"><img alt="" height="125" src="/files-archive/reviews/wallnervain.jpg" width="125" /></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#000000" width="70%"><font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"><b><font color="#b11b1c">Wallner/Vain</font> – <font color="#00ffff">Wallner/Vain</font> – Indie</b> – Another day, another horrible CD cover. But thankfully there is more under the hood than what can be seen up front in this case. Guitarist Will Wallner and vocalist Vivian Vain have created a straight forward, but quality melodic metal record. I'm quite impressed with the production quality and the whole musical a package. Guests included on the album are no less than <b>Carmine Appice, Vinny Appice, Brian Tichy, Rudy Sarzo, Tony Franklin, Jimmy Bain</b> and <b>Tony Carey</b>! Some serious money has been spent on this release and it shows….at least until the vocals kick in. Those are for me the weak spot within the album.<br /> On the positive side, the album boasts a tight rhythm section, some skillful soloing and riffing from Wallner and a generally high quality of songs. I'm not so enamored with the lead vocals, but thankfully there are a lot of extended musical passages to enjoy. </font> <table bgcolor="#fdfee2" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> </table> <font color="#ffffff" face="tahoma" size="2"> </font></td> <td align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="15%"> <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> </tbody> </table> </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>Mark Spiro</b> <font color="#ffffff">It's A Beautiful Life</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">AOR Heaven</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/markspiro-itsabeautifullife.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 Spiro</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 41</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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/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.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="#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>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>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"><b>Mark Spiro</b> returns from his self-imposed exile to deliver his first album in 7 years. Where does time go? I had concluded that Spiro was done with recording and this business after a cancer scare earlier last decade, but here he is.<br /> And he pretty much takes up where he left off last time around, delivering his softly sung John Waite style vocals over a mix of dreamy AOR/pop and Westcoast tunes so light and fluffy that they make Air Supply seem like Dream Theater.<br /> This is a very simple singer/songwriter release with Mark's usual blissful style of vocal narration and chorus harmonies. I imagine this would be a no-brainer for most fans of Spiro. I include myself in that category, but I'm not completely sold on this particular release.<br /> The whole album has a couple of flaws – the processed nature of the lead vocals and the heavy reliance on programming. Spiro takes credit for all music and vocals on here and there isn't a real drum to be heard throughout, not to mention a lot of other programmed samples and effects added in.<br /> All in all it's a little too much pop and a little too safe for me. I prefer his earlier work for these reasons and for the fact that the songs here simply aren't as strong as in the past.<br /> I'm a dozen listens in and am not being drawn back for more apart from the need to get to know the album fully for review purposes.<br /> A welcome return, but not as strong as previous efforts by quite a margin.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Human Temple</b> <font color="#ffffff">Halfway To Heartache</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Escape 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/humantemple-halfwaytoheartache.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> Human Temple</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> 2012</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>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">Finland's melodic hard rockers <b>Human Temple</b> are back with album number 3 and pushing their music further than before. Not quite straight melodic rock, not quite progressive rock and not quite heavy enough to be called metal. Whatever you want to call it – it is classy stuff. But at the same time it has to appeal first. Fans of the band's first two albums will I think be united in praise for this opus. The stronger production and the increased urgency of the music are two traits that deserve to be recognized.<br /> Vocalist <b>Janne Hurme</b> has an appealing voice, especially for this material. It's not a world away from <b>Brother Firetribe's Pekka</b>.<br /> The album has a moody quality to it with some progressive elements (<font color="#ffff00">I Will Follow, Run Away, She Talks To Angels</font>); some more straight forward hard rock moments (<font color="#ffff00">Bleeding Through, Our World Our Time, Because Of You</font>) and some commercial melodic rock (<font color="#ffff00">Almost There, Like A Beat Of A Heart</font>).<br /> For the unfamiliar, <b>Human Temple</b> have that distinct quirky Scandinavian trait many others from the region have, but at the same time a very unique style that doesn't compare to any other band.<br /> I think it's the band's most consistent and strongest album to date and hopefully more folks into European melodic rock will take a look at this classy band.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>X-UFO</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Live Files</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">XMUS001</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/xufo-livefilesvol1.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> X-UFO</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 69 </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2011</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.x-ufo-co.uk" target="new">X-UFO</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>--</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">The 4 assembled former <b>UFO</b> members (<b>Laurence Archer, Danny Peyronel, Rocky Newton & Clive Edwards</b>) have been out gigging for a while now and have put out this live album in preparation for a studio album of new material later in 2012.<br /> The credentials here are not in question and given that the songs are all classic <b>UFO</b> tracks, nor is the material. And the recording of this show is also pretty strong. Nice and clear and a balanced mix of audience and band.<br /> So how are the performances? Well these guys could play this stuff in their sleep, so naturally it's spot on. They seem to have a natural chemistry and the enthusiasm of the audience is infectious, making this one of the more enjoyable live albums of recent times.<br /> Good honest, no messing around bluesy hard rock from some rock n roll survivors.<br /> I think <b>UFO</b> fans would be doing themselves a favor by checking out these former band alumni.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>BlancaWhite</b> <font color="#ffffff">A</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">A</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">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/blancawhite-resurgenceofrock.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> BlancaWhite</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> 2012</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.resurgenceofrock.com" target="new">BlancaWhite</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>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>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">I'm sure you've heard about this project by now. The guys have been working the PR trail pretty hard. The band features international attorney <b>Ken Savage</b> and brothers <b>Austin and Rick Schell</b>. They have tuned into the heyday or glory days of hard rock – the 80s – for inspiration and are joined by name vocalists <b>Paul Shortino, Terry Ilous, Jeff Paris</b> and <b>Lorraine Lewis</b> to deliver their message.<br /> Just what is the message? Well, the same one we here have all been living by for years now – that times may have changed and we're all getting older, but great music lives on.<br /> Of course I love the message and I love the energy and enthusiasm of these guys, but if we are honest, this isn't going to be the album to bring about any new interest in the genre. Why? Because it simply isn't that good.<br /> <br /> I've read a few pretty amazing reviews of this album, so it makes me feel even worse to deliver a little bit of reality here. But to my ears, there isn't anything here that stands out as a 'must have' moment. The production is average at best and in particular is missing any kind of sonic impact, especially with the atrocious drum sound.<br /> And to be frank again, the high profile lead vocal guests – in my humble opinion – do not deliver anywhere near their best efforts.<br /> <b>Terry Ilous</b> on <font color="#ffff00">Your Boyfriend Is Lame</font> is hardly recognizable and the <b>Jeff Paris</b> sung tracks <font color="#ffff00">One For The Ages</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Take Me Back</font> are both embarrassing for all concerned. He sounds awful here.<br /> This is very much a classic rock release – simple guitar based songs with some AC/DC and 70s Aerosmith influences. The songs are too long with 5 of the nine tracks coming in around 6 minutes or more.<br /> The band profile reads: <i>“They have produced exactly the sort of rock music that die-hard fans want to hear, and have spared no expense or effort to produce a world-class rock album.”</i><br /> Sorry, I just cannot agree with that statement at all. Once again, I love the passion of these guys and we're all in the same boat, but in 2012, production and performances need to be much better to make a real impact at retail. Sorry guys.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Red White & Blues</b> <font color="#ffffff">Shine</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/redwhiteandblues-shine.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> RW&B</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 52</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2011</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 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://theredwhiteandblues.com/" target="new">theredwhiteandblues.com</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">Two <b>Alfonzetti</b> fronted albums in one year? Yes please… This time vocalist Matti is paired with his former <b>Jagged Edge</b> band mate - guitarist <b>Myke Gray</b> for a blues based rock project.<br /> The two are a natural fit and this album is another fine example of Matti's vocal abilities and Myke's underrated guitar talent. The 50 minute, 14 track album is chock full of dirty rock n roll riffs and bluesy rhythm that <b>George Thorogood</b> would be proud of.<br /> This is simply a no-bullshit rock n roll record that straddles a line between bluesy <b>Black Crowes</b> style swagger and the more straight ahead British melodic rock of <b>Jagged Edge</b>.<br /> Production is great and the mix is really clear. Only 4 of the albums songs clock in at over 4 minutes, reinforcing the fact the music just immediately gets to the point.<br /> The songs are mostly uptempo, with a few mood changes interspersed throughout the record and just the one proper sentimental ballad.<br /> A really top notch guitar sound and the always brilliant vocals of <b>Matti Alfonzetti</b>. What more could you ask for. If you like your music with a little bluesy passion occasionally, this is a must get.</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Sunstorm</b> <font color="#ffffff">Emotional Fire</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">FRCD532 </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-emotionalfire.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> </font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> February 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" /></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>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">For me the last (second) <b>Sunstorm</b> album was the very pinnacle in <b>Joe Lynn Turner's</b> recording output. The songs were of the highest caliber and JLT delivered a knockout performance to make the <font color="#00ffff">House Of Dreams</font> one of 2009s essential melodic rock purchases. So with that I was hoping the bar would be raised even further here.<br /> While I will stop short of calling the album a disappointment, I do think it is a step backwards and certainly doesn't match the impact of the last album. And I rate the debut above this also, making this, the third album the weakest of the 3.<br /> That said – this is still a great sounding record of 80s influenced melodic rock/AOR with <b>Dennis Ward's</b> immaculate production still in effect and the collection of songs still delivering a few new gems.<br /> The only real issue as I see it, is the fact the song selection isn't as strong as last time around. On <font color="#00ffff">House Of Dreams</font> <b>The Martin Bros.</b> added a trio of knockout tracks and <b>Jim Peterik</b> added a couple of killers too.<br /> Here the songs are not as strong overall and they don't have as cohesive a feel either. The Martin Bros. only make one appearance – the closing ballad <font color="#ffff00">All I Am</font>, which is total class once again.<br /> Elsewhere <b>Robert Sall</b> co-writes perhaps the best track of all – the opening anthem <font color="#ffff00">Never Give Up</font>; while two <b>Michael Bolton/Dianne Warren</b> tracks bookend another killer moody anthem (and album highlight) <font color="#ffff00">Lay Down Your Arms</font> written by <b>Johan Stentorp</b>. The <b>Bolton/Warren</b> tracks are ok, but are more obviously dated than the tracks surrounding them. This is where that cohesive flow that albums need is lost.<br /> <b>Johan Stentorp (Time Gallery)</b> delivers another highlight with the dramatic rocker <font color="#ffff00">Torn In Half</font> and <b>Robert Sall</b> delivers for the second time with the moody <font color="#ffff00">The Higher You Rise</font>. Here again the songs are punctuated by <font color="#ffff00">Gina</font>, another 80s Bolton cover and a song with that obvious early 80s vibe. <b>Soren Kronqvist</b> delivers a couple of feel good melodic rockers to round 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 solid album that adds more value to the Sunstorm name and I can't see any reason why those fans of the first two won't add this to their collection. It may not be as strong a release as its predecessors, but Joe's voice and the melodic nature of the music still make a great match and there are plenty of highlights for fans of traditional melodic rock. Despite criticisms, the album is an enjoyable slice of retro 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> <a href="sunstorm.p3">Sunstorm</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="sunstorm-houseofdreams.p3">House Of Dreams</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Emotional Fire</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 (Schmidtic) Schmidt:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dennis Ward:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Justin Dakey:</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>JLT</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Sunstorm</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> Never Give Up <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Emotional Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lay Down Your Arms <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Wouldn't Know Love<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wish You Were Here<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Torn In Half <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gina<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Higher You Rise <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Emily<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Follow Your Heart<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All I Am <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>Michael Thompson Band</b> <font color="#ffffff">Future Past</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">FRCD542 </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/michaelthompsonband-futurepast.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> Larry King & Michael Thompson</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> February 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" /></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>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>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 the case of yet another album that has a monstrous legacy of just one album to live up to. But that legacy is some 20 years old and the debut <b>MTB</b> band album is so revered by fans that any follow-up now would surely not compete. And sure enough….it doesn't. But it's not a fair playing surface here. It is 20 years on and the <b>MTB</b> of 2012 is an entirely different line-up and most importantly, the vocals of the ultra-smooth and wonderful <b>Moon Calhoun</b> are not present.<br /> And therein lies the problem, you simply cannot compare the two albums or vocalists. The style is different here and the vocalist…well, he's at the complete other end of the spectrum to Moon. Whereas Moon was the ultimate smooth delivery man; vocalist here – <b>Larry King</b> – is as raspy and gruff as they come. Much in the vein of <b>Troy Reid</b> from Stranded. Not a bad thing at all – just different.<br /> <br /> If I had to pick – Moon is my preferred vocalist and I do think a few of the songs here are hindered by the gruffness in King's voice. It can grate when some smoothness would have gone a long way. But he is a capable vocalist and delivers a few gems here when it is his voice that helps convey the emotion of the song. This is indeed a conflicting release!<br /> Take the opening uptempo AOR anthem. <font color="#ffff00">High Times</font> is a great feel good rocker that gets the album off to a flying start.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Can't Be Right</font> has that great <b>Michael Thompson</b> guitar sound and some raspy <b>Chris Thompson</b> style vocals in the verse, but the gruffness in the chorus is a turn off for me.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Future Past</font> is far more appealing and melodic and <font color="#ffff00">When You Love Someone</font> is almost back to that smooth AOR of the debut.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Here I Am</font> is a terrific little anthem with a feel good hook and <font color="#ffff00">Beautiful Mystery</font> is almost a perfect melodic rock song. A wonderful feel good hook and instant chorus and smooth verse. If only there were a couple more tracks like this.<br /> <s>Eye In The Sky</s>, sorry <font color="#ffff00">Break Me Down</font> (where is Alan Parsons' writing credit?) is the third track in a 15 minute mid-album blast of melodic bliss. The chorus may be very familiar, but great song.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">End Game</font> is again too gruff on the vocals for me; as is <font color="#ffff00">Gypsy Road</font>, which at least features a more melodic chorus.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Can't Miss</font> doesn't work for me as I'm too fond of the original from the debut. No need to re-cut it here really.<br /> Closing the album is <font color="#ffff00">Fight For Your Life</font> which is a mid-tempo rock track….its ok, but the chorus doesn't match expectations. </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 has a few fillers and a couple of tracks where the vocals just don't work for me, but on the flipside, there are at least 4 or 5 tracks that are absolutely superb. So it's a release that for me had huge potential, but doesn't quite deliver – at least not consistently across the whole album. I felt much the same about the <b>TRW</b> release, which also featured Thompson. </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> MTB<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Future Past</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>Larry King:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Michael Thompson:</b> Guitars & Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Khari Parker:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alan Berliant:</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 Thompson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Larry King</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> High Times <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Be Right<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Future Past<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> When You Love Someone <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Here I Am <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beautiful Mystery <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Break Me Down <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> End Game<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Gypsy Road<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Miss 2012<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fight For Your Life<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>House Of Shakira</b> <font color="#ffffff">HoS</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-hos.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> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.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="#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">If each new album represents a new chapter in a band's story, then a change of line-up represents a new volume. <font color="#00ffff">HoS</font> is the beginning of Volume 2 for the popular Swedish melodic rock act.<br /> I have a soft spot for these guys. Their debut came out about the same time I launched this website and I've been following ever since and have rarely disappointed. There's a couple of albums that didn't match predecessors, but all things considered, the band's output has been consistently strong and they are one of this scene's great melodic rock acts.<br /> So now to the changes – out goes original vocalist <b>Andreas Eklund</b> along with <b>Per Schelander</b> (who still helped to pen 4 of tracks on offer) and <b>Tony Andersson</b>.<br /> In comes new vocalist <b>Andreas Novak</b> (solo/Mind's Eye) and <b>Basse Blyberg</b> (bass) and <b>Martin Larsson</b> (drums). As expected with such substantial changes comes a new sound, but it isn't a world away from what you'd expect from the guys.<br /> I think <font color="#00ffff">HoS</font> is a heavier and somewhat rawer album, where guitars are center stage and really punching through the songs and the revered harmony vocals of the past are given less emphasis.<br /> Not all HOS fans are going to like the changes. I'll be blunt in my assessment there. But there is plenty to like here, including a few monster anthems that longtime fans will recognize as trademark HOS songs.<br /> Elsewhere there is a revitalized energy that makes this album one of the band's hardest rocking albums ever.<br /> <br /> <b>Track By Track:</b><br /> Immediately the opening track <font color="#ffff00">Brick Wall Falling</font> sets up the new sound – harder and more urgent and more directly driven by guitars, but the chorus is classic HOS.<br /> Interestingly the band place perhaps the most challenging track of the new album up next. <font color="#ffff00">Changes In Mind</font> has a hard retro vibe and isn't overly melodic until you really get to know it.<br /> Next up <font color="#ffff00">Carry My Load</font> is nothing but glorious harmony filled classic HOS.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Zodiac Maniac</font> turns back to that heavier retro sound again with a stabbing guitar riff that adds menace.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Fractions Of Love</font> is perhaps the song of the album if you are totally old-school in thinking. A bit fat melodic rock anthem with some terrific vocals and harmonies.<br /> I've never heard HOS sound like they do in the AC/DC styled stormer <font color="#ffff00">Midnight Hunger</font>. Great hard rocking song with a lot of energy and strong chorus, albeit in that stripped back style.<br /> The moody mid-tempo hard rock of <font color="#ffff00">Endless Night</font> takes a few listens to get into. Another challenging track that pays dividends, but I fear some fans of HOS might not adjust.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">All Aboard!</font> is a feel good hard rocker with a punchy guitar riff and much bigger chorus than you'd expect.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">What Goes Around…</font> is another typical HOS melodic mid-tempo track that should appeal to all.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">I'll Be Gone</font> is another one of those tracks that doesn't offer up an instant melody, but gets better on repeated lessons. Not the strongest chorus of the album however.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Voice In The Void</font> reminds me of Andreas solo more than it does HOS. Nice layered chorus and one perhaps for fans of Andreas and <b>Mind's Eye</b>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Lost In Transition</font> is the only real slow/ballad track on the album. No real chorus here, just a slow haunting song with acoustic guitars in control until a long slow electric solo closes the track. Really cool.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Out Of My Head</font> closes the album in rocking retro style. Almost a Queen-esque sound here and short and sweet. </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 big changes to the lineup has ushered in a new era for HOS. A new harder sound and more direct production style. I think the album stands on its own two feet as either a new start or an extension to the HOS legacy, meaning that I see it as open to new fans as well as old. It may be a left turn, but the guy are still on the right road. A very solid 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> Lint<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> On the Verge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> III<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> First Class<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Retoxed<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> HoS</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>Mats Hallstensson, Anders Lundström:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Martin Larsson:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Basse Blyberg:</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><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Andreas Novak</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> Brick Wall Falling <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Changes In Mind<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Carry My Load <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Zodiac Maniac<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fractions Of Love <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Midnight Hunger <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Endless Night<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All Aboard! <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What Goes Around… <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I'll Be Gone<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voice In The Void<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lost In Transition <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Out Of My Head<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>Sonic Station</b> <font color="#ffffff">Sonic Station</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">FRCD544 </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/sonicstation.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> Alexander Kronbrink</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> February 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" /></font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Musical Style:</b> Westcoast/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>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>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>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'm not a fan of being critical. I like to try and keep things positive whenever possible as I know how much work, time, money and heartache goes into making any record.<br /> But I must make recommendations here for the benefit of those looking to find music that will appeal to their personal taste.<br /> And that's what this album is all about. Personal taste. This album has a couple of truly great slick AOR numbers, but a whole bunch of other sickly sweet pop/Westcoast numbers that simply don't appeal to me in any way, rather driving me to the skip button.<br /> The project is the baby of Swedish songwriting/guitarist <b>Alexander Kronbrink</b>. Joining him are 4 different singers (3 male, 1 female), giving the album and back and forth feel im not generally a fan of.<br /> The opening track <font color="#ffff00">Love's Gonna Show The Way</font> is a very catchy soft-AOR-lite anthem that appealed pretty instantly. The <b>Marika Willstedt</b> sung <font color="#ffff00">I Wish I Could Lie</font> is also more AOR than anything else and quite likable.<br /> When horns make a passionate appearance on the soft/sweet pop of <font color="#ffff00">Hold On To Me</font> my interest starts to wane.<br /> The uptempo AOR of <font color="#ffff00">You Have To Let Me Go</font> (with Marika again) is more guitar driven; but then its followed by another snoozefest.<br /> Best track of the album is again the female fronted AOR anthem <font color="#ffff00">Running Through The Night</font>.<br /> After that I just don't find the last 4 songs appealing. The slow songs are just too slow and otherwise the album has this “niceness” about it that is just too fluffy and inoffensive for my tastes. </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 – nice. Background music at dinner or late at night perhaps, but not for use on long stretches of highway. This is Teflon smooth for fans of soft Westcoast pop and AOR-ultra lite. Smooth production and accomplish performances, but too soft to be a big name in this scene. </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> Sonic Station</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>Marika Willstedt, Kristoffer Fogelmark, Magnus Bäcklund, Tove Lo:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alexander Kronbrink:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Aron Mellergårdh, Thern Pettersson, Niklas Almgren:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Henrik Linder, Erik Metall, Kristofer Sundström, Johan Ivansson, Johan Hansén-Larson:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Jonathan Fritzén, Marika Willstedt, David Larson, Alexander Kronbrink:</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>Westcoast</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> Intro<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love's Gonna Show The Way <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> I Wish I Could Lie <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hold On To Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You Have To Let Me Go<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Most Beautiful Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Running Through The Night <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Never Let The Sunshine Die<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> My Last Refrain<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Love You More<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Reasons<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>Mr. Big</b> <font color="#ffffff">Live From The Living Room</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">FRCD543 </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/mrbig-livefromthelivingroom.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> Mr. Big</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 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> 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>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>--</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">Like day follows night, so too does a live album follow a <b>Mr. Big</b> release.<br /> Not a scrap of difference between this and the version released in Japan late last year, and my view hasn't changed one bit either. So my original comments and score stand.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Live From The Living Room</font> is a 10 track release taken from a live TV performance the band gave to celebrate their return and the pending release of their <font color="#00ffff">What If…</font> album.<br /> I really like what they guys have done here – both with the new songs and the classics. All have been stirred up just a little with the acoustic format and added strings in places (all performed live on the night).<br /> Fresh, energetic, captivating. The audience is enthusiastic and the band is super tight.<br /> What's great about performances like this is the absolute enjoyment you can take from hearing such brilliant musicianship on show, and how you can hear those extra nuances come out that you hadn't heard before in songs.<br /> The extra passion of <font color="#ffff00">Undertow</font> and the always brilliant <font color="#ffff00">Take Cover</font>; the energy of <font color="#ffff00">Still Ain't Enough For Me</font> and the everlasting youth of a song such as <font color="#ffff00">Voodoo Kiss</font>.<br /> But I can't hold in my disappointment that the original full 90 minute performance hasn't made it to a 2CD set. The 10 tracks featured here seems a little short on running time and knowing there is more out there leaves fans frustrated. Even 15 tracks would have been better.</font><br />   <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> Mr. Big<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Lean Into It<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bump Ahead<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Hey Man<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="mrbig-getoverit.p3">Get Over It</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="mrbig-actualsize.p3">Actual Size</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> What If...</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>Eric Martin:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Paul Gilbert:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Pat Torpey:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Billy Sheehan:</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>Mr. Big</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>All Melodic Hard Rock Fans</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> Undertow<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still Ain't Enough for Me<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Far As I Can See<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Voodoo Kiss<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Take Cover<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Around The World<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stranger In My Life<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All The Way Up<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> To Be With You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nobody Left To Blame</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Van Halen</b> <font color="#ffffff">A Different Kind Of Truth</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Interscope</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/vanhalen-adifferentkindoftruth.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 Shanks/Ross Hogarth/Van Halen</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 50</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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> 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.van-halen.com" target="new">Van Halen</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>98%</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>98%</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">The monkey is off their back. They did it. It only took three attempts and a decade or so, but something most thought would never happen – a new studio album with original vocalist <b>David Lee Roth</b> – has been completed, delivered and actually released.<br /> And what's even better – it's damn good!<br /> <b>David Lee Roth</b> returned to the <b>Van Halen</b> fold in 1996 long enough to record two acclaimed new studio tracks before things went pear-shaped. There were additional attempts to make new music in secret in 2000 and again 2006. In 2007 Dave officially rejoined and toured into 2008 with the band before retiring again to figure out what was next.<br /> And 'next' was to be the only move the band could make. The only move fans would let them make. After 3 years of album making rumors, the news it was happening finally settled somewhere into 'fact' during 2010.<br /> Without any real insight from the band thus far, how this album was actually and eventually made will, I think, remain an eternal mystery in the same realms as <i>'how did the pyramids of Giza get built'</i> or <i>'what exactly makes those crop circles'</i>?<br /> The <b>Van Halen</b> trio (<b>Ed, Al</b> and <b>Wolfgang</b>) seemingly wrote and recorded during 2010 with <b>Ross Hogarth</b>, while 2011 sessions were helmed by <b>John Shanks</b>, then mixed and mixed again by Hogarth. Sadly the album's liner notes give no further insight into what, when and how.<br /> <b>David Lee Roth</b> was long rumored to be recording his vocals elsewhere and no evidence has been submitted to suggest the guys made this record in an old-school, all-for-one in-the-studio team environment.<br /> Whatever they had to do to get it done I guess is ok, as the result sounds like a team. It sounds like a <b>Van Halen</b> record and is something the band's original fans have been waiting since <font color="#00ffff">1984</font> for.<br /> Further conjecture over the making of the album is pointless without any further insight, so it is perhaps more constructive to just look at the result. And let's face it – that's all we really care about as fans.<br /> <br /> <font color="#00ffff">A Different Kind Of Truth</font> is heavy. It's energetic. It's bold. And it delivers. And none of those things were a given. How many of us doubted the guys could recapture the best of their past and infuse it with new energy? Me for one…I wanted this to be good….I wanted it to be great. But I just couldn't see how it could be given the dysfunctional nature of the band. But I need not have worried. And it seems the fanbase has also been really invigorated by how good this album is.<br /> Every track has its place and there's not a dull moment to be had. No filler! Not one single track. Even with each of my favourite <b>Van Hagar</b> albums, there was normally one song I didn't buy into. But not here. An nor there should be after such a long wait!<br /> <br /> The album is surprisingly heavy, very upbeat and has energy beyond description. This is not a 'chorus' album. And I guess that might be the one point that some fans or casual VH listeners might grasp on to and bitch about. But the old school VH fans know better. <b>Van Halen</b> never were a chorus band until they started evolving with 1984 and then into the <b>Sammy Hagar</b> era.<br /> <b>Hagar</b> brought a different style of songwriting to the band – the anthemic choruses came, but at the same time, other Dave fuelled elements departed. Early <b>Van Halen</b> was about swagger. It was about attitude and it was about groove. It was about smart ass lyrics and free flying guitar parts and songs that chopped and changed without notice.<br /> Fans of <b>Van Hagar</b> might feel a little alienated, but you know what….that would normally include me. I love Dave solo, but for me it was always the passion and direction of the Hagar era albums that appealed to me like few other bands did. But with that said, I'm so appreciating what has been delivered here and my admiration of <b>David Lee Roth</b> has never been higher.<br /> <br /> This album is more a reflection of the classic vibe the band had in their early days. And why not – at least 7 of the album's tracks were molded at least in part from the band's first demos in the mid-late 70s. The band reached into the past to bridge the gap between Dave fronted records. It was a move that could have backfired, but it works.<br /> Here today the songs sound as fresh as they possibly could be. <b>David Lee Roth's</b> vocals have been carefully molded into the groove of the album - it's the best I've heard him sing since <font color="#00ffff">Eat Em And Smile</font>. And the Van Halen's are simply stunning. And to top it all off - ADKOT features a monster sound and a clear mix. The guitars have real and immediate impact and the music is a finely balanced mix of old classic familiar <b>Van Halen</b> along with and some fresh and recent Van Halen too.<br /> It is everything Dave Halen fans have been waiting since 1984 for, but I think there's plenty there too for Van Hagar fans. For Van Halen fans, period.<br /> <br /> <font color="#00ffff">A Different Kind Of Truth</font> is the album <b>Van Halen</b> had to make. Not only did they have to put the failed <font color="#00ffff">Van Halen 3</font> album behind them, they had to deal with the ghost of <b>Sammy Hagar</b> and the incredibly unpopular decision to move on without founding member <b>Michael Anthony</b>. Given the choice, I don't think any fan would vote otherwise than for Mike's return, but it simply wasn't going to happen.<br /> Yes, he is missed and his backing vocals are something that this album could have further benefitted from.<br /> But one must accept this decision out of fairness for his replacement – Eddie's son <b>Wolfgang</b>. Wolf was placed in the unenviable position of replacing an iconic member of an iconic band and feigning off credibility issues due to how he got the 'job'. But looking at it without emotion, what father wouldn't love to play alongside his son?<br /> If <b>Wolfgang</b> has struggled to pay his dues up until this point, I'd say that he's now ready to stand on his own merit. There are no album credits either way – all songs (presumably written and performed) by <b>VanHalen/Roth</b>.<br /> So we must presume that's Wolf on bass and if so as I believe it is, he totally rips on this album. The bass presence is huge and album's almighty swagger is thanks in part to those bass parts and the rhythm section as a whole.<br /> <br /> <b>Alex Van Halen</b> proves once again what an integral part of the Van Halen sound his drumming is. He is all over this album with more drum fills and slamming beats than I think I have ever heard from him, at least since the <font color="#00ffff">5150</font> album anyway. Totally immense and the recording of his parts is also amongst the best I have heard. There's a raw/live energy to the whole record, but the drumming in particular just explodes with life here.<br /> <b>David Lee Roth's</b> part in this album must also be spotlighted. He may not make much sense in real life, but on record, the clarity is all-so-clear. He was part of the classic <b>Van Halen</b> sound and to recreate that, the band was to have to walk a fine line between recapturing the old (some 30 years back now!) without sounding dated, out of place or irrelevant and also try and inject some freshness to his approach. And I think they have successfully done that.<br /> The lyrics on this album are pure and classic Dave. There's no one like him on Earth and not for the first time I am really appreciating his take on life. Vocally I am also very impressed. However, I do believe that Dave's vocals may have held this album up as rumored. He has a mammoth job of keeping up with the band here and if it proved hard to achieve, I am not surprised.<br /> But however his vocals were recorded and crafted into the mix, I applaud the result. Whether he's growing along in a more spoken word style or striving for some impossibly high style licks, his efforts are convincing and match the music – even when the band moves out of classic VH style and moves into a more contemporary sphere.<br /> <br /> That brings us to <b>Eddie Van Halen</b>, the man himself. Well, whatever myth you believe or whatever state of mind you think he might be in; the man can rock. Eddie sounds more alive now than I have heard him in years. Well…it's been years since we last heard him on record. But he totally delivers on this album. Eddie is a man possessed on this album. It is his guitar work that makes this album what it is. Let's face it – if he wasn't on-song, it wouldn't matter what anyone else delivered.<br /> But he is…on fire…and more. This is a smoking display of guitar riffs and tricks and importantly – just a beautiful tone throughout. Eddie moves between the old, the middle ground and the new with ease and merges it all together for a seamless, cohesive all-out assault on the senses. His soloing is beautiful, the riffs totally in your face and the structure of the songs maximizes the value of the guitar in each track. One of my favourite guitarists ever is back!<br /> <br /> The production is typically low on top-end tones, preferring to stick to a rawer, live feel that at times reminds me of the <font color="#00ffff">For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge</font> sonic – an album that strangely enough was anything but raw or live-in the-studio.<br /> The album mixes classic early <b>Van Halen</b> with parts of the <b>Van Hagar</b> catalogue and even a little <font color="#00ffff">Van Halen 3</font>, which is probably down to the own natural evolution of the band's sound when not reverting to the old demos used in part on the album.<br /> And even when these original 70s tracks have been reworked, they are reworked into a contemporary vibe and with energy to match the rest of the album.<br /> <br /> <b>Track by Track:</b><br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Tattoo</font> – the song that told the world the band was back, but the world wasn't convinced! And neither was I. Fun yes, but standing on its own, somewhat unconvincing. Who knew that the most commercial and perhaps weakest track of the alum would be the ideal single and lead track? I still find it an odd kind of opening track, but placed up-front it does get it out of the way and it does have its place. I love the verse hook for example and the solo is still cool. Anywhere else on the album and the momentum of the pounding energy might have been ruptured. The song was reinvented from the original demo called <i>Down In Flames</i>, but to me doesn't sound like an old school number at all. It's also the only song with any hint of keyboards.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">She's The Woman</font> – a song that closely matches the original demo of the same name kicks the album into a higher gear and immediately signals the band are here with a message. It has a great presence and a dirty riff to kick it off. A simple chorus in typical Van Roth style. Heavy groove and a sweet instrumental bridge into the solo and a pounding rhythm section. EVH states unequivocally – I'm back!<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">You And Your Blues</font> – The first of the 'new' compositions and one that for me merges the sound of Van Hagar and Van Roth. The chorus is classic era and the verse and that dark, dirty guitar riff could have come straight off <font color="#00ffff">Balance</font>. I love the intro and the move into a big sonic blast. Dave sounds amazing. Classic VH meets darker dirty style like <font color="#ffff80">Humans Being</font> or <font color="#ffff80">From Afar</font> even. A monster song and fast solo there, some big harmonies and generally a cool anthemic blast. Alex's drum sound is killer and really drives the song.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">China Town</font> – What a classic! Shreds from the first note and then BAM BAM BAM, the drums bang in and hit overdrive in a triple-timed frenzied rush. Fast and furious folks. A short Dave style chorus (typical throughout the album) gives minimal respite from the onslaught. The guitar sound is more like <font color="#00ffff">Balance</font> to these ears. Furious solo and drum flurry then back to a steady old school Dave, before the song finishes exactly as it started.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Blood And Fire</font> – Another favourite of mine if I had to pick them. The style feels old school, but the sound is more contemporary. It's a cool blend. And the fast pace of the album continues. A simple, but instantly memorable chorus and some nice heavy riffing around the song. Has a <font color="#00ffff">1984</font> feel to it, especially with the guitar picking. Surprise melodic bridge intro some tasty picking and a blazing heavy solo! Feels like the tempo picks up even more as it goes, yet it doesn't in reality. Apparently a left over demo from the <font color="#00ffff">1984</font> album called <i>Ripley</i> – it makes perfect sense.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Bullethead</font> - Fast and furious again and WTF was that guitar intro??!!! Another old 70s track reworked in relative comparison with the original. Absolutely furious tempo and riffing throughout and another stand out solo. Alex goes mad on drums and the bass sizzles along with intent and real groove. A simple fast one word chorus - classic Dave. But heavy and fast! Song includes the album's title in the lyrics. Fast, hard rocking fun.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">As Is</font> – I'm loving this tune too, despite that bizarre count-in! This is one brutally heavy riff. Perhaps the heaviest riff I have ever heard from Eddie. And once that extended intro disappears, it's more double-timed hard rock fury. This super-fast rocker has a <font color="#ffff80">Hot For Teacher</font> vibe. How old are these guys again? Great little chorus and a big BIG sound. Strong harmony vox from DLR - who continues to sound incredible. What a solo! Fast furious shredding before diving back into a <b>Metallica</b> heavy riff and then a <font color="#ffff80">Hot For Teacher</font> style spoken bridge. And the close out is amazing. Guitars everywhere and supremely dark and heavy.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Honeybabycutiedoll</font> – This is one of those twisted musical interlude tracks that Van Halen just has to have. And normally drives me nuts…or to the skip button at least. But this is just so good. The first half of the song tries to be normal, with Dave talking over a hard riff and a short melodic chorus popping up a couple of times. But from then on it's all Eddie. This could be the most bizarre guitar sound I've ever heard from EVH. Another uptempo track, a real groover. And boy, those riffs are heavy.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">The Trouble With Never</font> – is yet another uptempo rocker featuring more classic DLR lyrics and a chorus that has those wonderful backing vocals back again. Dave is having a blast and the groove of this album is unreal. This is a big commercial rocker that follows the last track perfectly. I could see this as a single.<br /> <br /> <font color="#ffff00">Outta Space</font> – this is another reworked 70s track, originally titled <i>Let's Get Rocking</i>. The riff is so familiar when you play it, but the rest of the song has a new life. That guitar sound and drum pattern is so old school VH. Dave takes the vocal into a high range, nice to hear. Another slamming display of rhythm.<br /> <br /> Dave fans are going to love this. <font color="#ffff00">Stay Frosty</font> – is just brilliant and so Van Roth. An acoustic blues intro while Dave's quirky lyrics grab your attention. More spoken word stuff before...BAM!, the song turns ultra-heavy and launches into a monster groove. Mammoth close out with Alex going nuts on drums. Swagger and style you just can't manufacture.<br /> <br /> The last two songs have a very familiar feel. Both are reworked 70s demos (<i>Big Trouble</i> and <i>Put Out The Lights</i> respectively) and both just have that simple classic early Van Halen feel.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Big River</font> - More groove and lots of fantastic riffing. Dave goes for a big vocal again and the song is again pretty fast and in your face again. Simple chorus as is the norm. God the guitar sound is just HUGE!!!! Another great solo and a bit longer this time, mixing riffs and picking.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Beats Working</font> – Great way to close the album. A hard edged riff and matching drum beat. Fun rocker with more reminders of <font color="#00ffff">1984</font>. The longest track on the album at 5 minutes and more or less defies explaining!</font><br />   <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"> What can I say in closing that hasn't already been said? To those too lazy to read the whole thing – <b>Van Halen</b> are back, and bigger and heavier than could possibly have been imagined. The individual musical performances within this album are sublime and mesmerizing and despite the use of some older demos to create a foundation, the album sounds fresh and invigorating.<br /> <b>David Lee Roth</b> is on record stating: <i>"People want the reunion….No one will pay respect to what any of us do [musically] until we get the reunion out of the way."</i><br /> That's precisely it. They have now done that and done themselves, their fans and the <b>Van Halen</b> name proud. It needed to be good, thank God it's even better than expected.<br /> But where to from here? This might be the last <b>Van Halen</b> album….let's hope to hell it's not. It might be the last with Dave. Who knows. Whatever the future presents, at least they proved ALL critics wrong with this monster record.<br /> <br /> In 1995 the band released a killer song called <font color="#ffff80">Humans Being</font>. I loved it. I loved the album previous to it - <font color="#00ffff">Balance</font>. I couldn't wait to hear what was next. Now I know...<br /> <br /> <i>"When you turn on your stereo, does it return the favor?"</i> It does now Dave…it does now!</font><br />   <div align="center"><font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"><a href="vanhalen-adifferentkindoftruth.p3"><font color="#ffff00" face="helvetica" size="3">ADD YOUR OWN REVIEW! (Ratings out of 100)</font></a></font></div> <font color="#ffffff" face="helvetica" size="2"> </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> Van Halen<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Van Halen II<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Diver Down<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Women And Children First<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Fair Warning<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 1984<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> 5150<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> OU812<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Balance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="vanhalen-3.p3">Van Halen 3</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> A Different Kind Of Truth</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>David Lee Roth:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Eddie Van Halen:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Van Halen:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Wolfgang Van Halen:</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>ALL Van Halen fans.</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> Tattoo<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> She's The Woman<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> You And Your Blues <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> China Town <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blood And Fire <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bullethead <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> As Is <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Honeybabysweetiedoll<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Trouble With Never <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Outta Space <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Stay Frosty <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Big River<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Beats Workin'<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>Dario Mollo & Tony Martin</b> <font color="#ffffff">Third Cage</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">FRCD539 </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/mollomartin-thethirdcage.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> 49</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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.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>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">I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed the previous <b>Mollo/Martin</b> (The Cage) records until I gave this a few blasts. Italian guitarist <b>Dario Mollo</b> has updated the sound of past Cage records here, going for the darker, heavier and more contemporary vibe, but what hasn't changed is the quality of the performances and the menacing melodic metal tone that vocalist <b>Tony Martin</b> brings to the party.<br /> This took a few listens to get to know; with the initial heaviness mellowing a little once the melodies within became known.<br /> This is a 10 track, 50 minute “get to the point' album, with perhaps only one filler (I can't seem to warm to the mid-album track <font color="#ffff00">Can't Stay Here</font>).<br /> Other than that, the album delivers some quality traditional melodic metal like the opening intensity of <font color="#ffff00">Wicked World</font> and the darker <font color="#ffff00">Cirque Du Freak</font>.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Oh My Soul</font> has the feel of an epic while <font color="#ffff00">One Of The Few</font> offers up the album's most commercial moment.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Still In Love With You</font> is classic <b>Black Sabbath</b> and <font color="#ffff00">Don't Know What It Is About You</font> is also pretty commercial. The album ends in a 8 minute, slow metal epic. </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 stands up alongside the duo's past work and will be worth the investment for established fans of the brand and for fans of Martin himself. I'm not sure his voice is as strong as it once was, but it's still nice to hear him blast away here. Good stuff to kick off the year for melodic metal 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> <a href="thecage.html">The Cage</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="thecage2.p3">The Cage 2</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Third Cage</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>Dario Mollo:</b> Guitars, Bass, Keyboards<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Roberto Gualdi:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fulvio Gaslini:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dario Patti, Brian War:</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>The Cage</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> Wicked World <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Cirque Du Freak <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Oh My Soul <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> One Of The Few <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Still In Love With You<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Can't Stay Here<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Wardance<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Don't Know What It Is About You <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blind Fury<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Violet 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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Primal Fear</b> <font color="#ffffff">Unbreakable</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">FRCD540 </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/primalfear-unbreakable.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> Mat Sinner</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> 2012</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.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>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">No surprises in the style of old school melodic metal that <b>Primal Fear</b> is delivering. Screaming high pitch vocals and fast riffing with the obligatory overuse of double kick drums.<br /> Bruce Dickinson and <b>Iron Maiden</b> do it so well and get the most publicity for it, yet bands like Primal Fear do it equally as well – if not better – and achieve a lot of popularity in their German homeland. But internationally the band is still a rising force, despite being around 15 years.<br /> This new album sees them doing what they do best and exactly what is expected of them. Furious riffing, machine gun drumming and that big booming voice of <b>Ralf Scheepers</b>.<br /> I find myself short on words to describe this as it just doesn't need it. You already know what's in the box. All that is needed to be known is – are the songs any good and is it well produced.<br /> Yes and yes! This is a relentless onslaught of melodic metal and brazing vocals and solos that spans just on an hour, with only a couple of pauses in tempo.<br /> <font color="#ffff00">Metal Nation</font> and <font color="#ffff00">Where Angels Die</font> are both very commercial songs in relation to the rest of the album and <font color="#ffff00">Born Again</font> is the album's big metal ballad.<br /> The rest is rifftastic. </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 like what I'm hearing a lot. I do have to be in the mood for this kind of record, but the production is fantastic and the mix is nice and even, without any one element out doing another.<br /> The addition of guitarist Magnus Karlsson has boosted the sound further and metal fans are already well familiar with Ralf's big voice. Another winner for Primal Fear without doing anything too different from previous efforts. </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> Primal Fear<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Jaws Of Death<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Nuclear Fire<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Black Sun<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Devil's Ground<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <a href="primalfear-sevenseals.p3">Seven Seals</a><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unbreakable</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>Ralf Scheepers:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Alex Beyrodt, Magnus Karlsson:</b> Guitar<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Randy Black:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Mat Sinner:</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>Mat Sinner</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Magnus Karlsson</b><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>German 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> Unbreakable (Part1)<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Strike <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Give 'Em Hell<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Bad Guys Wear Black<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> And There Was Silence<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Metal Nation <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where Angels Die <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Unbreakable (Part 2) <font color="#ff0000">*</font><br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Marching Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Born Again<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Blaze Of Glory<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Conviction<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Night Of The Jumps (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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Beyond The Bridge</b> <font color="#ffffff">The Old Man And The Spirit</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">FRCD541 </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/beyondthebridge-theoldmanandthespirit.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> Beyond The Bridge</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Running Time:</b> 67</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> 2012</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</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>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 German outfit are 100% progressive hard rock/metal. Not much in the way of straight up melodic rock here, despite being on Frontiers. But the label hasn't made an error here – this is a high quality piece of progressive (and sometimes melodic) metal.<br /> The complex 11 track album (in 2 parts) clocks in around 70 minutes and maybe only 30 of that is spent with vocals. They are spread throughout the album, but the extended instrumental muscle flexing and complex progressive arrangements don't really leave much time for the usual verse/chorus type stuff here.<br /> And to be honest, I miss that. I miss it more so because there is some really impressive music in action here and the album sounds impeccably produced.<br /> This is a real hodgepodge of sounds. It is all over the show and doesn't make much sense on the first few listens (or anytime after that really!). I'm not seeing a lot of individual songs here to highlight.<br /> You have gruff male vocals (accented), sweet female vocals, spoken word male voices… But the music and performances really are excellent. </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 sounds amazing, the performances are intense and I can listen to this quite easily when in the mood, but it can also descend into 70 minutes of noise if you don't pay attention. </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 Old Man And The Spirit</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>Herbie Langhans, Dilenya Mar:</b> Vocals<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Peter Degenfeld:</b> Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Simon Oberender:</b> Keyboards, Guitars<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Fabian Maier:</b> Drums<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Dominik Stotzem:</b> Bass<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Christopher Tarnow:</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>European Progressive 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> The Call<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Apparition<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Triumph Of Irreality<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Spring Of It All<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> World Of Wonders<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Primal Demand<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Doorway To Salvation<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Struggle<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> The Difference Is Human<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> Where The Earth And Sky Meet<br /> <strong><big>·</big></strong> All A Man Can Do</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="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="6"><b>Lee Small</b> <font color="#ffffff">Jamaica Inn</font></font></td> <td align="right" bgcolor="#000000" width="25%"> <h4 class="term"><font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">Ecsape Music</font></h4> <font color="#cc2020" face="helvetica" size="4">ESM235 </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/leesmall-jamaicainn.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> 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> 51</font> <hr align="center" color="#000000" width="95%" /><font color="#000000" face="helvetica" size="2"> <strong><big>·</big></strong> <b>Release Date:</b> January 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> 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.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>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">Well this is different! Not what I was expecting after Lee's wonderful performance on the latest/last <b>Shy</b> album. His booming <b>Glenn Hughes</b> vocals were perfect for that album, and now, with a strange coincidence, Lee continues his Hughes-like voyage with a blues and soul filled solo album. Much in the vein of Hughes' own deviations on such albums as <font color="#00ffff">Feel</font> and <font color="#00ffff">Soul Mover</font>.<br /> Small really has a huge voice and again matches the passion of Hughes with some soul (<font color="#00ffff">The Captain's Quarters</font>) and funk (<font color="#00ffff">Black Bess</font>) as well as a little boogie rock n roll (<font color="#00ffff">Walk The Plank</font>). <font color="#00ffff">Dead Man Walking</font> is perhaps the pick of the album, with a soulful vocal to die for a nice little melodic riff running alongside it.<br /> What I hear here is a mix of <b>Richie Kotzen, Paul Rodgers, Jeff Paris</b> (his latter, non AOR material), <b>Stevie Salas</b> and of course, a huge dose of <b>Glenn Hughe</b>s.<br /> The album features <b>Martin Kronlund</b> on guitars (Gypsy Rose), proving he can adjust to any style necessary as well as <b>Imre Daun</b> on drums (Don Patrol, Gypsy Rose) and <b>Paul Bradder</b> on keyboards (Saracen). This is not a hard rock, AOR or melodic rock album. It is a bluesy, soulful solo album of relatively laid back compositions, but all sung with passion and charisma.<br /> Not for all fans of this site, but if the above artists are of interest, then I have no doubt that Lee's album can find a place in your heart also. </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 st-custom-button"><i class="fab fa-facebook"></i> Facebook <span class="badge count"></span></div><div data-network="googleplus" class="btn btn-success st-custom-button"><i class="fab fa-google"></i> Google <span class="badge count"></span></div><div data-network="email" class="btn btn-success st-custom-button"><i class="fa 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