|
|
HOT NEW REVIEWS
Blind Ego
'Preaching to the choir' (Gentle Art Of Music/Nineteen 73/Soulfood)
Last
year the RPWL fans were pleased with a new studio- and a new live album of
their favorite band, but also a great solo-CD of their vocalist YOGI LANG at
the end of 2019. Now it's time for a new BLIND EGO album, which is the
side-band/project of RPWL guitarist KALLE WALLNER. I have to say that 2020
couldn't start better for the Progrockfans out there, because the 4th BLIND EGO
album Preaching to the choir is a superb record that will please any
Progrockfan, although I am safe to say that even AOR/Melodic (Hard) Rockfans
will like this a lot, because it is very straight-ahead and melodic chorus orientated.
9 songs are included in total and from the very start until the end we get to
hear high quality music that for me personally is even better than RPWL. It is
definitely heavier and more uptempo (hard) rock based, with as mentioned some
instant hauting Melodic Rock ish choruses, in a way like THRESHOLD does, so
it's more in-your-face and a little less based on long instrumental passages.
In contrast to their earlier releases, which featured various lead singers,
this time around ex-AMEN RA vocalist SCOTT BALABAN sings all tracks and he does
a great job for sure! If we have a look at the absolute highlights on this
sensational album, we start with Burning alive, which is a fantastic uptempo
Progressive Melodic Rocker with a catchy chorus. Dark paradise is almost a pure
Melodic Rockballad as if JADED HEART and HOUSE OF LORDS joined forces! In exile
is as close to pure uptempo Melodic Hardrock you can get actually, an absolute
crowd winner here, but perhaps for the proggies out there one step too far removed
from prog I think. However, the overall feeling is still very proggy, so don't
get me wrong here, because especially during the first couple of tracks it is
pure Progrock, while the modern sounding Line in the sand is stretching the
overall sound to wider horizons musically speaking, and also the album closing
tracks Broken land and The pulse will absolutely wet the appetite of
progrockfans out there. Heading for the stars is midtempo THRESHOLD ish Melodic
Progrock, with a lovely chorus and a terrific guitarsolo, and together with The
pulse is basically defining the sound of BLIND EGO perfectly, which is a
mixture of the classic Progrocksound, Progmetal riffs and elements of Melodic
Hardrock (choruses). Highly recommended to anyone who likes high quality music,
but it surely must be in the hands of people who like their prog to sound a bit
heavier, more melodic and catchy with not too much freaking going on, like
THRESHOLD and MYRATH for example. Without a doubt, a contender for album of the
year 2020 and we have only just started! More info at: https://www.blind-ego.com/
The
first thing I noticed about the album of BIG AL STAGGS from Virginia, USA was
the fact that the legendary producer STACY HAYDON produced it and also played
guitar, bass and drums. Stacy produced one of the 80s AOR Classics, which was
of course the Canadian band SHERIFF. Anyway, fast forward to 2020, he helped
out vocalist BIG AL STAGGS on his CD Solo. The included music is catchy melodic
poprock, sounding quite modern, but also with a touch of classic 80s poprock in
the classic American tradition. There's also a touch of Powerpop/Punkrock
(WEEZER meets GREENDAY) to be heard here and there, while sometimes it all
reminds me a bit of PHIL VINCENT, yet less melodic rock based. Suicide and Your
car is the prize are some of the better tunes here, both catchy uptempo melodic
rockers, with a sorta ALICE COOPER kinda way of singing, while the poppy Shine
in my moon has radio potential and shows Big Al singing quite well and reserved
actually. Overall, the sound of the CD is very independent pop/rock based, so
don't expect a full blown away rockalbum, but on the other hand the quirky
pop/rocksound might please fans of let's say DONNIE IRIS and especially MOON
MARTIN a lot (check out the uptempo Don't throw it away with it's great
guitarsolo). More info at: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/bigalstaggs2
Ina Forsman
'Been meaning to tell you' (RUF Records/German Import)
Out
of Canada comes the duo MOONFRUITS, whom deliver a very nice pure 'melodic'
folkpopalbum in the classic tradition and along with the French lyrics, it is
almost a Chanson kinda folk album that is based on beautiful sung melodies
between the male and female singer of the duo, which consists of Kaitlin Milroy
(Vocals, Glockenspiel, Kalimba) and Alex Millaire (Vocals, Guitar, Banjo,
Harmonium, Piano). The album is about a fictional village that looks like an
old French town meets a modern Canadian city, but as my French is not that well
anymore, I can only judge the 10 included songs. Not a single dull moment to be
found here and definitely a highly recommended album to fans of calm melodic folkpop.
Check it out for yourself at: https://moonfruits.bandcamp.com/album/ste-quequepart
Out
of Melbourne, Australia comes the sensational duo THE MAES, which consists of sisters
and songwriters MAGGIE and ELSIE RIGBY. Together they have already achieved a
lot of fame and fortune in their homecountry Australia with their 2017 released
album Take care take cover, which was recorded as THE MAE TRIO, but when Anita
Hillman quit, they continued as THE MAES. Under that name they released oa same
titled debut album, which was recorded in County Cork, Ireland. It contains 10
beautiful calm melodic folkpop pieces that are based around the fantastic
vocals of both sisters, whom also play mandolin, fiddle, guitars, banjo and
percussion. They remind me a lot of FIRST AID KIT and especially the THE WEBB
SISTERS. Just listen to the amazing haunting melodies of for example Half moon
Bay and you will definitely be hooked. It's a joy and pleasure to listen to
this beautiful record, which should get a lot of exposure since this is true
beautiful popmusic in it's purest form and fans of JONI MITCHELL and GILLIAN
WELCH as well as fans of the mentioned acts, they should check this out
a.s.a.p.! More info at: www.themaetrio.com
Californian
multi-instrumentalist BOBBO BYRNES has already released quite a few albums in
the past and The red wheelbarrow is his latest. It features also a list of
guest musicians, including pianoplayer Willie Walker, pedal steelguitarist Al
Carey and the legendary guitarist Phil Manzanera (who once recorded an album
with JOHN WETTON and was part of ROXY MUSIC). The music on this new album is
typical American rootsy rock/Americana with a sort of NEIL YOUNG kinda vibrato
in Bobbo's vocals. Check it out for yourself at: http://www.bobbobyrnes.com/
Now
this is of an incredible high level, but probably for the mass media hard to
pick up, because it is sounding quite different than the usual pop and rock
music. The Swedish multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter ANNA EINARSSON has
already released a few albums together with the band ANAGRAM, but now releases
a solo-album titled Life in pieces under the name ANNA EINARSSON ENSEMBLE.
Musically speaking it is a mix of classical music, World Music, experimental
jazz and beautiful pop melodies. KATE BUSH, CARLY SIMON and even BARBRA
STREISAND might be good comparisons, but then again when listening to opener To
have and to hold you can hear clearly that Anna has an own kinda style that is
more diverse and quite melancholic actually. Besides Anna on vocals, she is
helped by Anne Niepold on accordeon, Stefan Wingefors on piano and Svante Söderqvist
on double bass. It's almost unbelievable why such records do not reach a lot of
people, because it is simply beautiful and really grabs you right from the
start. Classical meets Jazz kinda piano play, atmospheric haunting vocals and
melodies sung by an amazingly talented singer, a Chanson like accordeon and a
bass to give it the finishing touch. Sometimes, when listening to a song like
Tullstorp, it's like you're listening to a movie soundtrack/motion picture
score. Definitely an incredible high quality release you should check out if you
want to hear something completely different. You will not be disappointed if
you have that open mind! More info at: http://www.annaeinarsson.com/
The
German/Australian SHIFT IT BABY consists of Robyn Wyman (Vocals), Thilo Muendel
(Guitar), Robert Eisfeldt (Drums), Karsten Schiemann, Marco reichhardt (Bass)
and Andreas Krug (Keyboards). Together they recorded a nice little record titled
Cool change, which musically is a mixture of Americana, light Blues and a
slight Jazzy touch. I would really like to hear Robyn singing more emotional,
because she definitely can do that, but therefore the songs need to be rawer an
rockier. Now it is pretty much a very safe record that contains mostly calm pop
orientated pieces. It's not bad, but without a doubt, SHIFT IT BABY should be
able to do much better. In fact, we have to wait until I can't live without you
to get something more uptempo rockier that brings out the best vocally as well.
Eve the DEEP PURPLE cover Smoke on the water is played way too slow and jazzy.
Perhaps on a next release some more upbeat tunes with a rockier edge, which
would suit SHIFT IT BABY for sure! Meanwhile, check them out at: http://www.shiftitbaby.de/
Singer/songwriter/guitarist
PAT KEARNS and his wife Susan (bass, tambourine) left Portland, Oregon as it
was too hectic and decided to get into the desert to experience the real life
and nature. They recorded an album together with local musicians whom also
lived around their small town of Joshua Tree in California. The result is a
nice singer/songwriter album with some rootsy/Americana influences, not far
removed from BOB DYLAN and NEIL YOUNG, although perhaps a little rockier and
better singing from Pat himself. 11 songs are included on Down in the wash and
it might not be groundbreaking, the result is a recommended singer/songwriter
album for sure. Check it out for yourself at: https://www.patkearnsmusic.com/
More
than 30 years ago L.A. was the place to be for new Rock and Roll bands, playing
the Sunset Strip, Whiskey-a-go-go and such places to become the next MOTLEY
CRUE, RATT or POISON. During this period, other music styles than Hair Metal
were almost completely ignored, so when singer/songwriter MARK ROGERS was
trying to get his countryrock meets college/indie powerpop noticed back then,
he realised it was impossible to get the attention he wanted, since in the late
1980s that kind of music was not exactly picked up by the mass media. He gave
up and now 30 years later he finally picked up his guitar again and wrote an
album full of material, of which Laying it down is the result. Musically
speaking this is classic singer/songwriter American Country/Indie Powerpop influenced,
with strong clean vocals of Mark (a la PAUL SIMON). It's incredible he never
got a chance, because the minute you hear the first song Right here on his
debut full-length solo-album you will agree with me that this is high quality
music that is based on traditional music where melodies are very important. THE
BYRDS and also TOM PETTY are clear comparisons during the lightweight pedal
steel/acoustic guitar tingled radiofriendly singer/songwriter ish music, of
which the highlights are the already mentioned Right here, Swerving (a little
bit BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN) and No bigger fool. Recommended album for sure, more at:
https://markrogerssongs.com/
We're
heading to Finland again with a very strong sensational band called SHIRAZ
LANE, of whom we received their latest album Vibration 1. They already released
a couple of albums in the past, including one for FRONTIERS RECORDS, but they
are now signed to the Finnish label RANKA KUSTANNUS. The new record contains 5
tracks and is very well-produced, with strong lead vocals and some great
musicianship. Musically it is pure late 80s/early 90s US Melodic Mainstream
Hardrock/Hair Pop Metal like a mixture between FIREHOUSE, KANE ROBERTS, PAUL
LAINE, 80s BON JOVI and DEF LEPPARD. On the other hand, SHIRAZ LANE can also be
compared to other newcomers such as H.E.A.T. or CRASHDIET. Opener Keep it alive
is a big sounding uptempo Melodic Hardrocksong like the mentioned newer
generation of classic retro sounding melo rock (H.E.A.T., CRASHDIET...) and
features a damn catchy chorus you will be singing for days after hearing it the
first time. The midtempo Do you is an instant classic for any fan of the 80s
bubblegum Melodic Hardrocksound in classic DEF LEPPARD 'Hysteria' style,
including big anthemic chorus. A song like the groovy Revolution is very close
to FIREHOUSE, while You will remain is more uptempo Melodic Hardrock, once
again very catchy and a must-hear for anyone who misses the days of SLAUGHTER,
WINGER, WARRANT, FIREHOUSE, DOKKEN... Closing track To the moon & back is
the cover of the classic SAVAGE GARDEN tune from almost 25 years ago (!) and
the guys did a very nice uptempo Melodic Rock version here. Without a doubt,
SHIRAZ LANE deliver a classy piece of big bombastic melodic hardrock the way it
needs to sound. Check them out if you're starting to become interested at: https://shirazlane-international.com/
The
album of the Canadian female fronted band POP MACHINE starts with classic 80s
Melodic Metal guitar riffs and solo's (IRON MAIDEN) and that is always nice to
hear, especially when it is done like on this record! They are actually a very
young band, formed in 2015 and featuring 5 musicians whom are still in their
teenage/early 20s years of age, which of course is making this even more
interesting. I reviewed a lot the past 25 years and this new CD somehow sounds
very much like those early to mid 90s independent US/Canadian Melodic
Hardrock/Metal CDs I received back then and believe me, that is not a complaint
at all! However, when I started writing, the members of this band were not even
born, so go figure! The band's line-up consists of Emily Duval (Lead vocals and
Keyboard), Candice Duval (rhythm guitar and vocals), Christopher Walli (Bass
guitar and Backing vocals), Keegan Beaulieu (Drums) and Cassandra Walli (Lead
guitar and backing vocals). The first 2
songs on their same titled CD (Animal eyes and Who's laughing now) are pretty
good uptempo classic piece of 80s inspired Melodic Heavy Rock/Metal tunes.
Morning after (Worlds collide) taps out of a different direction, more midtempo
AOR based with a catchy melodic harmonyvocal driven chorus like 80s HEART and
VIXEN. Ink woman is much groovier 70s based, like something TRIUMPH did back in
the good old days. Then the acoustic guitars are introduced during the 70s
HEART ish What it takes, a very nice semi-melodic rock/aor ish ballad and
actually this might be POP MACHINE's finest moment, because this a definite
classic rockballad tradition kinda song that should be played on any classic
rockstation out there! Back to rock with the uptempo Fallen angel that is just
lovely 80s Melodic Metal, very much sounding like it is 1985 or something (like
GIRLSCHOOL, MEGHAN, ENVY and such). Lookin' good is probably the weakest song,
a groovy rocker that has a bit of VAN HALEN ish influences. Closing track
December is back to Classic Rock again, starting as a SCORPIONS/TRIUMPH ish
calm Power Ballad, but developing into a big anthemic midtempo Melodic Metal
piece in TRIUMPH 70s style. Concluded, if you're into classic 80s (female fronted)
Melodic Rock/Metal, then do not hesitate at all here, because you got yourself
a true winner here. Perhaps only the production might be something worth
improving next time, but on the other hand it gives the band a real charming
original classic independent sound! More info at: https://pop-machine.weebly.com/
And
here we have the next female blues musician to enter the music scene, so fans
of SAMANTHA FISH, ANA POPOVIC, JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR should definitely write the
name on their wants list! She is called VANJA SKY, a young
singer/songwriter/guitarist from Croatia who started playing bluesrock only a
few years ago and already now has a CD out on the RUF RECORDS label. She got a
little help here and there from guitarists MIKE ZITO (rhythm guitar and
production), LAURENCE JONES (a few songs were written by him) and several guest
musicians, while the legendary JIM GAINES (HUEY LEWIS, SANTANA, SAGA, STEVIE
RAY VAUGHAN) engineered the album. Vanja has a great voice and she knows how to
rock for sure (during the RORY GALLAGHER cover Bad penny and Don't forget to
rock and roll for example), while in general we get to hear high quality
typical bluesrock in the style of the mentioned artists. Many highlights here,
such as Inside pain, Give me back my soul and Crossroads of life. In the end,
another highly recommended female bluesrock singer/guitarist to check out
a.s.a.p. More info at: https://vanjasky.rocks/
BEHIND
THE MACHINE is the solo-project of
multi-instrumentalist/producer/singer/songwriter ANDERS BAU from Denmark. What
is clear is that we are dealing here with a very strong vocalist and also
songwise he definitely is able to deliver. A song like Demons down below is
basically pure PETER GABRIEL vocally, while the song itself is a beautiful calm
prog/pop ballad like STEVEN WILSON, and The last sacraments oil and On top of
the world are pure DAVID BOWIE kinda tunes. He was kind enough to sent me a
couple of CDRs with his songs and let's hope a future official LP release will
follow, because Anders is a gifted and very talented musician, who can be seen
as an open-minded and prog/pop based musician not shy for some experiments with
modern electronic influences, but always keeps enough room for memorable
melodies, which I was able to hear on his 2 CDRs. The change is a fresh new
song showing him at his very best, midtempo modern sounding melodic progrock
like a mix between PETER GABRIEL, DAVID BOWIE, STEVEN WILSON and a bit of
PALLAS, with superb vocals. Can't wait for a full-length official album in the
style of The change, because that might shake the Progworld! Check it out for
yourself at: https://behindthemachine.bandcamp.com/
Out
of Manchester comes the interesting duo THE BLACKHEART ORCHESTRA, whom were
kind enough to sent me their 2 albums. Musically speaking it is quite
challenging and definitely out of the box, because we can hear all kinds of
music influences throughout the 2 CDs. The duo consists of
singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn and Richard Pilkington,
with Chrissy doing most of the vocals. KATE BUSH is definitely one of the best
comparison, especially when you listen to a song like Symphony. However, there
is much more to offer and the band is combining classical music with pop
melodies, while progressive pop/rock is the overall sound that you can hear.
Also a part shoegaze/dreampop can be traced back in the somewhat atmospheric
sound of THE BLACKHEART ORCHESTRA. All together a recommended band to check out at:
Jeremiah
Johnson 'Straitjacket/Heavens to Betsy' (RUF Records)
Singer/songwriter/guitarist
JEREMIAH JOHNSON has already released quite a few albums in the past, but I was
not familiar yet with him until I received his 2018 and 2020 releases.
Straitjacket from 2018 shows right away we are dealing here with someone who can
become one of the next major players in the bluesrockworld. The heavy bluesrock
of St. Louis born JEREMIAH JOHNSON is reminding a lot of GARY MOORE (vocally a
lot!), yet Jeremiah is mainly influenced by ALVIN LEE, ERIC CLAPTON and such.
His voice is a pleasure to listen to and his guitarplaying is very precise and
all together his sound is very relaxed. The line-up of his band is further
completed by Frank Bauer – Saxophone & backing vocals, Benet Schaeffer –
Drums and Tony Anthonis – Bass guitar. Both albums follow the same style, which
is a mixture of slower bluesrockers and more uptempo slightly southern rock
influenced tunes, such as the awesome Forever and a day that is almost
reminding of LYNYRD SKYNYRD (and so does the song Leo stone), while American
steel is then again pure GARY MOORE ish bluesrock (and so does the superb
uptempo Castles in the air). All mentioned tracks can be found on Heavens to
Betsy, his new 2020 release which sets the bar very high for the remaining part
of 2020 to beat this as best bluesrockalbum. Not a single weak song can be
found on this sensational new bluesrockalbum from JEREMIAH JOHNSON. Straitjacket
is also a very good release, but with Heavens to Betsy he clearly improved
himself at many aspects, resulting in this highly recommended album! Make sure
to check him out at: https://www.jeremiahjohnsonband.com/
ALL THE
REAL GIRLS 'MOVIE STAR HANDSOME VINYL LP' (INDEPENDENT/USA IMPORT)It
surprises me everytime how many undiscovered high quality bands are still out
there, especially in the USA, because over here in Europe the focus is always
directed to the British Isles. Take for example ALL THE REAL GIRLS from Seattle
and their latest record Movie star handsome, which I received on a vinyl
record. This is a very strong release that should definitely be praised over
here in Europe. The music of ALL THE REAL GIRLS is very melodic and poprock
based, but also takes influences from Indie, Alternative, Country and
Americana, which makes it quite a diverse and attractive album to check out. If
I am correct, this is the band's first official full-length record and after
playing it a few times it is clear to me that we are dealing here with a
sensational record!
10
songs are included , starting with opener Rob me blind, which is a very catchy
uptempo melodic pop/rock tune that sounds like a somewhat rougher version of
THE REMBRANDTS crossed with CALEXICO and DAWES. Vocally, lead singer/guitarist
PETER DONOVAN has a typical college-rock/US alternative rock voice that during
the 1990s could be heard a lot in American bands (GIN BLOSSOMS, MATCBOX 20,
THIRD EYE BLIND, VERTICAL HORIZON, COLLECTIVE SOUL...), but also reminds a bit
of TOM PETTY. Next track Shows what I knew is a midtempo piece like CROWDED
HOUSE, while the semi-ballad Could've told me then is more akin to a polished
REM. The titletrack is another strong CALEXICO ish uptempo pop/rock piece with
Americana touch, while Side-A closes with the piano-ballad Wolves. Side-B
starts with a very happy sounding pure Country ish sing-a-long uptempo tune
called Empty glass of ice that is quite a change in style compared to Side-A,
because this is sounding close to JOHN DENVER, with only a slight Americana
touch. Despite it being a sorta small change to pure Country, it still is a
very catchy tune somehow. Hometown hero is going for a more friendly uptempo
melodic poprock kinda sound and might be one of the finest songs of the band.
It is very close to NELSON circa 'Life', so it is featuring a very catchy
singable chorus and is basically radio-ready. Brother Brian follows the same
route, perhaps a little more Americana based a la CALEXICO. Do your worst has
some 60s Powerpop influences and is actually close to classic THE HOLLIES. The
album finishes with Your favorite songs, a semi mid/uptempo fun little number.
Concluded, a very strong highly recommended album that might appeal to a lot of
music fanatics out there, as it combines a lot of various influences. Check it
out at: http://www.alltherealgirlsmusic.com/
JESSE DAYTON ‘MIXTAPE VOLUME 1’ (BLUE
ELAN RECORDS/USA IMPORT)
Out
of New Jersey, USA comes singer/songwriter/guitarist/multi-instrumentalist
DOMINIC ARGIRO, who is a very talented musician and an incredible singer. His
voice is just superb and very 'Rock' based, sounding like a cross between JEFF
SCOTT SOTO and LENNY KRAVITZ. Musically his pop/rock is not that far away from
LENNY KRAVITZ either actually, if you listen to for example New years love from
his album Stop working me over. The light pop/rock also has similarities to
RICK SPRINGFIELD if you listen to the catchy Celebrate your life. In total 15
tracks arw included and I can definitely hear the potential here, but I have
also a big suggestion to Dominic, because what makes it all a little less
interesting are the clear use of the drumcomputer. Please replace it by real
drums next time and give the whole sound a bigger and wider band production
approach, because it now sounds very thin here and there. This is a real pity,
because Dominic has a great voice and he is able to write some catchy rocktunes
with a classic rock/80s approach. Now it sounds like a demo and unfinished
product, which is such a shame if you listen carefully, as Dominic is
definitely a talent to watch out for in the future. More info at: https://twitter.com/DominickArgiro
Not
much info on this Italian band, but their 10 tracks counting CD sounds pretty
good for an independent release. The included music is a mix of Alternative and
Gothic Rock, with a very slight prog touch here and there. THE CURE is one of
their obvious influences here, but somehow PARTINICO ROSE is able to develop an
own kinda identity when listening to songs like Slave of time, Misanthrophy and
I am looking for a job. Their lyrics are quite strong and the threesome have
clearly managed to come up with a very decent album release that was produced
with the help of the famous crowdfunding involvement. Most of the songs are
uptempo, melodic, sounding a bit dark and melancholic and most of the time they
remind me a lot of classic early THE CURE, without sounding like a copycat as
therefore this band is doing their own things thankfully. Also their vocalist
has that typical Italian accent if you know what I mean and I am aware that
there are enough people out there whom appreciate this kind of
dramatic/operatic high pitched way of singing. Check it out for yourself at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0jfBeKYSjVLKUfslnTPWOw
There
are thousands of bands out there playing 80s influenced Melodic Rock in the old
BON JOVI school, so when hearing a new band in this genre, we know in advance
that we don't have to expect anything new. Important is that everything is done
at a high level and there needs to be the excitement of a bunch of young guys
like we have seen from for example H.E.A.T. The Italian band BLIND REVOLUTION
makes their debut with Money, love, light, which musically speaking is pure 80s
catchy hookladen melodic rock in the style of the aforementioned H.E.A.T. and
SHY. The band's line-up consists of Cristiano Sipione - Vocals, Keyboards, Simone
Sipione - Guitars, Backing Vocals,
Max
Ricciardo - Bass, Backing Vocals, Keyboards Programming and Giovanni Maucieri -
Drums, Sequencer.10 songs are included and right from the start it feels like
we are dealing with a great new band you don't want to miss. Opener Guiding
light sets the bar pretty high, as this is picture perfect uptempo classic 80s
Melodic Rock with a very catchy memorable chorus and strong guitarwork,
basically dangerously close to 80s BON JOVI, DANGER DANGER, TOBRUK and HEAVEN'S
TOUCH (vocally the same as they were also Italian), but also of course H.EA.T.
and SHY. The CD continues with the similar uptempo Miracle, while the midtempo
Knocking for love has a kick-ass AOR hookline and AOR chorus. Fans of the
mentioned bands should definitely check out this BLIND REVOLUTION a.s.a.p.,
because they absolutely deliver here. Perhaps not original, but who cares if
the material is good enough to push the repeat beton after hearing a catchy
tune like Take the magic back or the JOURNEY meets TED POLEY/DANGER DANGER esque
ballad Never let you go. The band sounds really tight with precise melodic
guitarwork and catchy choruses to sing-a-long to and somewhat typical Italian
style vocals (as mentioned very close to HEAVEN'S TOUCH and LABYRINTH singers)
that also has it's charm, although he also reminds me a lot of good old TED
POLEY actually. Highly recommended band to the melodic rockfans out there! More
info at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/blindrevolutionofficial
The
members of the band GHOSTMAKER from Berlin, Germany, they have already done a
lot of tourings and recordings with several other bands in the past. However,
GHOSTMAKER is actually making their official debut with Room service romeo. The
band is a duo consisting of guitarist/vocalist CHRIS JANY and ANDY LAAF. The
album was produced by Thommy Hein (NICK CAVE, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, KORN...)
and sounds quite impressive. It is modern rock/hardrock based that sounds a bit
like FOO FIGHTER, SOUNDGARDEN, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, THE CULT and such. The
band has a strong vocalist and quite catchy pure Rock/Hardrock ish material on
offer, such as the impressive uptempo Kalifornia Avalon that is dangerously
close to classic THE CULT. The whole album rocks and sounds fresh and ready for
today's modern rockworld. If you like the aforementioned bands, then you will
definitely like GHOSTMAKER as well. They could easily become the next big thing
after hearing their rocking full-length debut album Room service Romeo. More info
can be found at:http://www.ghostmaker.net
(Points: 8.1 out of 10)
Out
of France comes the modern sounding Melodic Metalband HOT HELL ROOM, whom
deliver their 3rd album Stasis. The band mixes elements of the past classic
Melodic Heavy Rocksound with a touch of the present day modern Metal sound. The
vocals are in the high-pitched direction and not without an accent I'm afraid.
The production is pretty good, thanks to ANDREW G (AS THEY BURN, MOMOLYTHE...)
and all together the 10 included songs are nice to listen to. Highlights are
the uptempo melodic heavy rocker Human game (reminding of a cross between MOON'DOC,
AXXIS and a calmer PRIMAL FEAR) and Final
choice (a somewhat darker 90s slow SOUNDGARDEN ish influence meets a catchy
uptempo melodic QUEENSRYCHE ish chorus). Not bad at all, although the singer
sounds a bit monotone after a while. More info at: https://hothellroom.bandcamp.com/
German
Teutonic Metal or as mentioned in the press bio MOTORHEAD ish punky sleazy
heavy rock is the best description of this German band CASE 39. They sound on a
fast tune like Full speed or the damn catchy Grandsons of Elvis dangerously
close to classic RUNNING WILD, MOTORHEAD and any classic German Teutonic
Metalband, while the midtempo Living like Vampires is back-to-back
ACCEPT/UDO/SINNER. By now you will more or less understand where this is going,
because CASE 39 is not doing any compromise here, as the whole CD is a mixture
of the afforementioned bands and styles, with gang-vocal choruses to
sing-a-long to. The band's singer has a very raw German accent, but who cares
as the mix of classic Punk and Teutonic Metal will be loved by fans of
aforementioned bands. I can recommend their debut album Kick the devil for sure
and for more info I would like to refer you to their website at: http://www.case39.de
Out
of Lancaster, UK comes MASSIVE WAGONS, another new band from the UK that is
playing good old fun classic rock. They are not really new, as the band was
formed quite sometime ago (2009) and already released their debut album back in
2012. Anyway, for the bigger outside world, MASSIVE WAGONS has not made their
big breakthrough, although they are quite clearly making a name due to their
extensive touring. Full nelson was actually released in 2018, so it has been
out for a while now. Nevertheless, in case you missed it, here's another chance
you get after reading our review. The band's sound is Classic Rock based with a
slight focus on Glam/Hair Metal/Melodic Hardrock here and there (such as during
the catchy MOTLEY CRUE ish Back to the stack), as if it was still 1989, yet
they make it sound fresh and new due to the fact there is this tiny bit of 90s
Punkpop injected here and there. It's not like we are listening to a GREENDAY
or BLINK 182, because therefore these guys are definitely too much Melodic
Hardrock based. However, when you hear a semi-ballad like Northern boy, you
will understand what I mean. Perhaps a good comparison is HAREM SCAREM, yet
with the current energy of VOLBEAT. Anyway, the music rocks big time and also
features some very strong melodic choruses, such as during uptempo pieces like
China plates, Hate me and Billy Balloon head, where MASSIVE WAGONS give VOLBEAT
run for their money. Concluded, we can easily add this band to the growing list
of sensational new UK bands that play Classic Rock, which makes it probably
possible to call it the New Wave Of British Classic Rock by now (shortened to
NWOBCR). Check it out for yourself a.s.a.p. and listen to all tunes of this
album at: https://massivewagons.bandcamp.com/album/full-nelson
CARSON
MCHONE is a singer/songwriter from Austin, Texas who has quickly gathered a lot
of attention through her 2 album releases, of which Carousel dates back to
2018. This album was even selected by ROLLING STONE MAGAZINE as one of the
"40 Best Country and Americana Albums of 2018"! That is of course
something to be proud of and when listening to the record, I can conclude that
this is indeed one of the best country pop/rock albums in ages. Original fun
and radiofriendly country pop/rock, with a pop melody here and there for sure,
however not as polished or pop based as some of the usual American country
acts. If anyone remembers JUICE NEWTON, then you have your comparison, because
CARSON MCHONE is sometimes quite close. Lucky or Sad for example are the kind
of uptempo country pop/rock tune Juice also made back in the day. 11 songs are
included and it is a pleasure to listen to this gifted musician from Austin,
Texas. One of the finest songs is the beautiful Dram shop gal that is perhaps
one of the best country songs of the century! Without a doubt, Carson is a highly
recommended singer/songwriter to check out at: http://www.carsonmchonemusic.com/
GILL
LANDRY 'SKELETON AT THE BANQUET' (LOOSE MUSIC/UK IMPORT)
The
new album of GILL LANDRY from Louisana, USA starts very peaceful, with a slight
LEONARD COHEN/JOHNNY CASH kinda song titled I love you too, which could somehow
also have been on a soundtrack or in a movie by QUENTIN TARANTINO. It has the
same kinda feeling, sorta western and Americana with a country meets
singer/songwriter approach. Anyway, Gill started once as a busker, but ended up
being part of several bands, such as OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW and KITCHEN
SYNCOPATORS. Since 2007 he has also been releasing solo records and Skeleton at
the banquet is his 5th so far. After the calm start, the album changes into a
more uptempo direction with The wolf, a very strong Americana pop/rock song
that also has a slight touch of CALEXICO, yet more laid-back. In total we can
find 9 songs here and Gill has delivered here a perfect album for the people
who like CASH, COHEN, SPRINGSTEEN kinda material that combines dark haunting
themes with a very peaceful instrumental backing (steel/lapse and acoustic
guitar) and a singer with a voice that is as good as the mentioned
singer/songwriters. Gill should already be up there, but that takes time I'm
afraid before it happens. DANNY VERA already achieved the same kinda fame and
fortune in The Netherlands, so who knows GILL LANDRY will also become a
household name in the near future. A different tune or The refuge of your arms for
example have the same kinda melancholic touch needed to become a hitsingle!
Fingers crossed and time will tell, because it is definitely possible for this
talented singer/songwriter! For now, do not miss this beautiful album! More
info at: http://www.gilllandrymusic.com/
THOUGHTS
FACTORY 'ELEMENTS' (MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS/USA IMPORT)
2020
has only just begun and we already have 2 great new Progressive Rock/Progmetal
releases. BLIND EGO's new album is a sensational Progrockalbum and the 2nd
album of THOUGHTS FACTORY is without a doubt a superb piece of Melodic
Progmetal at it's very best. This Frankfurt, German based band was formed in
2011 and released their debut Lost back in 2013. In the years to follow the
band changed their lead singer and now the line-up consists of Sven Schornstein
(Keys), Bernd Schönegge (Bass), Chris Maldener (Drums), Markus Wittmann
(Guitars) and Cornelius Wurth (Vocals). Together they recorded a really amazing
new record that contains everything we love of the Progressive Rock/Progmetal
genre. There are of course clear influences and similarities to be heard to the
major players in this genre, such as DREAM THEATER, THRESHOLD and SYMPHONY X ,
but it's all done at an incredible high level. Now signed to the American label
MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS, the band is ready to conquer the Progmetalworld
with this new album. Songs like The burden, Fire away and Our kingdom are instant winners for the fans
of classic Melodic Progmetal a la PAGAN'S MIND, SYMPHONY X, BALANCE OF POWER,
THRESHOLD... The band's new singer Cornelius Wurth has a fantastic voice and
incredible range (STEVE PERRY - JOURNEY), which is best heard during the
semi-ballad Nightfall that sounds like a mix between JOURNEY and THRESHOLD,
while instrumentally speaking, THOUGHTS FACTORY is doing things perfectly as
well, which can be heard very clearly during the instrumental Frozen planet.
Without a doubt, this is a true winner that will end up in the 2020 year-end
list of best albums for sure! More info at: http://www.thoughtsfactory.com/
Although
the Canadian band IRON KINGDOM from the Vancouver area was formed in 2011 and
already released 3 albums since then, their latest and 4th album On the hunt is
my first introduction to them. I have to say when opener White wolf kicks in,
we are immediately ready to praise the latest traditional and sensational
Melodic Metalband, because they are exactly doing things the way we want to
hear it when this kind of Metal is presented. Twin-guitars, soaring
guitarsolos, a tight rhythm section, catchy singable choruses, a classic
uptempo IRON MAIDEN ish galloping sound, high-pitched but clean screams/vocals
and really giving you the feeling we are going back in time to the early 1980s
when the NWBOHM movement was conquering the Metal world. It's unbelievable I
haven't heard these guys before, because this is traditional Melodic Metal at
it's finest. Fans of classic IRON MAIDEN (the melodic sound), THIN LIZZY (the
twin-guitars), WOLF, SAXON, ANGEL WITCH, RIOT, AXEL RUDI PELL, FIFTH ANGEL,
TYGERS OF PAN TANG, JUDAS PRIEST (the vocals), HAMMERFALL (the lyrics), very
early SCORPIONS (the guitarsolos) and such will definitely fall in love
instantly with this band. Formed around Chris Osterman - Guitar / Vocals, Leighton
Holmes - Bass, Chris Sonea - Drums and Megan Merrick - Guitar, they are working
their way quite fast and furiously through the 9 included tracks, but it's
always sounding very melodic and really catchy. Besides the already mentioned
White wolf, other highlights are Driftin' through time, Keep it steel and Paragon,
while album closer the dream is a nice somewhat calmer semi rock/metal tune. Do
not miss this band please and check them out a.s.a.p. at: http://www.iron-kingdom.com
CHRIS
COMET & THE TRIBE 'REACHING NEW HORIZONS' (INDEPENDENT/USA IMPORT)
From
out of nowhere this sensational Melodic Rockalbum was delivered at my house
address and I am so glad it did, because we have something special here for
sure. CHRIS COMET is a producer/composer/arranger/keyboardplayer/drummer who
came to the USA 22 years ago, where he landed in Hollywood and started playing
and producing in famous studios such as Westlake, A&M, Record Plant,
Fantasy, Jackson family private studio and so on… He worked with many
well-known session musicians, but eventually moved to Texas where he has his
own studios called SOARING EAGLE. Here he recorded a really great record along
with a bunch of other musicians and singers called THE TRIBE, consisting of Rudiger,
Lead Singer & Backup Vocals, Paul Slade, Lead Singer, Composer, Acoustic
Guitar, Kevin Reeves, Backup Vocals, Tony McElveen, Lead Singer and Backup
Vocals, Marcello Vieira, Lead Singer and Backup Vocals, Glenn DeLaune, Electric
Guitar, Acoustic Guitar and Backup Vocals, Kamil Rustam, Electric Guitar and Acoustic
Guitar, Claudio Tristano, Electric Guitar and Acoustic Guitar, Nick Miller,
Electric Guitar, Jack Haigh, Acoustic Guitar, Chris West, Brass Section, Blake
Mohler, Banjo and Pedal-Steel Guitar and Charles Berthoud, Bass and Fretless
Bass.
The
legendary Californian AOR/Melodic Rock/Pomprockband FRAGILE released quite some
recordings during the 1980s, but never managed to really breakthrough and so a
lot of these old songs are unheard. Thankfully bandleader HENRY PETER managed
to capture the best ones on a new CD titled The shhh..hit and even was able to
get the guys together and record a new album titled the 20/20 sound. We
reviewed the band back in 2018 through the review of their classic LP The album
and also discussed the start of this best of CD project via an official
release. Now it's all available on CD for everyone to hear and most important
here of course here are 8 brand-new songs of FRAGILE. The 20/20 sound album is
a great strong record with a classic 70s/80s Melodic Rock/Pomprocksound,
containing some excellent musicianship in classic AOR/Rockstyle (guitar and
keys) and songs that will please all fans of bands like STYX, FOREIGNER,
ROADMASTER, BOSTON... ROBERT BERRY is good friends with the band and so he
mixed down the whole thing at his SOUNDTEK STUDIOS, while the even more
legendary GEORGE HORN mastered the music. From this new record it is nice to
mention the strong ballads I've been there and Once in your life, the midtempo
Ready, willing, able and the AOR driven Feed me a line that sound a bit like
AXE. The absolute highlight however is the SUPERB uptempo closing track I see
it in your eyes, which is full-on prime-time mid 1980s AOR and Pomprock with
big bombastic keys and soaring guitarwork, while the vocals and catchy chorus are
all together making it sound like a real classic in the AOR genre, reminding a
bit of LE ROUX circa Up/So fired up (FERGIE FREDERIKSEN like vocals), CRYSTAL,
WHITE SISTER and such. I am safe to say that this last song might be the best
FRAGILE has ever recorded!
Out
of Raleigh, North Carolina, USA comes MELTDOWN YELLOW, a great new original
classic rockband that has already 2 albums out, but is now discovered through
their strong new 3rd album Secret. 8 songs are included in total and their
sound is definitely akin to classic (hard) rockbands from the past, with also
the inclusion of catchy hooks and strong vocals, but the groovy raw guitar
riffs also reveal 90s altrock influences and here and there they remind me of
THE CULT/LA GUNS, although the vocals are a bit more Arena/Hair Metal
orientated. Highlights are Wash away, Unappealing and Take, but most of the
songs are in a similar rocking style that combine groovy classic rock riffs
with melodic hooks and choruses. Album closer The rest of me might be the finest
track here, a bit reminding of classic SKID ROW. Definitely a high quality band
with a lot of potential! Check them out at: https://meltdownyellowrocks.com/
It's
a pity that the Canadian band SLEEPING IN TRAFFIC was only able to sent the CDR
of their album That which destroys us, because it sounds very sensational and
screams for an official VINYL or CD release. They are coming out of Edmonton
and combine strong melodies of the RUSH kind with modern Progressive Metal
complexity of the TOOL meets COHEED AND CAMBRIA kind. If this was a European
band, they would be signed by one of the major prog labels quite quickly,
because they are doing things at an incredible high level when you hear songs
like The Equation and Audaciousness of Him. The vocals are clean and very
strong, while instrumental they seem to combine everything that fits in between
the modern rock and progrock/progmetal world and in between they offer some
very catchy memorable choruses that would make RUSH jealous. 6 songs are on
this new EP CD and not a single moment it gets boring. It is time for this band
to get signed and proper VINYL or CD releases, because their material is too
good to stay digital only for the rest of your lives. Check them out at: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/sleepingintraffic3
and https://sleepingintraffic.bandcamp.com/album/that-which-destroys-us
17
songs are on the album of multi-instrumentalist STEVE OTT from Shippensburg, PA,
USA. The music is a mix of progrock and 80s new wave and instrumentally Steve
is definitely showing he is able to come up with some great ideas like the RUSH
influenced Lost in you, which is actually a strong 80s influenced melodic
rocker in the style of ALDO NOVA. Also Come back to me has got that same 80s
melodic rock approach thanks to the synths. Only vocally Steve is not that
convincing and also the use of drum machines here and there is making it all
sound quite thin, which is a pity, because Steve is a gifted musican. His
guitarplaying is by far his strongest point and perhaps it is an idea to gather
musicians and a singer around him and start a band, because that might do to
the trick. Anyway, check it out for yourself at: http://www.unsigned.com/steveott
We
don't have that much info on this release, but HENRIK CEDERBLOM is coming out
of Gothenburg, Sweden and he played in the past in several bands and projects,
so Zobop might well be his first solo release. On the album he got help from Viktor
Turegard (Electric Bass), Tapha Indiongue (Drums), Sten Källman (Tenor and
Soprano Sax) and Finn Björnulfson (Percussion) and musically speaking it is
balancing between Jazzfusion, Progressive Rock and a little bit of FRANK ZAPPA.
It is a full instrumental album and without a doubt it is a high quality and
quite a sensational release. Henrik himself plays electric guitar and does it
very well, but also leaves enough room for the other musicians, such as during
the beautiful saxsolo based Franx. Actually this album feels really like a band
or project instead of a solo album from Henrik. The music is calm, relaxing and
very melodic, but also challenging enough here and there for the Jazz/Fusion
fans out there. It even sometimes feels like an old classic 70s almost
Krautrock/Fusion, so enough to explore here. Do not miss this release if you're
into instrumental 70 based groovy melodic Fusion/Jazz/Prog. Go for more info to:
http://www.cederblom.com/
Now
this sounds very sensational were my first thoughts when listening to the new
album of the Scottish singer/songwriter MARTHA L. HEALY. The album Keep the
flame alight was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, along with
producer/bluegrass fiddler DAVID SPICHER and when hearing opener No place like
home you can hear rightaway that this is really good. This super melodic song
combines the best of country and pop with beautiful melodies and lovely vocals
of Martha. It should be a guaranteed hit, because it grabs you right away and
keeps you singing and humming the song for days. I'll bet if someone like ILSE
DE LANGE would record it, then a big hit would follow. Anyway, Martha does a really
great job on each and every of the 10 included songs. Most of the songs follow
the same path as that first song, so a mixture of country and pop/rock with a
focus on beautiful pop melodies.Just listen to the fantastic Keep the flame
alight, which features such an amazing memorable melodic chorus! Not a single
weak track can be found here and I can easily recommend it to everyone looking
for strong melodies in their music. More info at: https://marthalhealy.com/
Elsewhere
we reviewed a couple of regular releases of the American label BLUE ELAN
RECORDS, namely JESSE DAYTON and CHERIE CURRIE (ex-THE RUNAWAYS), but here we
have a compilation CD of this very interesting label that offers a mix of
singer/songwriter, westcoast and americana acts. 15 tracks are included and
besides songs from the aforementioned acts, others bands/artists on this label
are JANIVA MAGNESS, ROD MELANCON, GINA SICILIA, RED WANTING BLUE, THE VEGABONDS,
THE REMBRANDTS (the legendary 'Friends' band), CHELSEA WILLIAMS, GERRY BECKLEY
(of AMERICA), RUSTY YOUNG and MUSTANGS OF THE WEST. Not a single dull moment to
be found here and hopefully soon more reviews of their releases. Meanwhile,
more info at:https://www.blueelan.com/
Citizen
alien is the 2nd album of the (Winnipeg) Canadian Folk/Americana duo LEAF
RAPIDS, consisting of KERI and husband DEVIN LATIMER, who created an album
together that is lyrically based on the family history of Keri. This is a trip
through various parts of the world (Japan, Iceland and eventually Canada),
while musically it is very strong melodic calmer folkpop/Americana. Basically
the music is simple and very basic, with a melancholic sound to accompany the
acoustic guitar and voice of Keri, because further we can find Devin on bass,
Joanna Miller on drums and Rusty Matyas on keys. The band feel of songs like
There they go, Dear sister or Citizen alien give them a richer sound and are
more interesting than the calmer acoustic only tunes such as Caragana switch
and Virginia, which on the other hand might be welcomed by fans of for example
JONI MITCHELL. The music is very melodic and as mentioned, it sounds all very
melancholic and sometimes reminding me of the WEBB SISTERS or FIRST AID KIT,
although a little less direct and vocally slightly different, because Keri has
a kind of unique vibrato that you don't hear that much. It's hard to explain,
but take it from me that this is a wonderful beautiful record that should gain
more attention! More info can be found at: https://leafrapids.org/
COYOTE
BROTHER 'COYOTE BROTHER' (INDEPENDENT/HEMIFRAN)
9
songs are included on this little album of the American duo COYOTE BROTHER,
which consists of singers/songwriters/guitarists JOHN HARDIN and HAYWARD
WIILLIAMS. Both musicians have solo careers going on, but now joined forces and
recorded this beauty, because basically this is a wonderful relaxing and very
melodic album. The music might be basic and simple, but that is also it's
strength, because together they create beautiful melodic harmonyvocal driven
tunes from start to finish here, with only memorable tunes (kinda like THE MILK
CARTON KIDS if anyone remember them. It sounds like a modern and slightly more
upbeat version of SIMON & GARFUNKEL meets THE EVERLY BROTHERS, with even a
slight touch of THE EAGLES, although if you hear a song like the superb
Palmetto wine there's also a certain BRYAN ADAMS kinda vibrato in the
vocal/chorus department (if he of course doesn't rock or sings a sappy ballad
haha), but also a calmer CALEXICO can be mentioned here. What COYOTE BROTHER
are doing here is of an exceptional high level and should be heard by everyone
out there, because you don't hear such good original music much these days.
This is classic singer/songwriter music at it's very best with 2 gifted
musicians (and a couple of backing musicians) and a handfull of sensational
melodic songs. Do not miss this album please! More info at: http://www.coyotebrother.com
I
have always been a sucker for the vocals of URIAH HEEP singer BERNIE SHAW, so I
am very grateful to have seen him perform live in the past. Besides URIAH HEEP,
I loved some of his other work as well, such as the brilliant STRATUS AOR
Classic Throwing shapes record from the mid 1980s and now he has recorded a
great new album with Canadian guitarist/keyboardplayer/bassist/songwriter DALE
COLLINS. They already know each other for quite a while and even worked
together many years ago, which can be heard now on Too much information. This
album contains newly recorded versions of those old songs, so it doesn't sound
dated at all, as in fact it has a very fresh and up-to-date sound in a URIAH
HEEP meets STRATUS kinda direction. Dale is a superb guitarist, which can be
heard very clearly here and along with Bernie's unique vocals (somewhat STEVE
PERRYish), this makes up for a really great Melodic Rock record. The only pity
might be that there are only 8 tracks included, of which closing track is the
DAVID ESSEX cover Rock on, but on the other hand it is high quality material
from start to finish. If we pick out the best songs here, I need to mention
Alone (a wonderful semi melodic rock ballad, with super strong catchy chorus),
the uptempo AOR/Melodic Rocker Too much information (a little JOURNEY ish) and the
AOR ballad Sad song. Funny detail is that Dale reminded me that I once reviewed
his work, which was way back in 1999 (!) and songs from that EP have now been
re-recorded on this new CD. Without a doubt, a nice return from Dale 20 years
later with his finest work so far and concluded, I can really recommend this
great album to fans of URIAH HEEP, STRATUS, FAIR WARNING, ZENO and such mature
Melodic Rock. More info at: www.reverbnation.com/bernieshawdalecollins
| CLICK HERE FOR MORE NEW REVIEWS |
| GO TO THE REVIEWSINDEXPAGE |
| BACK TO HOMEPAGE |