Peter H. Nilsson - Little American Dream (album review redux)

Peter H. Nilsson is not known to American audiences even though he released his debut album, Little American Dream almost 2 years ago. His follow up album is on the way, and I'll definitely be reviewing it here. In fact, Peter's new track, "Can't Come Down" is now streaming alongside the other 9 tracks on Little American Dream. The new song carries a thoughtful metaphor about being in a risky place on a high wire. Nilsson is the guitarist and co-writer of this excellent material along with Nashville singer Chris Biano. Chris has a smooth, soulful delivery. The music itself echoes bands like Breathe, Foreigner, Go West and Icehouse. This is a heavier west coast groove. It's not hard rock, but there is enough going on to make fans of a harder sound take notice.  Other session musicians include Patrick Adiels on bass guitar and drummer Jason Meekins. This music sounds incredibly familiar, even though you've never heard it before. No, these aren't recycled riffs and hooks, but new music that is accessible to the ears. The vocals and guitars create the soundtrack for late night driving.  Nilsson and Biano have created their own sound. The record's title track intros with a catchy synth riff that allows Biano a nice launching pad for his sincere warnings about chasing the American dream too hard. The moody undercurrent sets the stage for one of the most consistent rock albums in years.

"Me and You" is a lengthy hypnotic rocker, with an instantly singable chorus and the clever use of the word "hey" as part of the vocal call and answer parts. One of the lyrics is jealous of something new, me and you. "Timeless" is another spellbinding arrangement with romantic lyrics. There is a heavy dose of class inside these grooves. These men are thoughtful arrangers and writers. The choruses all pack a memorable punch. Honestly any of these songs could be radio singles. Each track has an above average, longer than normal guitar solo. Peter is able to stretch out on guitar and Chris Biano's vocal phrasing mirrors the rumble of the guitar. "Love Is Worth Fighting For"is one of the lengthier tracks on the album, and it contains some very satisfying hooks along with more sonic beauty with Biano and Nilsson mounting a two pronged attack. Peter's work on guitar is not flashy, but it is very satisfying. You might compare it to David Gilmour or Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music).

"Haunted" is a perfect song for the moodiness of this record. It's metaphorical ghost is an ex-lover who can't be forgotten. And the music matches the subject matter perfectly. "Am I Dreaming", "Magic" and "Rumours" lean a little harder toward pop, but still manage to be full fledged mid-tempo rock songs featuring ear-friendly guitar tones from Nilsson and Biano's ethereal vocals. These songs would be singles on other albums where there wasn't this much consistently good material. On this album every song is it's own independent island of greatness. This is also a record you won't tire of. It's polished, but arranged in such a way that allows you to find new things the more you listen.

Peter H. Nilsson has created a modern melodic rock masterpiece with the support of other high caliber musicians. This work goes largely under the radar in many parts of the world. But this is the one time the internet helps a musician receive deserved exposure. This was my favorite album of 2019 and with a new song added to the playlist, it's even more of a treat now.

Album rating 9.9