Giant - Shifting Time (Via Frontiers Music SRL)

Giant is a band that has been off and on for over 3 decades. Their debut album Last of The Runaways was a classic 80's melodic rock collection featuring the long lost top 40 power balled, I'll See You In My Dreams. The band's next album Time To Burn ended up being one of last albums of it's kind to be released on any major record label. The shift away from bands like Giant was in full swing, and the album got lost in the shuffle. 

The rebirth of Giant in 2022 was fostered by Frontiers Music and their team of writers, singers and producers. The results here are rather impressive. Vocalist Kent Hilli (Perfect Plan, Restless Spirits, Solo) makes his presence felt. The swirling instrumental title track leads into the guitar power of "Let Our Love Win". Right away this feels like Giant with swagger. Hilli is a really impressive singer even if this isn't your dad's version of the band. Founding members David Huff and Mike Brignardello are present to lend authenticity to the project along with guitarist Dann Huff who shows up for "Never Die Young", which is another rocked up track showcasing Hilli and the powerhouse arrangements that will have real rock fans cheering. 

These end up being really good songs that get better as you repeat them. "Don't Say A Word" continues the streak, followed by "My Breath Away" and the big choruses of "Highway of Love". This is an album filled with radio ready material. And yes, there is a classic Giant power ballad in the instantly moving "It's Not Over". "The Price of Love" is another slow to medium track filled with drama and a great build up. "Standing Tall" is a slightly bluesy slice of swagger showcasing Kent Hilli's vocal chops. "Anna Lee" is another pristine power ballad with a great chorus and meaningful lyrics. "I Don't Wanna Lose You" features great guitar riffage from Starship's John Roth who is the main guitarist on this project.

 "I Walk Alone" is a great mid-tempo power ballad that finishes this collection the way it started. This is sincerely a nice return to form for a band many thought would likely never make music again. Kudos to everyone involved with the new Giant. It should be as big as the band's name. 

RMO Rating 9.6