The first single "Eagle Flight" builds in dramatic fashion, with Del Vecchio adding his classically trained keyboards to a soaring Castronovo who breaks from his Steve Perry imitations to be his own singer. The new approach pays dividends from the first notes. The title track could easily have been a mainstay on rock radio stations 35 years ago. Joel Hoekstra really helps change this band for the better. His style is more to the point but retains that guitar hero feel. "Talking Like Strangers" is a solid rocker as is the the more laid back "Need Each Other". The latter starts as a mid-tempo power ballad that kicks into overdrive. Deen is in great voice on this entire record. His current stint with Journey is keeping his vocal chords in fine working order. Of course the drumming throughout is impeccable and grounded.
"Kids Will Be Kids" is another concise standout track. Del Vecchio adds his powerful background vocals to Castronovo's high tenor. The blend is quite impressive especially with a good pair of headphones on. "I'll Cry For You Tonight" is an airy orchestral arrangment that nears ballad status but Hoekstra and Pilson keep you occupied with their instrumental back and forth. The bridge into the guitar solo is classic. "Crime of The Century" is more reminscient of older Rev Saints with it's guitar growl intro and a somewhat melancholy hook. Deen's drums are front and center.
"Set Yourself Free" is a guitar showcase for Hoekstra who builds and cranks the amps while Deen and Alessandro almost duet with both voices intertwined at certain moments. "Sacred" is a driving FM radio ready rocker that has a nice sonic sheen to it. In general this album is near perfect for radio airplay. "Once More" opens with an orchestral piano with both Deen and Alessandro vocalizing. The refrain is moody and Joel H makes good on some great guitar fills. "Save it All" is an uptempo high energy closer.
The vocal arrangements are going to prove to be very important for listeners on this record. These are top notch musicians. These are super well written songs. There is no low point on the record where you would fast forward to the next song. Deen Castronovo has found a new voice. Jeff Pilson is now in yet another rock band and sounds perfect there. And Joel Hoekstra makes a meaningful impact throughout. The big surprise is how Alessandro Del Vecchio is the unsung 4th man. He adds really impressive vocals and different keyboard sounds. You probably won't find a better melodic rock album in 2023. There's just too much talent here and the music is stubbornly catchy and polished. The Revolution Saints have taken flight with their Mach II lineup and the sky's the limit as to how far this new band will go.
Album Rating 9.8
