Streetlore - Streetlore (Album Review) Art of Melody Music Italy

Here in the United States we have no idea how much of our old music is being replicated in other countries nowadays. The music of the 70s, 80s and early 90s. There are bands from Europe that love that sound that we ditched back in 1992. Grunge made melody and harmony and big choruses cheesy and a thing to be ridiculed. 

Streetlore assembles the best musicians in Italy to create an epic melodic rock masterpiece. The definitive lineup includes Terry Brock, Jesus Espin, Sue Willets, Dion Bayman, Davide Barbieri, Eric Concas, Stefano Lionetti,  Mario Percudani, Josh Zighetti,  David Geraldino, Satin and Marcello Spera. It's a who's who of melodic Italian rock. It packs a lot of punch yet doesn't sound too much like any one artist from the past. There are influences for sure. 

A great example would be the song "Crossroad" with its exceptional vocals and chorus. The layered background vocals and the classical guitar work set this on it's own path. "Storm" is somewhat like Journey or Night Ranger in tone with some strong keyboard parts and high tenor vocals. The song gets better with each spin. "Friends In Time" sounds like a rock radio hit single. The vocals are clean and the music flows with a punchy guitars and smooth keyboard parts. It's a great rocker with pop tendencies. One of the album's best songs.

"Aeglos" is a big majestic power ballad with orchestral touches and superb drumming. And the guitar solo is absolutely stunning. "Only Wounds Remain" has a great mid-tempo groove that has some pleasant chord progressions. The vocals really kick in with multiple voices blending beautifully. "Shelter From The Rain" features a female vocalist. She reminds me a bit of Grace Slick in Starship. The song is brimming with emotion and combines some traditional American flavor with old school 80's melodic rock tendencies. And classical instrumentation prior to another stellar guitar solo. So far this album is pulling out all the stops. Excellent special guests and great songwriting. 

"Weaker Than Before" is another steady, straight forward rocker with catchy hooks and vocals coming at you from all sides. There are many hit singles to choose from. People just need to hear this. "Shadows and Lies" is another female vocal part in the spirit of Bonnie Tyler. The music is delicate and then powerful as the tune goes full speed. There are classical tendencies big time here and throughout this project. "Gone" is a rocker that ends the album and does so with guitars and drums blazing. Another monster hook and chorus. 

All very satisfying and thoroughly professional melodic rock songs. In the end the Italians are laser focused on melodic rock like America was in the 1980s. Their passion for the genre really comes to life on Streetlore. It's a winner from beginning to end with no filler songs. Just well executed melodic bliss.

Album Rating 9.6