Fire Tiger - All The Time (Album Review)

It's safe to say that Fire Tiger is the only band in the world right now making new music that sounds like 80's pop and rock. Sure there are a lot of melodic rock bands in the world. But few of them capture the style and essence of a decade that most everyone is nostalgic for. And while some might say music like this has no place in an industry dominated by music that is designed by computers, I say it's exactly what the world needs right now.

The band's third album, All The Time is another near flawless collection of songs that put the fun, energy and excitement back into a lifeless industry. Lead vocalist Tiffany Alkouri is a genetic throwback to the look, sound and strut of various female singers from the decade of decadence. Most notably Taylor Dayne, Samantha Fox and Kathy Troccoli. The album's lead track "Don't Take Me Home" is a rock radio friendly tune with a tinge of darkness and desperation. "So Many Fishes" is the perfect pop-rock song that would have topped the charts in 1988. There's even a great saxophone solo! It's an instant hit and would work wonders to liven up any boring adult contemporary playlist on the radio today. 

"Magic Brew" is a follow up single to "Fishes" featuring an addictive chorus the bops along like a Cyndi Lauper song with more melodic mojo. The band down shifts to "Undeniable", a moody, haunting ballad with acoustic guitars, big keyboard textures and Tiff's sultry vocals. Stylistically these guys pull off the unthinkable - they cover all of the rock and pop styles that were in vogue more than three decades ago. "Getaway Song" crosses back into a more rock landscape with guitarist Tyler Renga leading the way. But like every Fire Tiger song, it goes back to the melody lines and the songwriting. These songs are so well thought out. 

"Silly Thing To Do" feels like a Brit-pop new wave song that would have been made into a remixed 12" vinyl dance single. Think General Public or Style Council. "All The Time" (the album's title track) straddles the pop and rock fence with a massive chorus mixed into an 80's smoothie of guitars, keys and powerhouse lead vocals by Tiff. "Solo Poquito" is a latin influenced dance-pop song that emulates Miami Sound Machine or any number of offshoot artists. Bagpipes are the lead instrument on "Flying Solo" which recalls Big Country but with less pomp and more circumstance. The song still chugs along with a Scandal-like urgency. The pipes work extraodinarily well and give the song extra lift.

"Way To My Heart" combines two band types into one amazing song. First, Ace of Base and secondly, Nena on the guitar riff that follows the intro. To say this song is kinda catchy would be the understatement of the decade. "Side of You" is a slower, sparse arrangement that showcases Tiff's incredible range and power. The lyrics make this a gorgeous love song that truly is time travel. "Spider at Midnight" finishes up the album as another mid-tempo track with a ton of keyboard effects. The melody captures an 80's college radio vibe.

Twelve tracks, no filler, no wasted moments. My only complaint is that these songs are too short. But that complaint is based on the fact that I could listen to each song for a longer period of time and that the music is so good that you don't want it to end. Fire Tiger's best work to date. They have CDs, Vinyl and even cassettes for sale. This is the music you remember brought into a decade thrice removed. If you listened to top 40 radio in the 1980's, you have to hear this band!

Album Rating 9.9

Lionville - Magic Is Alive (Album Review)

Lionville is a band the entire world should know. They should be on your local terrestrial radio station. They are a next-generation band for fans of Toto, Journey and Foreigner. They write amazing, catchy, hook-laden songs. Their vocalist, Lars Safsund, also a member of the Swedish band Work of Art, is one of the finest vocalists on the melodic scene today. The band's new album "Magic Is Alive", is a sonic marvel from start to finish. The soaring lead single "Nothing Without You" is one of the strongest radio ready songs you'll hear this year. Lars and guitarist, composer and band founder Stefano Lionetti, have developed a Mick Jones, Lou Gramm partnership. 

"You're Not Alone" is an airy, melodic harmony rich walk on the Toto side of things. "Runaway" nods to Lars' band Work of Art. And yet these similarities don't obscure the listening experience. For those who want a more consistent version of Work of Art, Lionville may be the perfect ticket. Keyboardist Fabrizio Caria does a nice Jonathan Cain impersonation on the lead in to "Finally You're With Me". American 80's music fans will have a lot to celebrate listening to Lionville in the year 2020. "Every Little Thing (Leads Back To You)" is a driving rocker with Lars delivering a powerful vocal with the rest of the band nailing down the groove. West Coast fans will absolutely love "If You Don't Know Me" with its lighter, slightly smoother arrangement. "Living With The Truth" speaks in the Toto dialect again with a dash of Journey and Khymera. All of these songs contain a high dosage of memorable melodic mojo. Lionetti's guitar playing is understated and most effective on the solos. 

"Reaching For The Sky" opens with a funky west coast riff and plenty of room for Lars' vocal expressions. Caria's keyboards employ a nice horn-sounding effect with bass player Giulio Dagnino holding down the bottom end with his partner in sound, drummer Martino Malicrida. This track has some great soloing on keys, guitar and saxophone. I could have listened to this jam for another 10 minutes. "I'll Never Give My Heart Away" blends the west coast motif with a bit of drama and late night rocking. The hook is enormous and the chorus is also a big payoff for the listener. "Into The Night" echoes a Richard Marx template, slow and contemplative with keys and big slow phrasing featuring both acoustic and electric guitars underneath. "Magic Is Alive" ends the set with an infectious dance-rock groove that would be 12" single ready if this were a different time, like 1987. 

The hooks are all monster. The arrangements are largely free of clutter and overproduction. The tunes are all well written and sung. This is certainly one of the best albums of 2020 thus far. The Magic is in the music. Lionville's best work to date.

Album Rating 9.7

Pinnacle Point - Symphony of Mind (Album Review) Via Escape Music

Nobody could have predicted how well the first Pinnacle Point album, Winds of Change, would be received. That first recording struck a chord with classic rock listeners, especially fans of old school Kansas band music. Three years later, the growth of this band is a leap of Neil Armstrong proportions. Jerome Mazza returns to the microphone along with guitarists Torben Enevoldsen and Tommy Denander. Also on guitar and vocals is Rich Ayala. He's joined on bass guitar by Takeaki Itoh and on drums by Mark Prator. 

The first single, Weight of The World, roars out of the gate like a Deep Purple Highway Star. This might be the perfect song for a movie with a high speed car chase. Mazza's vocal tendencies line up impeccably with his hero Steve Walsh. The lines of imitation and flattery are blurred so much that it seems Walsh just handed him the baton. Like the first Pinnacle Point album, an instrumental track opens the set. It's called Ascent To The Point, and it embodies those orchestrations and chord changes that adorn all of the early Kansas records. The violin work on this album is on par with some of the best stuff ever recorded in the rock genre. Valeria Pozaritskaya is an amazing talent on violin and her work helps drive the sound of the entire project. 

"So Alive" is a brilliant track featuring a variety of keyboard sounds as well as an incredible spacey progged out synth solo that will grab you by the ears. The elegant big majesty of this track will draw comparisons to the orchestral long form album tracks Kansas used to be famous for. And as much as this is prog-rock, it also embodies classical and pop forms as well. "Hero" also combines the classical and progressive with scintillating acoustic guitar work. Mazza's voice and Valeria's violin intertwine into a lush tapestry. "Never Surrender" begins with a searing guitar riff that drops to a low rumble but then bursts open with big progressive power chords. Mazza's voice travels up to the ionosphere. Jerome apparently does this stuff with ease. He's truly a gifted, classically trained vocalist. 

"In The Wake of Hope" brims with the old Kansas musical template, but on steroids. Again the violin is vibrant and is clearly the lead instrument. The lyrical themes on Symphony are mostly inspirational and positive. In our current world with it's large problems, this music will be a welcome escape for many. Of note in this song is the instrumental break featuring classical piano, violin and acoustic guitar. This is headphone paradise. "Shadows of Peace" continues the perfect streak of rich, full bodied lyrical and musical concepts. The tempo changes and angelic vocal harmonies are truly mind blowing. Many of these songs clock in between 5 and 6 minutes and there are no wasted moments. In most cases, you'd want them to go on longer. 

"Beyond" begins with a full pallete of sound colors including piano, synth and violin. Acoustic guitars fall in and eventually lead to more dreamy imagery and vocals from Mazza. This might be his most Steve Walsh-like performance especially on the high notes. The synths return for an epic solo. The tempo changes are stunning. "Nothing At All" opens with a Timpani drum roll followed by a beautiful open soundscape highlighting both classical piano and acoustic guitars. Mazza soars yet again. His range is strong and limitless and effortless. "Prodigal" is a grittier rocker featuring keyboard sounds that play off the drums and guitar blasts. And yes, more stunning violin. For those familiar with the album by Kansas called Monolith, this sounds like a lost track. 

The album's title song (and final one) is truly it's Magnum Opus. A sprawling seven minute tribute to Kansas legend Kerry Livgren. It's more than homage to Kerry, it's an acknowledgement of his brilliance and how he was so far advanced in his thinking. There couldn't be a better tribute and I've heard few songs in recent memory that bring this much passion and integrity to a topic. Mazza and his crew sincerely love the early Kansas records. In their zeal, they have crafted their own classic album that will someday be looked back on as an authentic continuation of what Livgren and Walsh started. No better compliment could be paid to a record in the year 2020. This is some indescribably brilliant music that sits on it's own plain far above the din of the noise below. This is the best melodic rock record I've heard this year.

Album Rating 10.0

Bridget Kelly Band - Dark Spaces (Album Review)

The blues underground here in the state of Florida is real. There are numerous bands who could easily stand on the national stage. A band that caught my attention a few years back continues to churn out accessible and meaningful blues rock. That band is the Bridget Kelly Band. Their latest effort is called Dark Spaces. It is yet another chapter in a deepening catalog of sultry, scorching blues rock songs that range from optimistic and fun to dark and thought provoking. Lead vocalist Bridget Kelley seems to get better with age. Her delivery is sultry and smooth, and she really turns up the heat on songs like "Back Seat Love". And the album's title track with it's haunting guitar licks and lyrics that relate to depression or loneliness. Bridget's husband Tim Fik is one of those guitar players you should have heard of. His jangly blues tones often branch out into psychedelic jam band territory. But Tim can also apply a funky groove to those strings. These are musicians who've paid their dues on the live circuit. In fact these tracks have a live-in-the-studio feel to them.

Dark Spaces has plenty of material that will add to an already smoldering live show. "Southern Wind" is an instant favorite featuring an extended southern rock jam that pays homage to bands like the Allmans or Blackberry Smoke. "Your Days Are Numbered" begins with a traditional blues riff and Bridget's snarling lead vocal. A touring band like this benefits greatly in the studio from the constant gigging. Chops are honed and musical parts are nailed with efficiency. Fik unleashes an atomic bomb extended guitar solo on "Days" that will blow way past your expectations. "Free Me" has a made for blues-rock radio feel to it. This band moves seemlessly between blues and more melodic elements. And Tim Fik fashions his solos into their own songs which run through the melody. The band used three different drummers on this record as well as Mark Ambrecht on bass along with Fik who also plays bass on some of the tracks.

"Sky's The Limit" is a danceable blues-rock track with more radio potential. These are all original songs and the material stands on it's own as original and fresh. And even though this is predominantly a blues record, it feels diverse in it's influences. Fans of hard rock will immediately dig all of the extended jams on this record. "In The Spirit (souls in the river)" is a soulful track sung with much passion by Bridget. The lyrics emphasize our connection with the natural world around us. The guitar riff in this song is particularly addictive. "No Use In Tryin'" is a smoldering slow burning blues onslaught. Tim Fik's guitar lights the way for some introspective bluesy lyrics. Fik then unleashes more of his ultraviolet guitar in another amazing solo. "Moments" is more slow or mid-tempo mojo, the perfect music bed for Bridget's sultry story telling. "Things About To Change" is an excellent mid-tempo southern rock flavored blues track filled with lyrics about optimism and grace. This particular track hit me hard with all of what is going on in the world today.

"Someone To Hold On To" immediately reminded me of Buddy Guy or B.B. King in it's demeanor. Add some sultry singing and you've got yet another great BKB original. "Sometimes You Gotta Dance" wraps the whole thing up with some rockin', upbeat grooves. Still flavored with plenty of Tim Fik guitar pyrotechnics.

This is another in a series of raw, well crafted blues rock records. The band keeps it simple, and certainly all these songs will be perfect for the live stage whenever that happens again. The Bridget Kelly Band continues to deliver consistent, original music that will have you thinking or have you dancing, or possibly both at the same time.

Album Rating 9.6

Pinnacle Point and Jerome Mazza Return With Blistering New Single "Weight of The World"

Escape Music has released a brand new single from the band Pinnacle Point. It is the first taste of their new album Symphony of Mind. Jerome Mazza has been called the heir to the Steve Walsh musical estate. His vocals are remarkably similar with a warmer feel. In addition, Mazza and guitarist Torben Enevoldsen have managed to capture a rockin' retro Kansas sound mixed with Deep Purple and Rush. The writing style is progressive and melodic at the same time. Listeners can sing these lyrics and be enveloped by some great vocal harmonies as they rock down the road with their windows down. I am certainly looking forward to the full album which drops on July 17th. Make sure you pre-order a copy.

Pre-Order A Copy

Wild Souls - Queen of My Heart (Album Review)

Hard rock and metal music can be found all over the world these days. Kavala Greece is a beautiful spot on planet earth and it is the home of Wild Souls. Their latest effort is called Queen of My Heart. Melodic hard rock with influences like Extreme, Poison, Van Halen and Whitesnake. The music has a real swagger. A real dose of self confidence.  

George Nikolaou handles lead vocals. Kostas Tsiligiris plays lead guitar. Michael Saraglou plays the drums. Athanasios Kalantzopolous plays guitar and Misconception Bdm plays bass. From the opening notes of "Nothing But Loving You" the band executes their plan perfectly. This feels like Motley Crue, and Van Halen and familiar primal urge territory. The chord changes aren't always predictable. There are melodic guitar fills and hooks that are big without being redundant or predictable. 

A searing guitar and drum attack begins "Night Groove" as the song rocks along like a train picking up speed. Nikolaou's vocals take on different characteristics for different songs. I heard some Gary Cherone here for sure. A synth keyboard and pulsating bass guitar open "Love Ain't No Lie" as if the band were paying homage to Bon Jovi's early hit "Runaway". "Ready To Rock" has some blues-metal overtones while reinstating that primal drum onslaught. 

This is music you crank loud with the top down in your vintage 70's muscle car. "Queen of My Heart" is a Vandenberg-like power ballad with string sounding keyboards and building acoustic and electric guitars. It's also a tune David Coverdale could have written. "Sexecellent" is exactly what you might think it's about. It's got some David Lee Roth swagger and lyrical references and a touch of "Panama" or "Drop Dead Legs" in it. 

The keyboards come back for "I Remember You". The band employs a thoughtful twin-guitar attack and at times some emotive vocal arrangements. These songs have instant appeal without being too derivative of one style. "Set Me Free" has a mono-bluesy intro and outro that echoes early Whitesnake. The body of the track is very reminiscent of "Love Ain't No Stranger" or something close to it. The guitar solo is a beautiful work of art. The retro keyboards are magical. 

One of my favorite tracks from this collection. "Snakebite" has a very Lynch Mob vibe to it as blues and rock collide. "Hold Me Tight" felt like a Stone Fury song with a less pompous vibe. A bit more straight ahead without the drama, but still with plenty of emotion. "Beyond The Stars" is very Blizzard of Oz with some fast guitar work and strong vocals and rocking chord progressions. Not to mention the drums and bass that chug along with abandon. "Street Eagles" opens with an actual eagle screech that then settles into a very moody and atmospheric hard rocking closer with big vocal refrains. 

It's arena rock that is designed to reach the cheap seats. It's all done with an ear for the classic characteristics of many different bands from the past. Each song has it's own unique qualities. This is a band that truly understands the past and is building on it. This is a fine collection of songs for old school fans of hard rock and metal.

Album Rating 9.5

Dennis DeYoung - 26 East Volume 1 (Album Review)

When the rock history books are revised someday, by people who revere decent music, musicians like Dennis DeYoung might finally get their due. DeYoung was banished from the band he made successful more than 20 years ago. He's also never been considered for the rock and roll of fame. He is actually part of a long list of tragic omissions that grows by the day. Dennis really had nothing left to prove. He's been touring as a solo act since he was forced to fight in court for some modicum of ownership of the thing he created. And in recent years, there's been a growing chorus of folks who believe Styx ought to have one last hurrah with the man who did the most to make their continued existence possible.

If it weren't for friend and fellow Chicagoan Jim Peterik, 26 East Volume 1 might have never been a reality. Peterik is another unheralded genius who also deserves Hall of Fame recognition. He was obviously an inspiration and sounding board for Dennis. These songs are both autobiographical and cathartic while dispelling the myth that DeYoung is only a schmaltzy balladeer. This is a diverse collection brimming with creativity, familiarity and the musings of a man who's still asking good questions.

"East of Midnight" opens things by sounding like a dead ringer for something Styx could have recorded in the late 1970's. August Zadra, who is the Tommy Shaw character on stage with Dennis's live band is ever present on this album, doing a better than Tommy version of Shaw. His vocal harmonies, along with almost-Journey front man Kevin Chalfant buoy the vocal textures of 26 East, giving it a luster that should appeal to the intellectually honest folks listening. "East of Midnight" is the perfect melding of prog-Styx and Dennis's nostalgia prone lyrics. Next comes one of the most surprising songs of DeYoung's solo career. Listening to the track, I was thinking how Dennis would have allowed "J.Y." James Young to handle the spoken word intro to the song if Styx was still in tact. DDY is not buying the news media these days. And people from all sides of the political spectrum can embrace his searing commentary. "With All Due Respect" contains a super charged unforgettable chorus along with a dirty guitar riff that sounds part Meat Loaf and part Alice Cooper. The song would likely get a thumbs down from the PMRC, the same idiots that came after Styx in the 1980's for alleged satanic lyrics and backward masking. The salty language is extremely appropriate given the subject matter.

"A Kingdom A Blaze" steps up the societal critique. General observations about politics and the environment, all spot on pertinent. The melody begins quietly and then explodes with DeYoung and Zadra blending their voices into a passionate refrain. The song is like Styx and Pink Floyd combined. "You My Love" is a beautiful ballad that feels very Paul McCartney with elements of early 60's radio fare. DeYoung's voice has held up remarkably well for a guy who is now 73 years old. "Run For The Roses" is a song about what is truly important. Do we seek material success or do we value family and the simple things in life? Kind of a timely song as the world slowly recovers from a pandemic. The chorus contains a large memorable hook followed by an old school guitar solo. "Damn That Dream" is another autobiographical track that examines insecurity and inferiority. Dennis composes yet another very large hook with Zadra providing more Styx-tones with his vocal fills. "Unbroken" has a more adult contemporary vibe that feels as radio ready as anything on this collection. Clearly this record was not just thrown together. DeYoung is still vocally nimble enough to hit low and high notes in the same song, adding real color and tone to these soundscapes. "The Promise of This Land" looks back at what we were all told growing up as Americans. The dream is real. This place is special. This is boomer talk at it's most optimistic. DeYoung believes in the promise, but is it still possible? The musical template alternates between progressive and pop. It's classic Dennis. There is hope that maybe we can rekindle. "To The Good Old Days" is a breathtaking post card featuring Julian Lennon on vocals. DeYoung caught the Beatles bug at a young age and this song likely fulfilled a need he had to pay homage to his heroes. Their voices work wonderfully and it's just great to hear Julian again. The 1990's more or less ended his radio presence after a strong run of albums. A.D. 2020 is a fitting outro. A reprise of the A.D. tracks on Styx's Paradise Theater album, using the same melody.

I am a biased reviewer. This would have to be a really bad album for me not to like it. I am a big fan of DeYoung. I think his former band mates owe him an apology and a larger share of their earnings. They owe the fans a reunion too. The material on 26 East Volume 1 validates the genius that is Dennis DeYoung. The arguments made against Dennis these days come from desperate souls in cyberspace who might be part of the angst and turmoil DeYoung is writing about in some of these songs. If this truly is a swan song, it's a loud, bold one that puts an exclamation point on a career that could have been far more active in recent years. What Dennis does on this album more than anything else is reaffirm the notion that he was the most important part of Styx. And keep in mind this is volume 1. Thankfully more music awaits before Dennis calls it a solo career.

Album Rating 10.0

The Proven Ones - You Ain't Done (Album Review)

What do the Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Rolling Stones and Wilson Pickett have in common? They more or less sound like the Proven Ones if you mix them altogether. Singer Brian Templeton brings a soulful swagger to the mic. A seasoned pro who has spent years honing his vocal chops. Their new record "You Ain't Done" is a gritty throwback to the bluesier elements of classic rock radio. This is not a bogged down blues album though. This is mostly good time rock and roll with a soulful groove. Guitarist Kid Ramos channels all of your favorite old time players. His grooves are both dirty and fun at the same time.

"Get Love" and it's instrumental intro feel like B.B. King or Eric Clapton with lots of horns. The bar has already been raised to a high place if this is your introduction to the band. "Gone To Stay" which was the first single released from the album, is a burning, stomping, ranting sing-a-long with a catchy chorus and and equally memorable horn section. Jimi Bott's drumming has a Charlie Watts feel as he sets the table for "You Ain't Done", the title track to the record. The song is a soulful shuffle augmented by more well placed horns and Anthony Geraci's fine array of keyboard sounds. Ramos and Geraci tag team amazingly well thorough this record. One can envision a live jam of any of these songs that could last long after last call.

"Already Gone" feels very Fab Thunderbirds but with more vocal harmonies. The arrangements and production values on this album will impress you from start to finish. The band duets with Ruthie Foster on "Whom My Soul Loves", a track that could be mistaken for something from the Stax era. "Milinda" keeps the string of close to perfect going with a more laid back approach between all the players. "Nothing Left To Give" feels very Santana, with a more Latin approach, and with plenty of opportunity for Ramos and bass player Willie Campbell to really stretch out and explore some new territory. And there's great percussion which really gives this track it's own vibe. "She'll Never Know" is another less is more soul track with an infectious groove. "I Ain't Good For Nothing" is a tongue and cheek blues number with a New Orleans feel to it. "Fallen" is more of a rocker with fiery guitar leads and Ramos growling his way through it. "Favorite Dress" is the most Stones-like tune with a riff that emulates "Jumpin' Jack Flash" to some extent. The tune expands further from there into a potent blues rocker.

This ends up being an amazing journey of rock, soul and blues. These are all well crafted songs. They are all instant classics. Well written, well produced and ready for consumption. This is the kind of music that used to be the norm rather than the exception. If you are looking to start a party, "You Ain't Done" is the perfect album for such an occasion.

Album rating 9.8

Saints Trade - Time To Be Heroes (Album Review)

Saints Trade is an Italian melodic rock band from Bologna, Italy. Their album is called Time To Be Heroes. The band is living just a few miles from the epicenter of a global pandemic. The title of the album may be mere coincidence or perhaps fate. There are three members of this band listed. They are Santi Libra on vocals, Andrea Sangermano on bass and Claus on guitars. Obviously there is a drummer not listed playing some solid fills on this record. On first listen there is a Quiet Riot meets Toto thing going on. I know those are two bands that typically don't go together. The rock and holler style meets melodic and precise excursions. Fans of heavier stuff and AOR oriented material can kinda hang in for the same song. "Livin' To Rock" opens with a catchy riff coupled with some sprawling keyboards and well placed call and answer vocals. At first listen this could be a number of different bands. Kiss, Van Halen, Journey, Firehouse...These Italians have gleaned from the best.

"Night Children" leans on another big riff and then some fine noodling. Libra's vocals are reliable and carry enough weight to keep the party going. The high harmonies have a Damn Yankees thing going on. "Destiny" is more Toto than Quiet Riot except for the big blasting chorus of vocals. Like a sophisticated metal party without the bleeding nostrils. "Higher" employs a bluesy riff that settles into a chord that feels very Twisted Sister or Survivor. It's a killer music bed to sing over and the band makes the most of it. "Two As One" is a slow building power ballad; something XYZ or Vandenberg could have written. The guitar tone is perfect for the emotion in the song. So far, so good. Oftentimes when I write about bands from Italy there is something lost in the translation. Not so with Saints Trade. They truly get how to do this. "Queen of Love" is a straight ahead rocker that finds a nice little power hook. The band glides over it, but surprisingly they change tempo hard and then revert back to the punkish melodic groove. "Born Hunter" is an instant radio classic, with a ginormous riff and some sweet chord changes along with huge choruses.

"Hills of Sarajevo" has a different feel to it. More progressive and serious in nature. There are still some epic chord combinations and a wonderful guitar solo. "Twist In The Tail"is an attempt at a dramatic story line. Not sure it works as intended, but it gets points for the attempt. "The Rose" returns to a more straight forward hard rock sound. Not quite as many hooks as the previous material. "Middle of Nowhere" is a hybrid rocker with ballad like tendencies. A bit repetitive. The band is still hitting on all cylinders musically speaking but might be running a bit thin on lyrical ideas. Still a strong record that will make any melodic rock collection better.

Album Rating 8.8

Albert Castiglia - Live At The Funky Biscuit (Album Review)

Albert Castiglia is slowly, but surely becoming a blues legend. In the state of Florida his name is getting fairly close to being a household word. His latest album, Wild and Free should expose Albert to a national audience. The recording is an inferno of blues guitar pyrotechnics. You can feel the sparks flying out. Castiglia is a gritty, soulful singer. His rough and tumble delivery is only matched by his guitar work, which is literally on par with any of the blues guitar greats you can think of. At one point Albert was the lead guitarist in Junior Wells' band. He's only sharpened his craft in recent years.

This live performance showcases a musician at the top of his game. Close to 70 minutes of off the hook blues-rock played to near perfection.  Tracks to crank up loud include "Big Dog", "Hoodoo On Me", "Get Your Ass In The Van" and " I Tried To Tell Ya". Truth is, the entire album rocks from start to finish. This is an artist in his element in a small venue, just tearing it up. This might be the best live album you will hear this year. Special guest Mike Zito duels on guitar with Albert making this an even more memorable event. Most albums start slow and build. This one starts at full throttle and never lets up.

Album rating 9.9

John Blues Boyd - In My Blood (Album Review)

John Blues Boyd has a backstory. And rather than going into detail about it in print, you can actually listen to it on his new album from Gulf Coast Records entitled "In My Blood". The album's title track lyrically sets the stage, "the blues is in my DNA". Born in the 1940's, Boyd has lived the blues in a way that is not a celebration of all that is right with American life. These are struggles that most of us gloss over. Boyd uses it as "inspiration" for these real life memories that are made into authentic, soulful and heartfelt music.

"What My Eyes Have Seen" is a swampy history lesson of struggle and injustice. Boyd preaches like an Old Testament prophet calling out from the wilderness. The arrangements are tastefully assembled. There are soulful horns and a bluesy tribal beat. The guitar work throughout is stellar and complimentary. Kid Andersen and Guy Hale help write, arrange and produce. Their attention to detail and reverence for Boyd himself makes for a contemporary blues album with a traditional feel to it. The keyboards on "I Hear The Blues Somewhere" add a 60's rock dimension to a pure blues composition. Mix in some fine lead guitar work and the appropriate amount of harmonica, and you've got a blues radio classic.

"On The Run" is a re-tell of actual events relating to the civil rights movement of the 1960's. The lyrics will jolt you into a reality that few of us have experienced. The story being juxtaposed by a perky blues arrangement peppered with horns and guitars. Boyd's simple storytelling swagger is a gift for both historians and lovers of old soul. "Her Name Was Dona Mae" is a delightful story about Boyd's wife. Throughout the record there are short interludes called "My Memory, Pt. 1,2,3 and 4". Boyd tells a brief story over some church organ sounds and what might be cricket sound effects. Much like snapshots at various times in John's life.

"Oh California!" is joyful tune about a refugee from Mississippi who escaped the insipid racism that drove him away. "The Singing Roofer" is a swinging autobiographical track that glorifies swinging the hammer in the hot sun. Kid Andersen's arrangements elevate these working class anthems to higher musical terrain. "Forty Nine Years" is a showcase for all the musicians involved, clocking in at over 6 minutes. It's a closing time jazz-infused torch burner. "I Got To Leave My Mark" is blues radio ready. A mid-tempo bouncer featuring some sweet guitar lines and the perfect amount of horns.

Boyd closes the album singing about the hard life that makes this recording a cathartic experience. These aren't just lyrics, they are things that are stuck in Boyd's head. And his willingness to share them with us all makes this more than just a blues album. This is a dark and sometimes joyful history lesson of America's ongoing evolution from injustice to awareness. It's a process that hasn't been fully realized yet.

Album rating 9.4

DeCarlo - Lightning Strikes Twice (Album Review Redux)

Tommy DeCarlo is the current lead singer of Boston. He was one of the greatest replacement singers in rock history. His vocal similarities with the late Brad Delp are remarkable. DeCarlo reinvigorated the Boston brand about 10 years ago and has toured with the band extensively and even recorded a new album with the group. Tommy ends up being more than just a a good sound-alike. He's studied the Boston way. He'd sung their songs backwards and sideways long before he got the gig. And his ability to let the music do the talking is something you'll hear from start to finish on DeCarlo's debut album Lightning Strikes Twice.

Rather than reinventing the wheel, Tommy and his son Tommy Jr, bring the wheel back! Tommy DeCarlo, Jr.'s guitar work is a masterful tribute to all of the fine players from the Boston tradition, including Tom Scholtz himself. And Tommy D has mastered the Boston keyboard sound and has composed some parts that replicate the past in a fresh way. Songwriting is not an easy task. There are only so many note combinations and unused phrases in the universe. Yet Tommy has managed to find 12 new and interesting combinations that will blow you away.

"A Better Day" opens the album with dueling crisp acoustic guitars as TD glides over a soundscape the builds with harmony vocals. The message in the song is simple and optimistic. The inspiration comes directly from the first two Boston albums. But even more so, there is a direct honesty in the lyrics. There aren't any political messages or difficult to grasp concepts. This is "Dancin' in the streets of Hyannis" on steroids. "You Are The Fire" showcases a potent mix of acoustic and electric guitars as Tommy's voice soars. In the old days, especially in the 1980's, you might refer to this as power pop. The guitar tone pays homage to Boston, and the guitar solo is sugary sweet. Not sure why radio here in the states would shun something that would light up their phone lines again, that is if they have a studio line.

"Give Love A Try" has a bass line that reminds me of Foreigner's Juke Box Hero, at least at the outset, but then moves toward more ethereal textures. Again Tommy Jr lays down a masterful solo that parodies David Gilmour a little bit. "Into The Storm" (instrumental) leads into the ginormous hook of "Lightning Strikes Twice". In the old format, you'd play these two tracks together for maximum FM radio joy. This is one of those hooks that is going to stay in your brain long after the song is over. "Still In Love" is a beautiful melodic power ballad that begins with just piano which then progresses into a band effort with electric and acoustic guitars and lush harmonies. "Rock N'Soul" takes a page out of the Foreigner handbook, but in a brand new way. Tommy Jr.'s crisp guitar work is juxtaposed with some terrific saxophone.

"There She Goes" is the should-be #1 rock radio single. A perfect melody, with all of the Boston essentials. If this was released in 1989 it would have done well on both rock and top 40 formats. And the guitar and keyboard solos are both phenomenal. "Stand Up (Play Ball)" sounds like a great Boston B-side, or something that was left off of "Don't Look Back". Tommy and crew have a formula and they stick to it with great discipline. "The One" is another exquisite power ballad that showcases Tommy DeCarlo's smooth vocals. Chicago the band called and said they want their 1984 melody back. "Gotta Go" sounds a bit like Hagar-era Van Halen mixed with Boston and Journey. More thoughtful and interesting keyboards and guitars from both Tommys. "I Think I Fell In Love With You" is another great hybrid song, with quiet and upbeat parts. And great voice blending toward the end of the song.

All of these songs possess radio potential. This would be a multi-platinum album if it were released in 1987. In 2020 it streams for free and radio is mostly silent because as I've said a thousand times on here, there is no support system for excellent music like this anymore. Tommy DeCarlo has harnessed the Boston legacy and moves it forward dramatically. And he did this without even a tiny acknowledgment from the music industry. It goes without saying that if you like Boston or Foreigner or even Journey, this album is for you. In fact, at this point it's the best melodic rock release of 2020.

Album Rating 10.0

Steel City - Mach II (Album Review)

They say rock is dead. I would argue that it's on life support. And bands like Steel City are the medics that have been called in to help save the patient. Their new album Mach II is a glorious and bombastic throwback to the glory days of mainstream rock radio. The band's DNA contains strands of Warrant, Winger, Deep Purple, Van Halen, Skid Row and Extreme to name just a few. The big choruses and fat original guitar riffs are like being led to an uncharted dessert island of bikini clad women. This is a joyful rediscovery of what makes rock great. Vocalist Roy Cathey is a cross between Sebastian Back and the late Jani Lane. He's got incredible range and can do stuff that the auto-tune crowd can't even do with the auto-tune. Guitarist Mike Floros is a gifted player and stretches out on almost every track. BJ Zamba is an absolute beast on the drums. Bass player Jason Cornwell holds down the bottom end with fast and furious playing. And keyboardist Tony Stahl is a master of the synth and the organ.  Now before you drop the needle, or close the lid on your CD player, grab an ice cold beer and hunker down for some glam-infused melodic rock.

"Hearts On Fire" is perfect 80's formula with Kiss like choruses and Rainbow like guitar and keyboard excursions. It's an instant hit song and technically the lead single from Mach II. Zamba's drum intro on "Dead Men" levels into a rocker with some melodic-pop mojo. Cathey's vocals have a touch of Dio swagger. The choruses again echo around as if custom made for a large stadium. "Steel Your Heart" opens with high tech synth that gives way to some tasty guitar work from Floros and the cranium occupying chorus of "Steel Your". There is a bit of dramatic tension in these chord progressions. Cathey and the band compliment these rock radio rhythms with sugary vocal offsets. The blend is a fusion of pop and harder melodic rock at it's finest.

Bass player Jason Cornwell is front and center for the punchy intro to "Wasted Time". A slower but very powerful hook that rises and falls. This sounds like a Bon Jovi track recorded by Deep Purple. A super high point on this record for me. This is what mainstream rock used to sound like. Floros unleashes a guitar solo that rivals many of the brand name players you grew up listening to. The keyboard break at the end could have gone on for another 2 minutes or so and I would have cheered. "I Cry" sounds like something Vixen would have recorded if they were guys. There is a street smart authenticity to these tracks. Even though melody is not in vogue these days, to do this song after song is not easy. "A Little Love" opens with another hit single sounding monster hook. The chorus is a lush sleet storm of voices and Floros grinds his guitar into a frenzy on the solo.

"Still Close To My Heart" recalls White Lion at their best. An acoustic guitar intro that segues into full speaker vocal textures. The vocal arrangements on this record deserve an award. Cornwell's bass is again front and center on "Give It Back". Floros does his best Eddie Van Halen at the outset as Cathey channels David Lee Roth, except Cathey can actually sing. There is a nice bluesy bent to "Give It Back". This is the kind of writing DLR would approve of. Floros unloads a solo that you can feel in the cheap seats. "Spotlight" is a tight, more concise rocker. Cathey's vocal goes into a gnarly Axl Rose Mr. Brownstone voice for select verses. It's as if an 80's rock buffet is being served up. "Prayer For Love" is a brief piano-synth instrumental showcasing Tony Stahl and would make a great rock radio warm up for the album's last stand - the amazing "Down To One". Cathey injects some tangible emotion into his vocal part and Floros switches up his guitar tone to be more sharp and searing. The mix really makes the song soar. The guitar work and drumming at the end is a stellar way to close.

The summary here is that very few new melodic rock albums make me listen repeatedly. When I finished this record, I put it on again and again. This band throws everything they have at the 1980's and that includes the kitchen sink. They make it work because they know how to properly dress these songs in the right musical garb. They also write very good songs. For the fan who wants to go back while still moving forward, Steel City's Mach II is the Delorean you've been waiting for.

Album Rating 9.7