This is solo album number three for the Europe axeman, and the sound is a lot more heavy and edgy this time around. He’s joined on vocals by Kelly Keeling who originally came to prominence singing with Baton Rouge on their debut, but has since seemed to have been the hired gun for everyone.
We get things under way with Inside, a kick ass melodic groover with a strong hook and chorus, and a very tasty riff. Resurrection Time is a whole different beast with a fat huge riff and a kick ass groove with an added killer solo. Superb track! Strange Days is next and it’s a cover of the Humble Pie tune. A slow, dark, heavy blues groove and Norum’s playing is just off the hook on this track, so much feel. Spirit World is up next and the vibe has taken a turn for the funk. Killer hook and chorus and that solo… damn! Shimmering Highs closes out Side 1 and the jaw hits the floor. A slow instrumental that builds, and builds, and it’s all guitar. Freakin’ Awesome! Definitely my favourite track!
Side 2 kicks off with an absolute face melter: Whose Side Are You On. The intro is killer and the groove and riff are superb. Next up is the Cream classic Sunshine Of Your Love. It’s a decent enough rendition, pretty close to the original until the solo then…BOOM! And, that ending is so heavy. Catalina Sunset is next up and John shows his chops on the acoustic with a nice chill out moment. Next up is Half Way Home, a kick ass uptempo rocker with yet another ripping solo. Next to last is Healing Rays. The song starts with some epic guitar and a killer off-tempo groove, and the guitar is off the charts. Onto the last track Jillanna, another acoustic piece. You know, I don’t mind a ballad if the guitar is playing the vocal melody and this is really cool.
If you’ve read a few of my reviews you will know by now that I am a guitar nut, and this album hits all my favourite spots all at the same time. Great record!
10/10 from The Grooveman.
