September 14th will see the reintroduction of Harry Hess (ex-Harem Scarem) to the microphone & North America. And let me say, Harry, we've missed you. From the team of top-notch AOR writers (Erik Martensson, Martin Brothers, Richard Marx)to the amazing production of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Khymera), this release is truly a treat for the ears.
The opening track, "This City" , gets things going with an intro reminiscent of Journey's outstanding "Never Walk Away" from Revelation. The bridge reminds one of "One Love" from JSS's current W.E.T. project. If you can't roll the windows down & cruise 80mph to this track, just get off the road. You're taking up space.
Next up is "When You Believe", complete with Journey-style intro keys from Eric Ragno. Groove, groove, groove. Another large layered chorus and Harry is back in early 90's form.
"Part Of Me" takes the album in an updated direction. This is the first of two Richard Marx-penned tunes. This would not have been out of place on Harem's final album "Hope". Contemporary rocker and quite good after a few listens.
Ballad "Crazy" is decidedly a newer Harem-style change of pace. Some nice piano and the typical Hess-delivered vocal.
"Goodbye To The Good Times" starts with some country-flavored guitar, switches to a funky style a la Jeff Scott Soto, then blasts into the chorus chock full of melody. It almost reminds me of a latter-80's Bad Company tune.
Title song "First Signal" has hints of modern rock until the bridge, when a wonderfully delivered guitar riff plays behind the vocals. Again the chorus is LARGE.
"Feels Like Love This Time" starts with some steel guitar (?). This tune really shows Harry's AOR range. Reminiscent of the melody used in Bon Jovi's "Stick To Your Guns". Once again, huge vocals.
"Into The Night" starts out rather modern rock-ish and holds that energy throuhout. Decent tune, although slightly forgettable.
The second Marx song "When November Falls" is a contemporary tune. Well written and a softer melody than the rest of the disc. This could easily have been recorded by Def Leppard for their X album.
"Yesterday's Rain" brings the riffs back. The chorus is quite Eclipse-ish, which only makes sense with Erik Martensson involved. Great vocals by Harry.
Finishing off the album is "Naked Desire", an old Mark Free demo. Harry plows through this in typical fashion, bringing an end to an outstanding listening experience.
I could sum this up all day long, but I'll leave you with this: If you like driving grooves, huge choruses, and well-written AOR, get this. Now. Don't wait. Go now... What are you still doing sitting there?
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