When the boys in Harem Scarem announced they were dissolving the band in 2008, many in the melodic rock world were stunned. The band had, at that point, risen to the height of royalty in their genre and were in the stages of recording the very strong "Hope" offering. The members went on to other projects, most notably singer Harry Hess with First Signal and guitarist Pete Lesperance with the solo "Fade Into Stars".
Come 2013, Harem made a triumphant return, playing the entire Mood Swings record at Melodic Rock Fest . Then in September 2014, it was announced that they were returning with the aptly titled "Thirteen", with preorders and special offers made through Pledge Music, along with exclusive videos from inside the studio. Needless to say, many, including this writer, were interested to see what direction this would take.
Well, clearly the time apart has done nothing to diminish the skills or abilities of Harem Scarem to deliver the same magic they've employed for over 20 years. "Thirteen" is a slice of massive hooks and the melodies the band is most known for.
"Garden Of Eden" opens with a driving, energetic guitar riff that lopes along like a hilly, twisting highway. Harry has not lost any ability over the years to hit those high, powerful notes. Another great album opener in the spirit of "Human Nature".
"Live It" is something I've never really heard from the guys before. There's a distinct rocked-up country feel to the verses, with a huge nod to the poppier sensibilities of Queen, especially in Pete's guitar tone and phrasing. In fact, one would swear that Brian May actually guested on the solo. Again, another mulit-layered chorus the band has always delivered.
"Early Warning Signs" turns harder with a galloping opening riff, more in tune with something off "Hope", before resolving itself in an upbeat tone in the chorus. Once again, the band tips a cap to their Queen influence, inflected with a little of the Rubber era of the band.
Next up, "The Midnight Hours" really brings the first part of the album to a stunning conclusion. The moody, reggae-reminiscent verses create just the right tension for the imminent explosion that the chorus provides. This is one of the best melodies Harry and Pete have put on record in quite some time, maybe since the nearly perfect "Weight Of The World". This song deserves to be pushed to all media and pushed hard.
The first ballad shows up at the mid-point and it was well worth the wait. "Whatever It Takes" starts with vocal/piano/acoustic before lifting into a classic Harem Scarem chorus. Having Darren Smith and Harry together really gives the vocals an epic feel. Their voices are the perfect blend, delivering a passionate, emotional performance. Harry and Pete's ability to write pop-infused rock is on full display. Another track that I anticipate being released as a single.
The opening riff of "Saints And Sinners" is heavily reminiscent of "Baby With A Nail Gun" from the "Believe" album. A good uptempo rocker that showcases Lesperance's 6-string abilities. Here, Pete throws out some love for another of his influences Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme. So far, the band is doing a great job of melding personalities as this song has verse nods to "Believe", but the chorus harkens to "Hope".
What should be tapped as another strong single possibility, "All I Need" is tailor made for the current music scene. A modern sounding midtempo rocker with a catchy, stripped down chorus, this song has several elements present throughout the bands history. The post-solo breakdown section showcases the exquisite vocal work of Harry Hess. A quite uplifting tune with a good message. The standout of the album for me.
"Troubled Times" starts out with a driving riff that moves throughout the verses, giving way to a yet another very melodic chorus. Hess/Lesperance has always reminded me of the Canadian equivalent of Bon Jovi/Sambora and up to this point, they have done nothing to diminish that opinion.
"Never Say Never" begins with a darker, brooding riff/verse, much harder than the previous tracks. Still, the layered vocals are prominent throughout. The chorus slowly builds before releasing the tension at the end. A deep album cut that has its place.
The album concludes with "Stardust", another midtempo track in the verses. Lighter shades come out in the melody-heavy chorus, giving this closer a certain melancholy feel. Maybe the least accessible track on the album, it will take a couple listens for the arrangement to fully reveal itself.
Overall, fans of Harem Scarem should be pleased with this product, as it touches on several eras of the band's history, while newcomers will find the melodies and production new and exciting. The strengths of this disc are evident in the first 2/3rd's, displaying the songwriting of Hess/Lesperance and showcasing the soaring choruses that bands such as Eclipse and W.E.T. are currently enjoying success with. One thing is clear after several listens: Harem Scarem are back with a vengeance and prove they can do the legacy proud no matter how much time it takes to produce a follow up.
