Grand Illusion: Prince Of Paupers

Bursting back on the AOR scene after a five year absence, 2010's Brand New World from Grand Illusion proved that glossy, melodic rock music could hit home with power and passion, while being no less hook laden and super smooth for doing so. The album was a mighty wallop of crunching, yet bright riffs, singing keyboards and utterly glorious vocal melodies. And guess what? They've only gone and done it again!

With the backbone of bassist, guitarist and keyboard player Anders Rydholm and vocalists Per Svenson and Peter Sundell once again being augmented by the drumming powerhouse that is Gregg Bissonette (David Lee Roth), Prince Of Paupers picks up from exactly the spot where its glorious predecessor left off. Once again melody and hooks are the key to creating some stunningly memorable songs that stick in the head like glue while still containing enough oomph and virtuoso musicianship to make that initial impression a long lasting one. The likes of "Gates Of Fire", "On And On" and "Eyes Of Ice" combine a lethal concoction of brooding guitars, pompous keyboards and crystal clear vocals to great effect, whereas "Believe In Miracles" or "So Faraway" are expertly crafted ballads – the likes of which were once top ten chart hits in the US. In fact Rydholm once again has written some beautifully poised music which highlights his deft touch and eye for a razor sharp chorus. Really he is one of the most under rated musicians and song writers currently operating in this genre, which the anthemic, uplifting "Through This War" also illustrates perfectly.

As with the previous GI album there is also a list of cameo appearances to bolster the core of the group with guitarists Tim Pierce (Rick Springfield), Jay Graydon (Airplay) , Muris Varajic and Kjell Klaesson all contributing. However it is the addition of Toto supremo Steve Lukather to that list that will raise most interest, although in truth Prince Of Paupers stand tall and proud with or without the talented guest list.

If irresistible AOR that combines keys, guitar and vocals in equal measure is even of passing interest to you, then this is an album you really should make the effort to track down. In short Grand Illusion and Prince Of Paupers is simply far too good to ignore.

Track Listing
1. Gates Of Fire
2. Better Believe It
3. Prince Of Paupers
4. So Faraway
5. St. Teresa's Love
6. Through This War
7. Eyes Of Ice
8. Gone
9. Believe In Miracles
10. On And On
11. Under The Wire
12. Winds Of Change

Added: October 28th 2011
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Grand Illusion Official Web Site
Hits: 3153
Language: english

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