Following on from 2007's Voices Of Rock debut the partnership of German producers, songwriters and musicians Michael Voss (MSG, Mad Max) and Chris Lausmann (Bonfire, Jaded Heart) have reunited for this follow up where they have again recruited some of the finest melodic rocks vocalists on the scene. No fewer than ten guest vocalists are featured, each taking one track apiece, before Voss steps up to the mic for the closing 'Maniac' (included as a bonus tack with the limited edition digi-pack). What is also noticeable is that none of the names featured this time around appeared on the debut as Voss and Lausmann have gone for a fresh approach.
There are several soaraway highlights amongst an album that is literally bursting with huge choruses, powerful riffs and melodic grooves. The unmistakable Joe Lynn Turner seems to be involved in so many different projects it is surprising he finds the time but on the mid-tempo 'Tonight' he delivers a performance that oozes class. Former Quiet Riot and Rough Cutt frontman Paul Shortino steps up for the Def Leppard-esque 'Rock Me', an immediate and chorus heavy song that is arguably better than anything on his recent solo effort Chasing My Dream (also produced by Voss). Halfway through the CD it is power ballad time with Rob Rock and 'Remember Me'. Rock has recently reunited with Impellitteri and again he sounds rejuvenated and revitalised on this smooth radio friendly track. The quality control is maintained throughout with former Shy and current TNT vocalist providing his usual first rate performance on the contemporary rocker 'In The Heart Of The Young' that is based around an insistent yet laid-back groove and also boasts some sparkling guitar work.
There is always a danger with these kind of projects that they will sound like a thrown together collection of songs but what Voss and Lausmann have released is a genuine album that should be well received by the melodic rock community.
Track Listing
01. Into The Light (Tony Martin)
02. Shame On You (Bert Heerink)
03. Tonight (Joe Lynn Turner)
04. Rock Me (Paul Shortino)
05. Remember Me (Rob Rock)
06. Lay You Down To Rest (Mitch Malloy)
07. In The Heart Of The Young (Tony Mills)
08. Dirty Games (David Reece)
09. Down The Drain (Paul Sabu)
10. Only 4 Ever (Torben Schmidt)
11. Maniac (Michael Voss)
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