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Artists: Various |
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For all the bravado and macho posing that is too often shown within the rock community on all levels, it's actually nice to see the compassionate side raising its head from its artists to help out a worthy cause after recent shocking events in Japan. A big "hats off to you all" for those involved with this double-disc 'Rock For Japan' and the great songs that have been allowed to be used in its making. It goes without saying that you get the well known bunch having an input, Dan Reed 'I Don't Mind', House Of Lords 'Spirit Of Love', and the latest darlings of Radio 2, FM 'Kissed' heading that list. One song and singer that stands out the most from said list though is 'The One' by Robin Beck, best known for her 1988 No. 1 hit 'The First Time'. Her powerful voice still as good today, putting today's female "stars" to shame when it comes to vocal ability. Check out her latest album 'The Great Escape'. There are plenty of previously unreleased songs here to choose from, which is why this album stands out from the average one that gets thrown out now and then with the run of the mill songs you usually get. Now c'mon, what would you rather hear? 'Layla', 'Smoke On The Water' and 'Paranoid' for the 3rd time on yet another 'Best Of ...', or the pulsating 'Russian Racketeers' by Poison Sun, the balls n' all Dogface with 'Fired', or even the head-banging live version of 'Anything At All' from Mitch Malloy? Its a no-brainer really. As far as power-ballads go, there are probably two or three too many for such a somber cause, the feeling of too many sad songs maybes uncomfortable for the moment, though Grand Illusion's 'Yumi's Eyes' and 'Say Your Prayers' by Mark Spiro deserve their place by far. It's just as well the rockers are out in force to keep the mood more uplifting, Crown Of Thorns 'I Won't Wait', Tony Harnell's 'One Way Ride' and Doogie White / Pontus Norgren's 'Message Of Love' hitting the mark. You can't escape the effect that the 70's and 80's melodic rock scene is having today, making you think you've stepped back in time to those original "big hair" days and the big sound it had. 'And I Know' by Tommy Heart is ... well, Heart says it all really. It's glossy harmonies and guitar riffs are straight out of Nancy and Ann's "How we did it to death" best seller! Even more so, 'Love Along The way' from Fiona is almost a blatant rip-off of Jefferson Starship's 'Jane'. Just listen to the guitar melody and say it ain't so if you dare! A couple more live songs on this compilation must get a mention, as they both give the impression that you're really at the gig itself, which doesn't happen too often due to the quality of the sound. Royal Hunt's 'Back To Square' and the more atmospheric 'Brothers' by Hartmann featuring Tobias Sammet, both exceptional examples of what can be done for live recordings these days. So there you have it, just a taster on 'Rock For Japan'. Altogether there are 34 tracks over both discs, so everyone will get a bit of what they fancy. Naturally, there's no getting away from why this album has been put together to start with, so please find it in your heart to at least get a listen to it, ideally buy it for two good reasons: - The great selection of songs from some fine artists, but the main one being to help those over in Japan who desperately need help in rebuilding their shattered lives. Thanks. Review
by: Bob Baldwin |
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Tracklisting - Disc 1
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Tracklisting
- Disc 2
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All content copyright of The Mayfair Mall Zine unless otherwise stated. |
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