This was one I was looking forward to as it features FM vocalist Steve Overland and guitarist Steve Morris (Heartland/Ian Gillan), backed by Thunder’s rhythm section of Harry James (drums) and Chris Childs (bass). Opener ‘Thos Days Are Gone’ is a fine hard rockin’ number with a big FM vibe and tasty guitar soloing from Steve Morris. Much of the album is not unlike FM’s latter day blues rock output like ‘Gypsy Heart’ and ‘Waiting For The Good Times’.

Steve Overland shows his worth on the ballad ‘Touched By An Angel’,just proving what a strong voice he has and the power is still there. ‘Count Me Out’ is a gentle melodic number and in a fairer world would be a radio hit. Bonus track ‘If I Had Wings’ is a treat mixing soulful vocals and big drums and guitar riffs. Extremely well played throughout as you’d expect from such a talented and experienced line-up.

Not a classic but there are so few CD’s these days that feature hard rock with the emphasis on melody. If you like FM and Heartland you can’t go wrong (or even latter day Bad Company) plus you’ve got the Ladder album to come that also features Steve Overland, from Escape later this year.

Related>>Label website

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Review by Jason Ritchie

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly