Jeff Scott Soto certainly listens to his fans, as this new solo album is a bona fide melodic hard rock gem. There is hardly any funky vibe of past releases (which is a shame) but you do get an album chock full of catchy riffs and choruses plus the added bonus of Journey’s Neal Schon guesting.

Opener ‘Believe In Me’ is one of the best hard rock tunes of many a year and has a very catchy chorus. ‘Soul Divine’; and ‘Drowning’ keep the riff quota high and guitarist Howie Simon really lets fly with some very tasty solos throughout the album. The opening three songs must rank amongst the heaviest songs he has recorded. But as a respite there are some lovely ballads none more so than ‘If This Is The End’ which truly highlight what a wonderful voice Jeff Scott Soto has. There are so many good tunes on here you’re spoilt for choice and many would make fine singles including ‘On My Own’ and the uplifting ‘High Time’.

If you have never tried a JSS album then start here as you get as good as any introduction to his awesome talent.

This is a true ‘must have’ for all fans of hard rock as no-one does it as good as this and along with the upcoming Soul Sirkus album, hopefully Jeff Scott Soto will at last get the recognition and success he so richly deserves.

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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