|
SHY ‘Sunset And Vine’ (MTM Music 2005)
Shy are back with a follow-up to 2002’s excellent ‘Unfinished Business’
and now also on a new record label after leaving Z Records. Shy, like FM,
never really made the next leap-up in sales and popularity back in the late
80’s/early 90’s despite very strong material. But hopefully this release
will at least see them gain wider exposure and more fans.
The line-up is still the same as the last album with vocalist Tony Mills,
guitarist Steve Harris and bassist Roy Davies remaining from the 80’s
line-up.
Musically there is more emphasis on melodic rockers this time around, like opener ‘High Time’ with its harmony vocals and crunching guitar
riffs. Keyboards are used more again and add greatly to songs such as the
ballad ‘Where Is The Love’, which is a latter day Shy classic. Some tunes
wouldn’t look out of place on a Journey album like ‘High Time’ or ‘First
Love’, especially in the harmonies and choruses. The production is spot on
with a very clean and crisp sound and the guitars are high in the mix, which
is good to see.
Heartily recommended for all lovers of quality melodic rock and proof
that UK bands can match US bands at melodic rock. Hopefully there will be
some tour dates as well as Shy, like many bands come across much heavier and
powerful in the live arena.
****
Review by Jason Ritchie
Label website
Album review
Interview
|
