101 South returns with a follow-up to 'Roll The Dice' with main men Roger Scott Craig (keys/vocals) and Gregory Lynn Hall (vocals) joined by an array of guests including guitarist Billy Liesegang and Chris Thompson on one song.

If you are after classy AOR look no further as this album is a prime example of how it should be done. To pick a few highlights 'What Are You Gonna Do Anyway' is at the heavier end of the scale, complete with heavy riffs and lots of simmering keys. 'End Of the Game' is another fine slice of hard edged AOR. 'When You're In Love' shows Chicago how a decent AOR song should be done without drifting into bland AOR. If that wasn't enough the guitar solos on this one are sublime. At the other end of the scale 'Blue Skies', featuring Chris Thompson, features lush arrangements and makes for a powerful ballad to close the album in style.

Good AOR albums are thin on the ground as many so easily drift into blandness but 101 South have the melodies and songs to keep you coming back for more. Special mention about the guitars too which are high in the mix and solos are top draw.

****½

Review by Jason Ritchie

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