Admittedly I'd never heard of this Norwegian band let alone listened to their first album 'Midnight In Paradise.' However, this impressive sophomore album has certainly enticed me to visit their debut release for the first time.

While it's an obvious melodic rock album steeped in eighties hard rock (a bit of early Bon Jovi, a bit of Journey, some Winger) there's a heavy progressive vibe too.

Mastered by the legendary Beau Hill (Warrant, Ratt and Winger et al) 'Two' has a consistency and high entertainment factor. 'PFRA' is a standout track: good use of keys, powerful vocal performance, strong guitars and a memorable melody. And there's plenty more of that.

The band is singer Bjorn Westum, guitarist Dice Jacobsen and bassist PB Riise. 10 tracks long and running less than 40 minutes it's not hard to listen to and doesn't require a lot of patients. While Last Autumn's Dream's latest release proves a tad disappointing 'Two' should fill in your hunger spot. Only the mid-paced ballad 'Sophomoronic' is slightly disappointing and it wasn't a good idea to close the album with it.

Nevertheless this band are a revelation. Visit www.winterparade.com.

***½

Review by Neil Daniels

www.neildaniels.com