This new album from Swedish melodic hard rockers HEAT introduces new singer Erik Gronwell is a blistering and cracking album - and a breath of fresh air. It's very much a late 80s throwback - it's classic melodic rock some some FM tendencies, with the bonus that it's completely glam / sleaze free.

Opener 'Breaking The Silence' kicks off in thunderous fashion, and features some soaring lead vocals and guitar, plenty of vocal harmonies, a decent melody and some good guitar solos to boot. There are hints of Thunder, FM and the more commercial side of Magnum, and closes with a hint of Hendrix.

The new single 'Living On The Run' grinds a solid rhythm with the keyboards take the lead, think a beefed up Europe without the parp. And another fine guitar solo - classic AOR indeed.

The vocals have a solid depth and good range, the production is crisp and crystal clear, the melodies catchy, the guitar and keeps mix melody, riffs and shred, and it's all polished to perfection.

I know this is 2012 but the music does not sound retro, dated or out of place - it is classic melodic rock that is uplifting and thoroughly enjoyable.

****

Review by Joe Geesin