US rockers Talon have been through a few singers now, while the core of the band has remained the same. The guys have delivered 3 solid albums, but the debut with vocalist Michael O’Mara is still my favourite, so when news of Michael’s return to the band came through, Fourplay instantly become an anticipated album.
This time the guys have hooked up with Bombay Black’s Ty Sims to handle production duties. He’s someone who really knows his way around a mixing board.
And the combined results of Ty and Michael’s involvement on this record help make some quality songs even better – therefore it’s pretty easy to say that the band have delivered arguably their best album to date. Without question the best since the debut.
The only thing I can’t figure out is why Spun opens the album. It’s probably my favourite track on here actually, but sonically it is unlike any other track and more pop/rock than hard rock. It features guest Tim Pierce on lead guitar and an instantly catchy chorus. But maybe not the pick of the album for an opening track.
Aside from that, the rest of the album moves into the regular Talon beat of catchy hard rocking songs with a melodic heart, good rhythm and plenty of guitar licks.
Michael’s voice is made for these guys.
It’s easy to see why the tracks Sin City Sister and Holly Would are right up front – classic Talon right there.
Rockers Evil and It’s A Fine Line both impress and the mid-tempo melodic rocker Raise Em High is a nice sentimental touch.
On a lighter note, the acoustic I Don’t Wanna Cry is another departure for the band, but in a good way. The mature ballad flows beautifully and almost matches the production vibe of Spun.
The more familiar styled ballad Tonight is another highlight.
Anyone that’s followed John Parker and the guys knows what to expect and that’s exactly what you get with this album. Only better.
Good old-school American hard rock, with a couple of twists in there to keep fans on their toes.
