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High Spirits: Another Night

Melodic Hard Rock/Metal

4.5/5.0

High Roller Records
Website MySpace
by Craig Hartranft,  11.14.2011

At first listen, Chicago's High Spirits' second long-player Another Night seemed both anomalous and typical of melodic hard rock. With a strong and speedy pace and an super abundance of twin guitar solos the songs smack of early NWOBHM. Yet these are surrounded by equally harmonious and melodic chord vocal arrangements, nearly taking the edge off the tunes. This may be the pattern, but it's breathtaking and entertaining as the songs deliver with more hooks than should be legal in melodic hard rock or melodic metal. Honestly, while they trade upon characteristics of that old school, they sound little like any band from that generation, and that's quite appealing.

As mentioned, the pattern is the same throughout: relatively speedy songs blessed with fine vocals, smooth and strong rhythm section, and lots of guitar solos. The songs are glorious models of catchy, melodic tunes delivered by precise musicianship and clear production. The first four songs deliver that speedy, harmonious smoothness, which is curious for the last one, considering the title, in that pack, Demons at the Door. I'll Be Back is the first song that delivers a heavier metal edge, and then later, Where Did I Go Wrong. Yet, neither stray from that speedy motif. The exception to this rule is the best song here, Nights in Black. It offers more versatility in arrangement, driven mostly by a strong present bass line.

In the end, not to be cliche, High Spirits' Another Night must be listened to be believed and appreciated. This fine and uncompromising melodic hard rock, with a subtle metal edge. Quite recommended.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

Not to be cliche, High Spirits' Another Night must be listened to be believed and appreciated. This fine and uncompromising melodic hard rock, with a subtle metal edge. Quite recommended.

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The Powell Payne project, created in 2022 is the collaboration of Mark "Penfold Powell (ex-drummer of Psycho Kiss) and Adam Payne (former vocalist of Airrace). With guitarist Adam Davies and keyboard player ... [ Read More ]