Perhaps Norwegian rock diva Issa, aka Isabell Oversveen, has a gambling side to her nature. Can't Stop is a cover album of mostly obscure AOR melodic rock songs. Your record library will need to be thick, your AOR knowledge deep, to recall these songs attributed to Mark Free, Aviator, 21 Guns, Atlantic, Regatta, Worrall, Blvd, Tower City and others. Why would you do that? I suppose going with the less familiar makes Can't Stop more a 'new' album of 'new' material from Issa.
That's not necessarily a bad thing. Considering her impressive vocal style and strength, and the people backing her up, Can't Stop, is a genuinely persuasive and entertaining album. The songs are traditional melodic rock, sometimes heavier as on the title track or Power Over Me. But mostly these are straight forward AOR anthems; notable songs include Just a Wish, Do You Ever Think of Me, and Dream On (not the Aerosmith song).
After these mentions, the key element is that every song fits Issa and confirms her standing with other notable melodic rock singers like Robin Beck. This essential is followed only by the excellent arrangements, provided by producer Alessandro Del Vecchio (who also provides keyboards) and fine musicianship of the supporting players.
Fans of both Issa and AOR melodic rock, in general, will want to add Can't Stop to their collections. 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.
TweetFans of both Issa and AOR melodic rock, in general, will want to add Can't Stop to their collections. Recommended.
Iconic and prolific composer and musical collaborator in the progressive rock universe, Neal Morse brings a new project to the genre with Neal Morse & The Resonance. Rather than an international alliance ... [ Read More ]