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Lawton, John & Diana Express: The Power of the Mind

Melodic Rock

4.0/5.0

Website
Intelligent Music
by Craig Hartranft,  12.19.2012

Diana Express is an obscure, though not in Europe, Bulgarian melodic rock outfit with a history that dates back to the early Seventies. John Lawton is also a legendary rock vocalist, best known, possibly, for his work with Lucifer's Friend and Uriah Heep. The two team together for The Power of the Mind, and it appears Lawton gets top billing.

John Lawton & Diana Express:: in performance.

The theme of the disc is positive thinking, using the power of your mind to create a better self and world. Norman Vincent Peale would dig this stuff. The music is classic melodic rock; Diana Express formed in the Seventies, and has never really left that decade. It's all rather mellow stuff at the start. Mind Power definitely defines the aforementioned theme in a very smooth, clear way.

Nothing really 'pops' or rocks until the appropriately titled Max Rock, where Lawton gets into his classic English rock vocal groove. More of this comes with Rock N Roll Is My Thing and In Rhythm With You, two very nice melodic, but not heavy, rockers. Once more we hear that Lawton has not lost any of his chops. The rest is simply inspirational, possibly spiritual, definitely motivational melodic rock. The Search, New Rhythm, and Love's Light Shining are quite representative of the overarching theme. You'll be satisfied with both the musicianship and production, both skillful and acutely clear. However, the first several songs wear out a particular piano chord.

In the end, with The Power of the Mind, John Lawton and Diana Express offer a pleasing platter of melodic rock. It's not necessarily technical or novel, but it does sound very good. Grab this if you dig classic Seventies to Eighties melodic rock. 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.

With The Power of the Mind John Lawton and Diana Express offer a pleasing platter of melodic rock. It's not necessarily technical or novel, but it does sound very good. Grab this if you dig classic Eighties melodic rock.

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eviewing my archives, I was pleased to find that I have had the privilege to review every Lionville since their self-titled debut in 2011. Formed by Stefano Lionetti, a songwriter, singer and guitarist based in ... [ Read More ]