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Harem Scarem: Mood Swings II

Melodic Hard Rock

4.0/5.0

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Frontiers Records
by Craig Hartranft
09.18.2013

You can't keep a good band down. After disbanding in 2008, rumors of a Harem Scarem reunion and possible tour circulated throughout the melodic rock world. Rumors became fact when the band was book as the headliner for this year's Firefest (where they will perform Mood Swings in toto), with additional European tour dates. But first they will perform at the Melodic Rock Fest, this month, in Chicago.

Harem Scarem: what's so funny?

In light of this occasion, Harem Scarem revisits their popular second release, Mood Swings, on its 20th anniversary with a re-recording of the album and adding three new songs for part II. Now before you get your tidy whities in a bunch, this new recording does nothing to soil the reputation of the original album. If anything it has crisp bright sound and a renewed strength, likely from the band being motivated by their reunion.

Songs from the original album that get a fresh, revved up feel include the first single No Justice, Saviors Never Cry, Sentimental Blvd, and Had Enough with it's brisk guitar intro. Though these are some great songs, my favorite still remains Stranger Than Love as it sounds like a Def Leppard song to be named later. As for the three new songs, World Gone To Pieces, Anarchy, and Brighter Day are simply Harem Scarem, creating punchy classic melodic rock, maybe even a little edgier. World Gone To Pieces will have the chorus spinning in your ears for several days.

If you never had the opportunity to get the original album, Mood Swings II is a worthy successor to it, and a fine addition to your Harem Scarem or melodic rock collection. 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.

Harem Scarem's Mood Swings II marks the return of the band after five years, and a re-recording of their classic melodic rock album with three new tunes.

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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 ]