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L.R.S.: Down to the Core
L.R.S. - Down to the Core CD Album Review

L.R.S.: Down to the Core

AOR/Melodic Rock
4.5/5.0

Website (Label)
Frontiers Records
by Craig Hartranft,  13.03.2014

Let's try to make this introduction brief. L.R.S. is vocalist Tommy La Verdi (21 Guns), guitarist Josh Ramos (The Storm, Hardline) and drummer Michael Shotton (Von Groove, Hardline). The band began as a project to resurrect the vocalist's career, led by uber composer, musician and producer Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline, et al). He brought in the other two musicians to support the project, and voila a melodic rock power trio was born.

L.R.S. - Down to the Core Band Photo

L.R.S.: l-r, S.L.R.

What you get is some solid modern AOR melodic rock from some very talented musicians. Considering the origins of the band, one would think that the emphasis is upon La Verdi. Indeed he has a strong voice made for this style of music, at times smooth and clean, other times passionate and razor sharp. Yet give credit also to Ramos, who brings some equally sharp leads across the entire album. And Shotton adds that steady presence of a seasoned drummer. Together they seem completely natural, musicians who were destined to play together, and that's a strong statement.

Within their debut album Down to the Core, L.R.S. offer a musical variety from rockers to anthems. Some crisp rockers come with Our Love to Stay, Livin 4 a Dream, Shadow of a Man, and Down to the Core, all with a catchy groove, La Verdi's smooth delivery, and Ramos knocking off some enviable solos. Being pretty much classic AOR, there has to be some anthems, and L.R.S. doesn't disappoint. Especially soaring are Not One Way To Give, the inspirational Never Surrender, and Universal Cry, which seduces you with it's subtlety, than hooks you with a great refrain and one terrific guitar solo. For something closer to a pure ballad there's Almost Over You, finding La Verdi at his emotional best. While I could favor some songs over others, I can say there's not a bad song here, and you get a lot: 12 songs at nearly 60 minutes. It's money well spent, and a fine listening experience. Quite recommended.


L.R.S. - Livin 4 a Dream (Official)

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In Short

L.R.S.'s Down to the Core is simply delectable AOR melodic rock ear candy, from three musicians who were destined to play together.

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