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Grand: Grand
Grand: Grand
AOR Melodic Rock
4.5/5.0
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Frontiers Music
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 18.10.2022 | Released: 21.10.2022
Arriving from the Stockholm area, Grand is a new project begun by experienced Swedish singer and songwriter Mattias Olofsson. After some 20 years in the business, Mr Olofsson wanted to create his own AOR project. He found some kindred spirits with from the genre in guitarist and producer Jakob Svensson (Wigelius) and drummer Anton Martinez Matz. Grand, a trio, was born and recently picked up by Frontiers Music for their self-titled debut.
Grand
The Grand sound merges classic AOR melodic rock with some very natural West Coast influences. For fans of both (related) genres, the Grand musical formula is a familiar one. All the songs within this debut are largely based upon the melodic lead vocals, harmonious vocal arrangements, and straight up rock rhythm and groove. The last part is prominent but never really transforms into heavier or edgy melodic hard rock. Grand wants to get your toe-tapping, not beat you over the head with pummeling rock. All these things, however, are wrapped in creative song writing spiced by catchy refrains, synth embellishment, and strong guitar solos.
Moving on to some song samples. For some stronger AOR, without losing the song melody and harmony, listen for Stone Cold, Ready When You Are, and the rather hefty Johnny On The Spot. Alternatively, songs becoming more AOR subtle and smooth arrive with Caroline, The Price We Pay, and Those Were The Days. A little faster but with a similar motif is Too Late. Closer to anthems or ballads are After We Say Goodbye and Anything For You.
All in all, for pure AOR melodic rock, Sweden's Grand and their debut album hits the mark, thanks to creative song writing from a trio of gifted and veteran musicians who understand the genre better than most. Easily recommended.
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The Take Away
All in all, for pure AOR melodic rock, Sweden's Grand and their debut album hits the mark, thanks to creative song writing from a trio of gifted and veteran musicians who understand the genre better than most. Easily recommended.
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