There's a problem in the use of labels to name musical genres. Today, we can see that modern labels are being used to describe old genres that already have defined names. One fine example: in my reviews, I try to make a connection, a link between the past and the present. In my earlier days as a Metalhead, those tender and melodic forms of Metal/Rock with great commercial appeal were named as AOR (Adult Orientated Rock), and names as JOURNEY and FOREIGNER were giants on this genre that, today, is being called Melodic Rock. Both names are to define the same genre, so don't get lost. As accessible and charming as those names from the late 70s and from the 80s, we have the British quartet NITRATE that comes with their first album, "Real World".
 
Musically, they are playing a form of AOR/Melodic Rock pretty melodic and charming that has some Pop Rock influences in some moments (especially due the tender vocals tunes that can remind me of names as Brian Adams and Tony Lewis). Of course, it isn't something strikingly new, but to hear such musical work in a time when the genre itself is being reborn is something refreshing for our ears and hearts. And by the way, they know to use their instrumental technique to creating very catchy musical arrangements. Rob Wylde (the band's guitarist) produced the album, having as work partners Pete Newdeck (the band's drummer) on the mixing and Harry Hess on the mastering. For what we can see, the band had a lot of control of what they were doing on the studio, and created something clear and with crystalline instrumental tunes, all to make their songs work as they must, and the final result is really excellent.
 
They use a musical insight to hold their ground on the roots of AOR/Melodic Rock essence, but with the clear vision that we aren't on the 70's or on the 80's. So on excellent songs as the charming and tender "Waiting On You", the hypnotic tempos and chorus of "Crazy Like You", the mix between melodic sense with aggressive guitars heard on "Insane", the amazing Pop Rock melodies that can be heard on "Crank Up the Weekend" (hear this song once, and you'll be singing with them on the second time), the excellent harmonies that hooks in our ears that fills "Real World", and the tender chorus of "I'll Be There" you'll really have a great time. But "Real World" can be heard fully.
 
All that's left to say: how I'd love to see AOR/Melodic Rock back as a success throughout the world, because I'm really bored to hear Alternative Rock melancholic guys complaining about real life. Enjoy this album at a very high sound volume!