From Frontiers webpage, "SEVENTH CRYSTAL, who stormed on the melodic rock scene in 2021 with their stunning debut album "Delirium," have announced the release of their second full-length, "Wonderland." Picking up where their debut left off, but taking everything up a level (or two, really), "Wonderland" sees the bands taking the unique formula that worked so well for them and expanding upon it. This is melodic rock for the 21st century. The album has nine songs.

The title track is first. The opening hook is very catchy, and the song has a nice mix of keyboards and guitars working together. That's what I call a chorus as well...they drive the sound home with deep vocal harmonies at just the right time. "Higher Ground" begins with a weighted sound from the rhythms and the melodies are glorious once again. The keyboards augment the sound perfectly. Take a listen to the piano section following the guitar solo...stunning in its simplicity. "Hollow" is a smooth mid-tempo rocker with a great bass line, and another catchy sound. The hooks come at you from every angle. These songs will stick in your head, and put a smile on your face.

"My Own Way" is a more tender sound with peaks of emotion in the vocals. Take a listen to the chorus...it's emotive and beguiling. The bridge passage after the second chorus is very charming. "Imperfection" begins with piano notes and expressive vocals. It's not as hard as other songs, but the melodies are still very pretty. I suppose it is the "power ballad" on the album, for those who are familiar with the term. "Next Generation" opens with keys and an anthemic sound from the vocals. Some of the melodies are very nice, while other are lacking a bit. When they stay on the central line, they are gold, but when they divert, it takes away from that gorgeous sound. "Someday" is a slower and sultrier song, letting the sex appeal out. It's a longing song, highlighting the feelings of what could have been.

"Rodeo" closes the album; the shortest song. Maybe they saved the best for last, because this is a memorable song with a great vocal performance. Nothing beats the title track however, even though this rocker is fueled with energy. Overall, this was a very pleasant album to listen to. In the Melodic Rock/AOR sound, the songs are memorable, and catchy, and the singer has a great voice. All of the backing vocals help as well; this is a talented band with a penchant for writing hooks.