Chris Rosander says about the new album: "The Monster Inside - Don't we all have one of those? I know I do, and I believe that the most of us have, metaphorically speaking a monster inside and that's what this work is all about. On this record you get to hear 11 stories/songs about different people, each has a more twisted/darker side of them self than the other. Basically this album is about different and absurd behaviors and the fact that all of us got a side of our self that we rather not let anybody else see. "The Monster Inside." The album has eleven songs.

The title track is the first. A heavy mid-tempo riff opens the song, with plenty of keys. Chris has  a great voice, and the chorus is chocked full of backing harmonies, and a memorable sound. It is catchy and quite fun. "Only Hearts Die Young" begins with a slower, and sultrier pace, with audible bass guitar and keys. He captures the spirit of the 80's perfectly in this song, with a sophisticated sense, akin to TOTO or CHICAGO. "Nothing Lasts Forever" has a lasting, memorable sound. Through three songs now, I am amazed at how well Chris can capture the sound of yesteryear with also making them modern. It's uncanny. Many AOR artists fail at this prospect.

"The Labyrinth" is like a train of melody coming at you with bright colors and lights on a cloudy, gloomy day. As it passes, children wave enthusiastically, and the landscape changes to blue skies and warmth. "This Isn't New" is a mid-tempo rocker with plenty of keyboards. Bass and guitars balance out the sound quite well. It had a bit of a darker edge, more akin to the title. But the melodies flow so strong in the chorus. "Northern Lights" swings with attitude. Again, much of the big punch comes in the chorus, and Chris has a knack for writing these big hooks. "When I'm Gone" is a tender song with a lot of feeling. Keys accentuate the sound well, and Chris reaches inside for one of the most poignant and emotive vocals of the album. The message can be heard loud and clear.

"Broken Soul" has a fierce bite to it, and some darkened tones. It's definitely something that you would not want to show to someone else. But a lot of us do feel like we have broken souls. The chorus is pleasing and somewhat hasty as well. "Turn Your Heart to Stone" begins with acoustical guitars and has a more matter-of-fact sound. When someone does this, it feels horrible, but you realize with experience that there is nothing you can do. It still hurts, however. "Little White Lies" closes the album. It has bluesy tinge to it, and is energetic, and Chris delivers yet another fantastic vocal performance with DEF LEPPARD harmonies in the chorus.

After close to 50 years listening to music, I have heard it all. I was a teenager in the 1980's when this kind of sound dominated the music scene. It was a magical time, but I'm sure a lot of music fans identify the music they grew up with as superior. Still, with all this in mind, this album was spot on. Not only did Chris capture the sounds of that popular time, he also managed to update it with a modern edge. The production is also stellar, so kudos to Pride and Joy, for allowing the songs to shine as they were written. These songs are catchy, whimsical, accessible, and fun, and something that a lot of people can enjoy, regardless of their personal tastes.