In the 80's, we can say that AOR/Melodic Rock was a successful genre, and the success was enough to influence some Pop artists back them. It wasn't hard to hear some Pop bands or musicians using clearly AOR elements, because it was the right way to commercial success (explaining: it was the best way to reach radio programs, and so to a vast audience that would buy the albums and singles, and would come to shows). And even as a writer, I can tell you that write a review for CLIF MAGNESS's album "Lucky Dog" wasn't so easy as you can think for many reasons.

The first: we are dealing with a multi-instrumentalist, producer and writer nominated and awarded, and worked with Avril Lavigne, Joe Bonamassa, Hanson, Lisa Marie Presley, Barbra Streisand, Cheap Trick, Steve Perry,  Jermaine Jackson, Ted Nugent, and a long list of other famous names that earns a lot of respect of us all. And on "Lucky Dog", he presents us all an amazing album of the purest AOR/Melodic Rock you can think, done with hooking melodies, fine choruses and excellent musical arrangements. Yes, it's really excellent, and to all those that are as experienced as me (to not call us all old men and women), you'll fell yourselves on the 80's once more.

As a refined producer, Clif took the responsibility to produce, mix and record all the musical instruments of "Lucky Dog". I don't need to say or write that all sounds perfect, with fine instrumental tunes, clear and with those essential sound distortions touches that a Rock album must bear. And don't ask about the musical arrangements, because when I wrote about his works with others musicians, it's an implicit feature.

When the album starts to play, we have the clear sensation that on the 80's, it would be a great success on radios and MTV. Songs as the nasty and catchy "Ain't No Way" (a savage and melodic Rock and Roll song, with great vocals and guitars), the seduction made music "Don't Look Now" (this one is a typical Pop Rock song that we could find on the 80s, with charming backing vocals and perfect keyboards), the tender approach of "Unbroken" (a power ballad that would be a commercial success on the past), "Like You" and its Glam Metal/Rock energy, the Country Rock/Southern essence of the ballad "Nobody But You", the binding energy of "Shout" (another AOR/Melodic Rock blow in our ears, and you'll be nailed in the place you are when hear this one that shows excellent bass guitar and drums works), and the sweet and tender atmosphere of "All Over My Mind" can be named as the album's finest moments. But all songs are amazing, and besides it will be a good experience for those fans from old times, I believe that all those with a good musical taste will love "Lucky Dog".

I consider myself lucky to hear and to review such good work.