As well as the debut album by this impressive quintet, Back In Business is now reissued via the MTM Classix series. Originally coming out in 1989 - through the Norwegian Polygram label - the sophomore effort by these Scandinavian lover boys can easily stand only one step below their legendary (for fans of the genre and 'obscurities' collectors) debut. And how can this differentiate?
The key-factor in Da Vinci - whether or not they finally managed to stand in parallel with renowned Scandinavian bands of the time such as Europe, TNT and Treat - splits in two: i) Robert Aass' vocal melodies are - like it or not - tremendous. Clear, sentimental and romantic. ii) the majestic playing of Gunnar Westlie - distinct, harmonic and passionate - carries on the tradition of ideal Northern Europe axemen like John Norum, Yngwie Malmsteen, Tore Ostby or Jonas Hannson.
The songwriting is appropriate for fans of Scandinavian Hard (melodic) Rock, and in the vein of bands like Heaven, Fate, Dream Police and Tintrum (the essentials of Europe and Treat of course also count), Back In Business stands proud enough even after 17 whole years! Turn Down The Lights, Young Hearts and Hold Back The Tears surely are fine examples.
The 'bad' thing lies on the fact that this sophomore album is a little bit not as powerful as the 1988 (do I recall well?) same titled album, meaning that many parts sound quite pop-ish. OK, it's not the 'thunder and lightning' thing that matters in such songs but - anyway - the rhythm section could be a little bit more 'heavy' while the production turned out to be somehow Eurovision-ish.
Not more is to be said. Blame It On The Radio is added in this re-release as a bonus 'goodie' and I cannot stop wondering how much influence on this viewed regeneration of Melodic Rock will reissues like this have. (Omit the inapt name and I) hope so...