DARE is a Hard Rock/AOR band from Oldham, England. Formed in 1988 by THIN LIZZY keyboardist Darren Wharton, the band has released eight studio albums, including one which was re-recorded, before "Out Of The Silence II," released on June 29th, 2018, a re-release and re-recording of their debut album to celebrate its 30-year anniversary, including 10 tracks.

The album opens with "Abandon," with melodic, atmospheric keys to set the tone, as vocalist Darren Wharton comes in softly yet powerfully, with perfect control. My only criticism is that, while the chorus is nice, the harmonies need just a little extra push, a greater volume or intensity, to make it a powerhouse. "Into the Fire" has the keys of a EUROPE song and the chorus of a SHY song, a winning combination for a darker, more emotional venture. "Nothing Is Stronger Than Love" is a pretty ballad with an emphasis on melody, harmony, and the way a guitar can provide both, and it would make an excellent song to break out at karaoke.

"Runaway" has beautiful acoustic guitar but also deep, heavy guitar when necessary, as well as verses with a driving rhythm and another monster chorus. "Under the Sun" builds slowly and creates images and sounds of a fantasy universe in its mystical keys and mighty guitar. "Raindance" is a slightly different style from what we've been hearing, slower, repeating similar sounding verses that gradually add harmonies. The sounds are nice, but the lack of diversity in the parts of the song take away from some of the excitement of listening.

"King of Spades" is similar to "Raindance" in some ways but stands superior because of its superb use of acoustic guitar and creative guitar work at the end. After these slower songs, "Heartbreaker" comes at an opportune time. It's unapologetically 80s, heavy, and angsty with its message, with some of the best music on the album to match. "Return the Heart," soft and not risky, isn't the most groundbreaking track of the 10, but closing track "Don't Let Go" opens with a beautiful and fitting piano and keyboard combination and includes Darren Wharton's best vocal performance of the album, as well as unique percussion, guitars screeching with emotion, and an expert bridge before the last chorus.

Especially demonstrated by the last track, DARE has made the right decision to re-record their debut album. "Out Of The Silence II" shows a group not short on talent, dedication, or love of what they create and will surely delight veteran fans and impress new ones.