Merseyside based Melodic Hard Rockers FUGITIVE celebrate a quarter of a century of playing together with their new album, "Black Planet". Although having struggled at times to consistently find shows over the years, the band have nonetheless persevered and found a passionate audience in the British biker community, frequently playing at rallies and other events. In order to give something back to the community that supports the band, and allows them to do what they love, all money raised from the lead single from "Black Planet" will be getting donated to the NABD (National Association for Bikers with a Disability), in addition to 25% of the album sales. FUGITIVE, we salute you!

Moving onto the album itself, FUGITIVE's sound is defined by melodic guitar lines, smooth yet rhythmic grooves, and a slight dash of keyboards that really puts the cherry on the cake, rounding the sound out nicely. The similarities to radio friendly Rock of the latter part of the 70's and the 80's, such as JOURNEY and WHITESNAKE, are obvious, but even so, the songs always feel fresh and enjoyable! Some tracks make use of a blues based vibe, there are a few strong ballads, and plenty of powerful, distinctive choruses - basically, FUGITIVE do a great job of avoiding the dullness and monotony that many bands of this style fall in to.

Specific highlights include "Behind Closed Eyes", with orchestral parts sitting well behind the clear, strong and soulful vocal performance, "A Lot To Lose", which is another track with a strong chorus begging to be played live, and "Miracle", with its dominant guitar riff and subtle underlying keyboard accompaniment combining to make what feels like an authentic piece of late 70's rock!

With "Black Planet", FUGITIVE have put out a collection of great melodic rock tracks that feel as though they've come straight from the era when the style was all the rage. While not a hugely original sound, it really doesn't matter when you're having as much of a good time as you do listening to this band! Add that to their commitment to the biking community and associated charities, and you have a band and album worthy of anyone's time!