After the successful 2024's debut album “Reborn”, Terence Holler keeps digging into his 70s and 80s hard rock/AOR DNA and releases ten refreshing new songs that once again celebrate the absolute mystery of love. Backed by a sensational band of technical masters, the Italian American singer is finally free to fully express his storytelling vein. “Next In Line” is a precious collection of memories and feelings: at times cocky and sensual, at times tender and moody, always heartfelt, sincere and honest.

After reviewing Hollers debut album “Reborn” last year I ceased the opportunity to grab the sophomore album “Next In Line” for review. The opener “Miracle” is a modern style track which has lots of synths,with guitar solo & melodies,with Terence Hollers distinctive vocal style a modest opening track.”Stormy” is a much better track lots of very keyboard input,very much modern AOR with great backing vocals & guitar solo. A cover of Sia's “Chandelier” is next up with a hard rock twist which is OK but not the best version of this song I've heard.”The Ocean” is a track which sees somebody in a dark place with dark thoughts,but then pulled out of this situation to a better place,this been the ocean,a really good track with some good songwriting.”24seven” with its subtle pianos also has some melodic moments with some jazzy ones thrown in too.”Crystal Eyes” is the highlight of this album it has fast tempo,energy also more edgier & more direct,”Trust” the first single keeps this momentum going albeit more melodic than the previous track with a catchy chorus.”Away” with acoustic guitar touches starts off a mellow number with a more guitar lead powerful ending.”The Leader” the penultimate track again is dynamic with plenty of rhythm,but for me a lacklustre offering.”Perfect Place” is a piano lead ballad which ends this album.

I loved last years debut “Reborn” but despite several plays “Next In Line” left me disappointed and frustrated. There a few good tracks on the follow up,but the rest lack the quality and appeal of the debut. This latest offering didn't grab me like the first album. I'm sad to say this but an average release for me.