It's hard to say precisely when AOR (what can be translated as 'Adult Orientated Rock' and is known as Arena Rock as well, due the commercial appeal of the genre that led thousands of people to go to watch shows on great arenas) was born, but this melodic and accessible form of Hard Rock (it's not a sin to see the genre in such way, or as a mix between it and Soft Rock) was born in the 70s, when bands as ands such as JOURNEY, TOTO, REO SPEEDWAGON, BOSTON ruled supreme. But still today, the genre still has it appeal, especially on Europe. So it's the reason for an act as HOUSTON, hailing from Sweden, exists, and they're here with a tribute album called "Re-Launch III". It's obvious that the album brings a form of AOR, Melodic Rock or any other name the reader wants to choose, with a clear accessible appeal to reach a broader public.

And the series "Re-Launch" series is focused on versions of the band to obscure and older songs of the genre (and let's be clear: if no one said that, no none would be aware that these songs are covers), and really: it's really great to have such set of songs flowing from the speakers, and even with the golden age of the genre being in the past, it doesn't mean that no one can't hear and like it. It's the opposite: you can hear to the album, and for sure you'll love it. The production worked in a way that makes the sonority of "Re-Launch III" be crystal clear and defined (what means that the mixing and mastering were done wisely to make the natural traits of AOR clear), but always with an outfit that seems to evade endless digital editions on the studio.

There are 11 songs on "Re-Launch III", and as said above, no one would pay attention if these songs are covers. And everyone will be astonished when songs as "Live Forever" (amazing keyboards ambiences fills the tender sets of melodies, filling the song with life), "Slipping Away" (another excellent set of melodies, with focus on the contrasts between guitars and keyboards arrangements), "Heart of Stone" (a heavier song, even with such sweet melodies that allows a very good work on the vocals), "She Don't (Come Around Anymore)" and "Do You Believe" (this 80s AOR appeal on both songs is always excellent to hear), "Modern Day Delilah" (lovely melodic contrasts are presented, and with a good and solid work on bass guitar and drums, and what great chorus is heard), and "Outrageous" are played. And there are two bonus songs on the physical copies: 80s remixes for "Live Forever" and "Do You Believe".

Even not being an authoritative work, "Re-Launch III" deserves applause, and HOUSTON really must consider a future fourth volume for the series.