There are some things that make the American continent very different from the European one. One of them is the naming of music genres. In the case of LIONHEART, we're talking the British version of the band, and the English name their music Hard Rock, whereas the Americans would go with the moniker of AOR (Adult Orientated Rock). Especially in the latter department is where the west side of the Atlantic has made quite the impression with bands like AXE, BALANCE, FOREIGNER, JOURNEY, BAD ENGLISH and so many more. But don't underestimate the British, because they have bands like FM, ASIA, JOHN WAITE, MAGNUM and DARE, just to name a few. And LIONHEART, of course. The band was formed in 1980 by ex-IRON MAIDEN guitarist Dennis Stratton, Rocky Newton (ex-MSG), Frank Noon (ex-DEF LEPPARD) and Jess Cox of TYGERS OF PAN TANG fame.

They played a lot of shows, even supported WHITESNAKE and DEF LEPPARD on their UK tours, and got signed, releasing their debut album "Hot Tonight" in 1984. The future seemed bright, but it soon all went pear-shaped, resulting in the band disbanding. In 2016 they reformed after having being asked to perform at Rockingham Festival in Nottingham. It was such a blast and a success that the band stayed together, which resulted in "Second Nature" being released in 2017, followed by "The Reality Of Miracles" in 2020.

Apparently, the time is right to rerelease "Second Nature" and after a few listening sessions I can understand why, as this is absolutely a very good record. LIONHEART are no less than any of the bands I mentioned before. Not only that, they are showing the world that even after all this time they have the ability to write songs that make your heart jump, create a happy feeling in your body and make you smile involuntarily!  This is melodic, coherent, pleasing and very well written and produced hard rock at its best. Every song hits home, and I actually immediately recognise "Don't Pay The Ferryman". Don't ask me what triggered that, as I haven't got a clue, but I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to "Second Nature". The bonus songs are a very pleasant addition, especially the great rendition of "Paperback Writer".

So, if you love your AOR or Hard Rock, however you wish to name it, you need to listen to LIONHEART and their enchanting album "Second Nature". If you don't, withholding yourself of a real treat. And you don't want to do that!