In 1983, QUIET RIOT’s “Metal Health” reached number 1 on Billboard 200 chart (precisely, on November), starting the age when Metal dominated the parades and charts, and became a commercial success. The model for Glam Metal had many changes, searching for a different outfit to reach those potential fans of those days. Producer, bands and labels did many experiences, and generate models that are successful today, with the new rise of the genre on Europe. And this is what one can find on the debut album of Michael Catton - a known Danish/English singer -, “Point of No Return”.

Here is presented the old formula of Hard Rock/Glam Metal of the 80s, but with a new and refreshed outfit. It brings the same experience of the 80s, with charming melodies, catching choruses, and sometimes one can check a transition into Metal (as heard on the savage and aggressive energy spew forth by “Armageddon Again”). The talent shown on the songs can’t be denied, as things seem to be coming from the heart, so be prepared by a new experience using an old formula (but again: with a new and living format).

The production was done by Søren Andersen (who plays guitars on the album, and is widely known for his works as producer with PRETTY MAIDS, ARTILLERY, MYRKUR, TYGERS OF PAN TANG and others; and for his six strings playing with Mike Tramp, THE DEAD DAISIES, Glenn Hughes and others), and the album was recorded on Medley Studios (Denmark). All the efforts were done to greet the album with a massive and defined sound quality, but bearing an organic appeal as well. And on the playing of the musical instruments are guys with experience on bands as PRETTY MAIDS, BOYS FROM HEAVEN, SUPERFUZZ and others.

After his former band, TAINTED LADY, ended, Michael came with the idea of becoming a solo artist, and “Point of No Return” states clear that he has a great potential to go into this way and have success, as shown on songs as “Faith” (a powerful song for opening an album, filled with energy and an amazing set of organic melodies, with the vocals showing its ample range of tunes), “Livin’ Lovin’” (some influences of the 70s Hard Rock are heard on this one due its instrumental parts, with raging guitar riffs laid on a Boogie rhythm), “Armageddon Again” (a Hard Rock/Metal song boosted by heavy guitar riffs and melodies in a similar way to KISS 80s’ age), “Hearts in Danger” (another heavy song with thunderous weight, with an oppressive work on bass guitar and drums), “Ready for the Takin’” (the level of energy on this one explodes the VU meters, but what lovely and accessible melodies), “Gas on the Fire” (this one is truly freaky in a similar trait to AEROSMITH on “Pump” days), and “Brother”. But besides these ones are named, the whole set of songs is amazing.

All that’s left to say is that “Point of No Return” deserves to be followed by a row of more excellent albums. And be welcome with your solo career, Michael!