Light in the Dark
Revolution Saints
Melodic Rock trio REVOLUTION SAINTS formed when Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino wanted to work on a new project with these three musicians whom he had worked with previously, as well as one that could highlight Castronovo's voice. The list of bands the trio had been involved in is quite impressive, including the likes of BAD ENGLISH, JOURNEY, NIGHT RANGER, WHITESNAKE and DIO. "Light in the Dark" is their second release, and contains eleven new tracks. There has been a notable revival of groups in this genre lately, servicing both older fans who have nostalgia for this sound, as well as newer fans who haven't had a lot of this music in their generation. Let's get to some of the highlights here.
The title track kicks things off. A thick guitar riff and energetic sound swirl with that classic Melodic Rock sound, fronted by the soulful and rich voice of Castronovo. Harmonies in the chorus are lush and joyful. "Ride On" has that raucous sound that makes you just want to crank it up loud, and take a drive through the country with your windows down...air drumming, air guitar-ing or singing along...whichever you fancy. "I Wouldn't Change a Thing" is a six minute ballad, with piano and ambiance under Deen's emotional croons. The subdued presence of guitar, bass and drum are perfectly executed to allow the impact of the sound to really shine. That being said, the shredding and melodic guitar solo from Aldrich makes a great companion here. It's a truly touching song.
"Don't Surrender" is powered by a tough guitar riff and a harmonic chorus that has the energy to push you forward when things seemed stacked against you. This is surely one of the great features of the genre in particular...the power of positive music can make you accomplish nearly anything. "Can't Run Away from Love" is another thoughtful ballad that uses just the right combination of instrumentation and vocals to push the melody continually forward as it moves along. Aldrich can bury the strings as quickly as he can shoot goosebumps down your spine as he plays his lead solos. "Another Chance" is my underdog vote for my favorite track on the album. The riff is just such an easy listening affair, and the emotional peaks in the vocals are really strong.
"Falling Apart" closes the album. It's a mid-tempo song with plenty of passion and sentimental sounds. I think the keys in the background are important in creating that longing that you can hear in the song. It tugs at you in a way that warms you. Overall, "Light in the Dark" both builds a bridge to the past Melodic Rock that old guys like me grew up on, but also establishes a link to the present with tender and heartwarming songs that, well, just make you feel good. Reflective of theses seasoned musicians here is a flair for honest and inspired songwriting and melodies that stick around.
8 / 10
Excellent
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"Light in the Dark" Track-listing:
1. Light in the Dark
2. Freedom
3. Ride On
4. I Wouldn't Change a Thing
5. Don't Surrender
6. Take you Down
7. The Storm Inside
8. Can't Run Away from Love
9. Running on the Edge
10. Another Chance
11. Falling Apart
Revolution Saints Lineup:
Deen Castronovo - Lead Vocals, Drums
Jack Blades - Bass, Vocals
Doug Aldrich - Guitar
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