After ten years, Paul Shortino is back with a solo release to demonstrate why he has been an influence in the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene for decades. While most known for his work in the 80's with ROUGH CUTT and QUIET RIOT, Shortino has been an active vocalist in many bands throughout his career. He is from the generation of bluesy rock singers that were idolized for their ability to sing with power, emotion, and energy. Currently, Shortino is pulling double duty as the active singer of the band KING COBRA and also as a key performer in the Las Vegas show "Raiding the Rock Vault." And yet, his passion for music drove him to create a new project, the solo album "Make A Wish." Teaming up with guitarist/producer Nozomu Wakai (DESTINIA, METAL SOULS), Shortino delivers a blast-from-the-past rockin' album with a fun, energetic, and modern feel.

As a lifelong rocker, Shortino has gained countless musician friends, and from the release notes for the album, it appears as though most of them have performed on "Make A Wish" as guests. Most noticeable of which is ex-PANTERA drummer, Vinnie Paul, whose posthumous work can be found on opening track and single "Send in the Clowns." As a reviewer, I couldn't really imagine a cover of the Broadway classic hit song working not only as a hard rock track, but as an opening single. But Shortino makes it work in the best way. He starts the track off slowly, letting his bluesy voice sorrowfully open the album. Not long after, he lets out a piercing wail, and the band kicks in with energy. Shortino and the band drive forward in full hard rock style, with the guitars squealing, bass thumping, and drums kicking all over the place.

Fans of classic hard rock and 80's era heavy metal will definitely enjoy this album. There are moments that are dripping with style in ways similar to acts like VAN HALEN and BON JOVI. Paul Shortino's voice can easily stand on its own. He uses the falsetto that was so common from the 80's rock era, but with age, he is able to bring a croon to a register that gives his voice extra character. The blues elements ring throughout but are mixed well with a clean rock delivery. Honestly, his voice sounds like an intriguing mixture between David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar.

In terms of songs, there really isn't a bad track on the album. They all have a hard rock feel to them; but are mixed up in terms of tempo or style. "Shout and Pride" is an energetic, upbeat, blistering track that will have you pumping your fist and shouting along with Shortino. "Make A Wish," the title track, is an anthemic ballad that brings the emotion to a peak as Wakai strums along on the acoustic guitar. "Rise Up And Be Strong" is another banger with an incredibly catchy chorus. "Eyes Of The Wizard" has Shortino using a bit of vocal distortion to create an effect reminiscent of DIO and other early metal bands that would sing about fantasy themes. "Beat Of My Heart" slows things down and lets Doug Aldrich on guitar add a heavy dose of twang for this track that ends up hitting more like a country ballad. "Rising Sun" closes things out with another strong dose of rock.

Overall, "Make A Wish" by Paul Shortino is a great listen for fans needing a hit of old school hard rock energy. All the performances by him and his host of guest musicians are executed perfectly, which is expected from this group of musical veterans. The focus of each track is energy and emotion, with strong hooks in each chorus that you can bob your head to over and again.

Favorite Songs: "Send In The Clowns", "Shout And Pride", "Eyes Of The Wizard."