Melodic Rock, and Melodic Hard Rock are just new labels to describe the old and excellent AOR (Album Oriented Rock), a form of music that was popular at the end of the 70's and during the 80's. The shows of bands from this genre were done in great arenas and stadiums due its popularity. Names as JOURNEY, FOREIGNER and BON JOVI are some to show the popularity of AOR or AOR/Hard Rock on the 80s. But the energy and musical accessibility of it still awakens passion on many, as in the case of the Australian band STAR CHASER. Their album "Afterlife" is a fine example of how to play AOR in our current days.

Very good keyboards parts, guitar hooks, solid rhythmic session and very good vocals are the elements that they use to create a melodic and tender form of music. Obviously, easy and charming melodies that you can understand at first hearing must be presented (as it is in the case of these Australian guys). Obviously, you won't find a new AOR way on their work, but a lot of personality and fun that will last for days. The sound quality is really very good, clean in a way that you can assimilate their musical arrangements without complains, but with that essential dose of musical weight that a Rock 'n' Roll band of any genre you can think of must bear on its music. The tunes could be better in some moments, but they are on the right path.

All their songs are really good, but you'll surrender yourself when you hear "Castaway" (very good vocals and charming chorus), the excellent "Afterlife" (lovely keyboards interventions and fine bass and drums presence), the Pop scent that permeates "Leap of Faith", the mix between a dirty energy with catchy melodies of "Crash & Burn", the accessible and seductive "I Don't Want to Be Lonely" and "Hypnotised", and "Give Me Some Love".

There's no way back, so listen to "Afterlife", have a great time, and be sure that you'll like STAR CHASE's fan page on Facebook.