2009 just fades away and it's true it offered us much in terms of plethora of releases and especially bands making their first steps in the scene. One of these are Norwegians STARGAZER, who release their first same-titled CD just prior to the year's switch. Norway is not as a non-stop machine as its neighbor Sweden is, as regards melodic Rock sounds (the path STARGAZER walks on), but do not erase from your memory cases such as TNT or STAGE DOLLS; both acts relate in a way to this CD here reviewed, since Morten Saket (ex-TNT bassist ) and Steinar Krokstad (ex-STAGE DOLLS drummer) participate in STARGAZER's lineup, while Tore Helgemo (vocals) and William Ernstsen (guitars) seem to be quite fresh names around.

First song off the album is "I Needed You", entering dynamically with a classic Hard Rock vibe and positive attitude, while "Push Me" comes next featuring a more American mood due to the mid-pace pattern and the melodic guitar parts. "Brother Against Brother" is a trouble-free song with some modern cut, nice harmonies and a charming guitar lead by Ernsteen who seems to take hold of his duties breathing fresh ideas. The next song - boasting a straight AOR tempo - needed a lot of study since "This Is The Night" is a weird (yet successful) offering, with the AOR palette mixed with the playing of H.I.M. with vocalist Helgemo singing in a Chris Isaak kind of style (he initially fears he'll not make it in his mid-frequencies) and a total result I'd judge as awesome, with efficient guitar licks once more.

"Whirlwinds" is an instrumental piece preceding "You Are The One", a rather mediocre song. The same does not apply, though, for "Keep The Good Times" which raises the hammer high in its bold refrain and whole songwriting (one of the album's most exciting moments). "Working To The End" sounds kinda ordinary for a song, no prob, while "The Cage" sees an average relaxing ballad. Summing it up, "Dancing On Your Grave" and "Window To The World" are quite amusing pieces, with the latter showing off a non-usual yet entertaining chorus.

To cut a long story short, "Stargazer" did not showcase any bad moments. It's a notable CD with good times and some magnificent production and great guitars grabbing the trophy. Grumbling a bit, let's say the vocals could do better, especially in the 'accent' sector and the low pitch parts since Tore Helgemo seems to be addicted to ultra clear singing and needs to spend time on more calm/warm sessions. Otherwise, I found myself pleased with the album's audition and it's a belief STARGAZER can do even better in the future; the specific sub-genre needs this, too.
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