The Next Level
Timson AOR
Timson AOR is a group comprising of two multi instrumentalists Mark Timson and Lukky S. “The Next Level” is the sophomore album and follow up album to the debut 2024 release “Forever's Not Enough” which was released to critical acclaim, which also established them as a standout act on the Melodic Rock Scene. Fans can expect a Timson AOR album which stays true to their roots with soaring melodies ,intricate instrumentation with lyrics that resonate with emotion and energy. With the lead single “The Wind Whispers (Your Name)” due to released on January 13th 2025 and the album “The Next Level” due for a worldwide release on February 28th 2025 (pre-orders starting 12th January 2025),with also a Japanese release on the Avalon label on February 26th 2025 with a bonus track.
The album starts with the lead single “The Wind Whispers (Your Name)” a lush synth/keys intro bursts into a smooth melodic/AOR melody, a smooth crystal clear vocals from Lukky S ,with a catchy chorus that transports you back to the 80's this would have a been a huge hit superb track. ”One Step Ahead” is a little edgier, a more gritty riff, I love the bass groove which is prominent in the mix, again so catchy, hooks galore ,the vocals are superb. ”Nevermore” is a fantastic mellow AOR track, the guitar runs are infectious, the solo is killer ”Starlight” is just a feel good ,upbeat track the lyrics, the melody & beat, the chorus just make you smile. ”Be True To Yourself” the intro a superb synth/guitar fusion leads to a melodic rock gem of a track ,it just ticks every box vocally & musically. ”From The Ashes” is the ballad of the album a piano based ballad with superb emotional , tender vocals from Lukky S who reminds me of Richard Marx ,a well written and executed ballad.
”Wake The Night” is another masterclass in how you write a AOR track musically & vocally its just perfection the right rhythm, melody, riffs, synths and vocals surely another future single? Or could it be “The Last Ride” which just flows and is just another slice great AOR. ”Where The Sun Meets The Sea” is that feel good summer AOR anthem, perfect for driving on a great summers day with the roof down or windows wound all the way down stereo on full. ”Midnight Radio” has some superb synths with another great anthemic catchy chorus and melody, soaring guitar riffs & solo, ”Farewell” is another piano based power ballad which finishes the album off very nicely a touching , meaningful track meant with sincerity.
“The Next Level” is a fantastic album from beginning to end. It has everything you could wish for in a AOR/melodic rock album superb its anthemic, soaring melodies galore, great vocals, production, catchy choruses. Made by two super talented guys, the first album was really good but “The Next Level” is what the title states this is the next level for Timson AOR, This album makes them a force to be reckoned with in the AOR/melodic rock scene and if this is your thing I highly recommend that you buy this. This is without question going to be one of my albums of 2025 already and as of writing this its still 2024!Pre orders start 12th January and Website live early 2025.Cd released worldwide on 28th February with a Japanese release date of 26th February.
10 / 10
Masterpiece
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"The Next Level" Track-listing:
1.The Wind Whispers (Your Name)
2.One Step Ahead
3.Nevermore
4.Starlight
5.Be True To Yourself
6.From The Ashes
7.Wake The Night
8.The Last Ride
9.When The Sun Meets The Sea
10.Midnight Radio
11.Farewell
Timson AOR Lineup:
Mark Timson – Guitar, Bass, Keyboards ,Synths & Drum Programming
Lukky S – Vocals, Lead Guitar, Bass & Keyboards
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