I liked the debut very much and still play it regularly, but this is so much better! There's nothing in there that reminds me of Journey or Survivor. (In fact, very few bands out there now actually really remind me of Survivor, but that's a whole new argument!! :-) )

What I do hear is a great European take on classic 80s US AOR/Westcoast. Bags of Toto influence, some elements of Chicago (the uptempo tracks on 19 and 21, but minus the brass), etc...

Look, we all know that, like the debut, it's nothing new. Nobody is even trying to claim it is. And it will not appeal to everyone because of that. If you want 'new', don't buy this album. Also, if you tend to avoid the lighter end of the spectrum, this may well not appeal.

However, if you do want pure AOR in the 'old style' then go for it without hesitation. If you like Work of Art, you'll probably love this, as they share the same vocalist and there are a few similar elements in the music, although, much as I love WOA, I think Lionville have a more 'classic' and less 'cluttered' sound.

Personally, this CD is on repeat at the moment in my car and I can't get enough of it. It's squeezed Jimi Jamison's new CD (which IS a whole lot like Survivor!!) and Rick Springfield out of my playlist and that took some doing cos both are bloody amazing albums.

In my top 5 of the year without doubt!