| Swirl 360 California Blur | Atenzia Records |
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California Blur is some 7 years in the making, after the band was left high and dry after the release of their debut album on Mercury Records.
The band is back better than ever thanks to a new deal with Atenzia Records in Sweden. Swirl 360 is another fine example of modern melodic pop rock that some will immediately avoid or dismiss, but those whose taste extends to such formats will find this a very enjoyable release. California Blur is packed with fine contemporary power pop in the vein of bands such as Jellyfish, Foo Fighters, The Cars and Cheap Trick. To bring comparisons closer to home for the AOR folk, I think the band's sound and especially the vocals of Denny Scott are comparable to the very fine Brett Walker – albeit, dressed up in a far more contemporary feel. The laid back and at times blissful pop could also compare to the style and sound of Danny Wilde and The Rembrandts – it's that type of easy going melodic pop rock that drives this band. Oblivion and California Blur are the two best tracks of the album – both catchy as hell in a moody pop style that sees multiple hooks featured and some smooth vocals. It could be said that it's all downhill after the first two tracks, being they are the standout tracks of the album. But I'm happy to say there still remains some fine music to enjoy throughout the album – so long as your taste takes in this genre. Chemical (My True Love) has another great chorus hook and a style that walks the tightrope between angst ridden pop and modern melodic rock. Nothing Left is another great pop song, mellow during the verse, but more lively come chorus time. One & Only and Postcard provide the album with a late burst of inspiration.
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25/04/06: Zok - micke_016@hotmail.com
07/10/05: Mike Wolfer - MusicmanIB@netscape.net
19/05/05: Freddy De Keyzer - freddydekeyzer@hotmail.com
Rating: 89
What a surprise, this is not a old school melodicrock sound. But its fresh and more comersial. Its not a bad song on this. Swirl shows that you can do a great record with a fresh sound.
Rating: 89
Great modern sounding melodic power pop! Catchy tunes that stick in your head! Great for Marvelous 3, Cheap Trick fans etc. Get this if you like power pop. I love it!!
Rating: 5
Just listened in my local record store to see if there was any improvement on the Atenzia front !
Not really, I'm afraid !
Still the same alternative, modern, childish garbage.
I don't like it, something for kids, I suppose ! ?
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