FIRST SIGNAL — First Signal (review)

FIRST SIGNAL — First Signal album cover Album · 2010 · Hard Rock Buy this album from MMA partners
5/5 ·
Stephen
When Harem Scarem decided to fold the cards couple years ago, I'm not expecting them to return at least 5-6 years, but the news of Frontiers reviving the magical voice of Harry Hess in a project similar to Place Vendome or Sunstorm is like a winter breeze in a hot summer sun. Hess is purely a full-time singer here as most of the songs contributors are not from any Harem Scarem camp, but some big names such as Richard Marx, James Christian, Erik Martensson, and Robert Sall. Musically, First Signal is a breed of early Harem Scarem blended with their later era and the typical Dennis Ward's melodic rock style.

"This City", the first single of the album, is a monstrous melodic bliss with a catchy chorus and nice solo. This track alone successfully brought back the nostalgic value of Hess' golden era in the dawn of 90s. "When You Believe" is up next, another great track and I'm sensing a big Journey influence inside. "Part of Me" continues the classic Harem Scarem style. "Crazy" is a sad and anguish ballad and somehow reminds me of Bon Jovi's "Santa Fe". The title track, which is quite similar to "This City", is a mix of classic and contemporary Harem Scarem style, another fave of mine. "Into The Night" is a soothing piece of melodic rock and "Yesterday's Rain" has a thick W.E.T scent and both are simply stunning. Honestly, the rest of the album is pretty good as well, no weak moment at all, and Hess provides an immaculate vocal delivery throughout the album.

First Signal is definitely made for fans of early Harem Scarem but maintained the fresh edge to keep this album from sounding outdated. Hess' voice is as strong as ever and this album just keeps getting better and better after repetitive spins. I can't help but to give this a solid five stars and consider this a big treat while waiting for them to reunite.
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