This label just cannot help churning out quality tunes of late. German band Fair Warning (not to be confused with the classic progressive band Fates Warning, even with a similar looking band logo!) performs their melodic rock to a loyal set of fans. Since an earlier hiatus, 2009 saw the band locked in an old knights castle to record this their seventh studio album since their first release band in 1992.
Vocalist Tommy Heart has a wonderful voice, perfectly suited in this genre with a soulful delivery of thoughtful and emotional lyrics that for me makes the album. The opening couple of tracks ‘Fighting for Your Love’ and ‘Here Comes the Heartache’ does exactly what is says on the tin, all loved up and now alone etc… you get the idea. Helge Engelke does play some blinding leads on these said two tracks, and there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel for a cracking album. Ha, here come the ballads! Still, with such a good voice the arrangements are mature but don’t sound over the top, they are well placed and perfectly executed. ‘Hey Girl’ displays this notion with epic notoriety, the song builds from the acoustic leanings, the powerful guitar introduction, a dreamy solo, only interrupted for a moment with a random bass fill and here you have the full melodic rock package, but for the loss of control towards the end of the track.
The whole album continues along in this same vein, you cannot really analyse it further without repeating yourself. At some points I did find my concentration wandering whilst listening, there are too many slower numbers for my liking, thankfully ‘Walking On Smiles’ makes you come alive again. Whilst you cannot detract from the quality, it’s just a case of personal preference. If you’re a fan of this genre, you will enjoy this album, for the curious, I would check out their website and listen to a few tracks to make your mind up. Other than a faultless production with excellent musicianship and a superb voice, this album tugs at your heartstrings and affirms the comfort of melody, whether you’re in the mood for it or not!
http://www.fair-warning.de/
http://www.metalheaven.net
