Almost Perfect
I think that Steve Newman is definitely one of the good guys of Melodic Rock. He was the star of the cack-fest that was ZRock last year, and I'm always interested to see what the talented bloke has up his sleeve at every new opportunity. Basically the guys a machine, and I think he's a Man U fan as I am certain he only comes out with an album when the twats win the premier league. Which in terms of music, is goddamn prolific!!!
For starters the album cover is a bit of a belter. It takes me back to the 80's when many a purchase was completed solely on the quality of the cover. Some turned out to be shite, but Siren is anything but. After living with this for just over a week now, they album get better with every passing spin, and I cannot stop playing or singing the bugger!
Since 1998, melodic rock artist Newman have been producing consistently high quality albums filled with hook laden songs and thought provoking lyrics. Steve Newman would then break away from his former label to form Chrome Dome, an independent set up for the purpose of continuing to release the Newman product. In 2010 The Art Of Balance was released to huge acclaim from critics and fans. The band followed this up with a string of successful live dates including Cambridge Rocks, Firefest and a UK Tour supporting John Waite, achieved in the face of huge emotional strain after Steve lost both parents.
In 2011, Steve had the chance to write and record with one of his close friends Mark Thompson-Smith, the result being Big Life and was one of the finest albums of the year.
Now, after a break of 2 years, following a studio upgrade and relocation, Newman return with their 10th studio album and the collaboration with AOR Heaven continues.
Siren is definitely the AOR equivalent of (insert you pleasurable experience here ''_______'') Mine's having an AOR Rock Goddess rubbing me down with a wet flannel! (You know who you are) It just ticks all the boxes and is one anthem after another.
Take It All is an absolute belter. Heavier than his norm, with a classic riff, and ultra singable chorus. Had Enough is definitely a future classic and stands alongside any AOR gem from the last 30-odd years. Its has hints of Foreigner, Mr.Big, with some real quality vocals from Steve Newman. Arcadia is a little mellower, but by no way inferior than the previous, but again is dragged above the competition with a finely constructed tune and another top mutts nutts chorus!
Another Bitch Of A Night is so Whitesnake 87 era, I expect a certain Mr Coverdale to be chippin' in with the vocals to Still Of The Night. Robert Säll of WOA & WET contributes guitar to Feel Her Again and makes it more of a WET sounding than a Newman song.
Newman's lyrics are more thought provoking than many a rival, and becomes more than just AOR by numbers. When It Comes To Love is a collaboration with Vega's Nick Workman, who also contributes backing vocals, and is an 80s old school rock ballad
Steve Newman's vocals are some of the finest I've heard in some time, both from himself, and from anyone else! It must be something to do with the name 'Steve!' He has nailed the production of Siren, focusing purely on quality. Despite all the friends and collaborators involved, this is still clearly the Newman show. Its not standard fare Melodic Rock, instead it's heavier with more of a purpose and edge, and thoroughly deserves to pick up some new fans along the way.
I prefer to label this as 'Classic Rock' rather than AOR/Melodic Rock, as I'm positive that Siren is a future Classic Rock album. Not only is it one of Steve's finest it just stands head and shoulders above many an effort the past couple of years
Band Line Up On this album:
Steve Newman- Vocals, Guitar, and Keyboards
Rob McEwen- Drums & Percussion
Shaun Bessant- Lead Guitar on "When It Comes To Love"
Robert Säll- Lead Guitar on "Feel Her Again"
Live band:
Steve Newman - Vocals, Guitar
Shaun Bessant - Guitar, Vocals
Paul Boyle - Keyboards, Vocals
Pete Newdeck - Drums, Vocals