Kurt Vereecke's Frozen Rain project
has been on the market for several months now. After listening to
the tracks on his web site, I knew I had to secure a copy of it
somehow. Mr. Vereecke's history in the AOR and melodic rock genre
goes back nearly 25 years. I won't attempt to summarize his history
here; it's been covered by other review sites and you can learn
more on the Frozen Rain web site. Suffice to say that Vereecke is
steeped in 80's AOR/melodic rock being influenced by Journey,
Toto, Loverboy and a host of others.
So, the Frozen Rain project is the fruit of his history and influence
though the actual formation only began in 2002. His project was
picked up by the fledgling German label Avenue Of Allies
Music. The whole album oozes with great melodies, terrific
vocal arrangements, and talented guitar and keyboard work. A host
of talent contributed to the project, more than 20 players are found
in the credits. The music easily moves back and forth between melodic
rockers ('On The Run' and 'Waiting For
You'), smooth AOR ('Wire Of Love') and
stirring ballads ('My Heart Believes It's True').
There's no single lead vocalist on this work, many people fill the
role. The whole album is a pleasing rush of melodic rock. My favourite
songs were 'On The Run,' 'Your Love (I Want It All),' and 'Waiting
For You,' all which turn to the more melodic rock side.
Kurt Vereecke's Frozen Rain has been well received by many as it
should be. It's the culmination of a vision by a man who knows his
craft. Lovers of melodic rock and AOR should pick this album up
immediately. Very recommended.
In
short: Kurt Vereecke's Frozen Rain project is the result
of more than 25 years of inspiration and experience in melodic rock.
The work is dynamic and fulfilling and so this has been too long
a time to wait for this compelling project. Let's hope for more.
Review by Craig Hartranft
Rating: 4,5/5 |
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