CD REVIEW: SWEET & LYNCH – Only To Rise

Label: Frontiers Music SRL

Release Date: January 27, 2015

Rating: 9.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

What happens when you combine a powerhouse vocalist with a guitarist that launched killer solos and a million wannabes?  You get the latest super group to launch new material – Sweet & Lynch (Michael of Stryper fame and George of Dokken fame, respectively).  “The Wish” opens this disc with big vocals, killer riffs, and a tight rhythm section, giving this song the makings of a killer track.  The song sets the path for the rest of the disc.  “Dying Rose” follows with a chunky set of riffs and a heavy bottom end that gives this a modern edge without leaving the classic sound behind.  “Time Will Tell” brings a new flavor to the disc, with a different guitar sound and drumming, courtesy of Brian Tichy, that is upfront in the mix.  The guitars and vocals blend well during the chorus.  “Me Without You” is a ballad-like track that features a cool vocal-guitar duet through the intro and first verse. As the chorus kicks in, so does the intensity of the lyrics.  The rest of the band joins the track during the second verse, filling out the sound of the song.  “Divine” brings more chunky bass from James Lomenzo to the mix, while Lynch’s fingers dance across his fretboard and become the highlight of this song.  “Strength In Numbers” has a cool keyboard intro that suits the song and plays well against the guitars and vocals.  The songs tempo is a bit different from others on the disc, but gives the disc depth.

“Love Stays” is a mellower track that allows Sweet’s vocals to shine a bit more than other songs.  The guitar is strong and steady without being overbearing or forceful, even at the bridge and solo.  “Rescue Me” is a cool track that features some Hammond organ and is a tip of the hat to the old Journey sound, according to Sweet during a recent interview.  This track has a rock sound that combines classic rock with the 80’s metal these two are famous for.  “Recover” comes along and kicks the doors in, 1980’s style.  The furious drums and bass anchor the track while the guitar roam furiously across the song and upper register vocals dance over the choruses.  The energy on this track is hard to rival.  “September” is the first single from the disc and is the bands reflection back to the attacks of  9/11.  The lyrics are emotional and impactful, with a musical accompaniment that matches the intensity.  “Hero-Zero” is that song that doesn’t stand out upon first or second listen, but soon you find yourself singing the chorus when you least expect it.  The song gives us a different vocal sound, especially at the pre-chorus.  Title track “Only To Rise” closes the disc with a furious energy that helps bring the collection full circle.  The rhythm section of Lomenzo and Tichy excel here and keep Lynch from stealing the show.

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Category: CD Reviews