Can we keep an open mind? Let’s just accept that the band’s debut album, “Double Eclipse”, is a classic, and none of their subsequent works have surpassed it. Let’s take it as a given that the 1992 lineup has nothing to do with the current one. Back then, we were dealing with a supergroup, whereas now we’re essentially dealing with musicians backing the titanic Johnny Gioeli on vocals. Where does that leave us?
That “Shout” is a very good album! Yes, if you accept the above and listen to this album without reservations, you’ll have a great time! There are three major positives to “Shout.” First, Johnny’s voice – those of us who love him know we’d buy his albums even if he were reading out cooking recipes. The man simply still has it. Second, the production, which sounds fresh and satisfying. Unlike many new releases, it doesn’t sound artificial to my ears.
Third, and most importantly, the songs themselves. The album is well-crafted from start to finish. I wouldn’t say it includes a hit on the scale of “Hot Cherrie” because, quite simply, songs like that aren’t written every day. It does, however, feature some really great tracks, such as “Shout,” “Candy Love,” and the cover of “When You Came Into My Life,” which we first heard from the Scorpions in 1996 on “Pure Instinct,” is also lovely.
“Shout” has the dignity befitting an album bearing the band’s name. Time will tell if it can climb high in the preferences of their fans, but for me, it’s a very good release overall.
Michael Ntalakos
