Joel Hoekstra’s career is definitely on the rise as this very talented guitarist is working overtime with his tenure in Whitesnake and now with the release of this most excellent solo offering. And this comes from a guy who has played in the past with the like of such bands as Night Ranger and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. “Dying To Live” is definitely one of the best hard rock albums of 2015; an album that all the hard rock fans have been waiting for and they finally got! It’s like the old KISS motto…You Wanted The Best, You Got The Best!
Hoekstra has recruited an impressive, all-star line-up that includes Jeff Scott Soto, Russell Allen, Tony Franklin and Vinny Appice. The final result is nothing less than spectacular as the experienced guitarist has chosen to focus on the sheer structure of the compositions and not get carried away with pointless guitar flashy tricks. “Until I Left You”, “Anymore”, “Never Say Never” and the title song absolutely shine on the record…be warned though that Hoekstra’s guitar is phenomenal throughout the duration of the album. And if all these weren’t enough, some special guests make their appearance, too. I am talking about Derek Sherinian, Toby Hitchcock, Chloe Lowery etc. All in all, “Dying To Live” is one of the finest and purest hard rock albums. Period!
Highlight: Hoekstra has released in the past three more instrumental solo albums that have nothing to do with the hard rock genre.