SHADOWMAN - review added 12th April 2011
Album Review: Watching Over You (2011)
For fans of: AOR
AOR (almost)-supergroup Shadowman released their debut album "Land of the Living" seven years ago. The band, formed from members of FM, Heartland and Thunder released their second "Different Angles" in 2006. "Ghost in the Mirror" followed in 2008, leading us onto their 4th album "Watching Over You" out in 2011.
The sound is soft soulful AOR with a rock edge. Think along the lines of the obvious influences - FM and Heartland - plus Michael Bolton, Huey Lewis and more. The musicianship is superbly uncomplicated, and Steve's vocals are as on the money as ever. You always know what you are going to get from an Overland performance, and this is no different.
I haven't heard a lot of the older material by the band, but coming to this album 'fresh' it comes across very well. There's little that's groundbreaking or challenging on "Watching Over You", but for a near perfect slice of easy-rock, few albums sound better than this. Okay, not all the songs are as catchy as I would have liked, but most of them'll get stuck in your mind with aplomb. Personal favourite? I'd have to say the slightly progressive 'Heaven Waits', though several others get close.
In Summation:
This is a feel good album full of bright hook-laden tracks. It's a little safe to truly grab the heart, but that's what a lot of people out there like...and those people will love this.
Entertainment/Enjoyment:
Musicianship:
Vocals:
Song Writing:
Production:
Overall (Not An Average Of The Above):
Track List:
01. Across The Universe
02. Renegades
03. Cry
04. Watching Over You
05. Are You Ready
06. Suzanne
07. Waiting For A Miracle
08. Stop Breaking This Heart Of Mine
09. Heaven Waits
10. Whatever It Takes
11. Justify
12. Party Is Over
Band/Performers:
Steve Overland (FM) – Lead Vocals
Steve Morris (Heartland) – Guitars & Keyboards
Chris Childs (Thunder) – Bass
Harry James (Thunder) – Drums
Other Info:
Produced by Steve Morris
Mixed by Tommy Hansen
Label: Escape Music
Artist's website(s): Shadowman
