STAN BUSH
In This Life
Frontiers Records 2007
www.larecords.com

What’s the 4-1-1?
You probably remember Stan Bush from his soundtrack contributions to numerous classic underground 80s movies such as Bloodsport, Transformers the Movie, and The Wraith (best Charlie Sheen movie ever!). He even wrote the theme to one of the Olympics games. Bush is back (at least in Europe), with his latest solo offering.

Genre
Melodic Rock / AOR

The Good
A brief but encompassing guitar and drum intro instantly draws you in on the opening track “I’ll Never Fall.” Bush’s vocals are melodic and powerful and make the statement that Stan is still here to rock. “I Got a Thing for You” is another heavier pop-rock track with lots of chugga-chugga riffage and pulsing keyboards. Bush pens another hook laden chorus here. Bush and company slow it down for the tear-jerking ballad “I Can’t Cry.” “The First Time” is another ballad. Only this time, Stan adds a little more texture instrument wise. He’s still just as heartfelt and enduring. “Long Long Way” is full of energy and catchy lyrics. It’s a genuine 80s arena rocker. “Take It All The Way” is a power ballad in the truest sense, as it starts off slow and builds to an over-the-top chorus. “Southern Rain” has a great guitar tone.

The Bad
Zip!

The Verdict
Every track is a winner! Pure melodic rock at it’s best. Bush may be stuck in the 80s a bit, but I loved every minute of it.

Did You Know?
Stan submitted a track to the 2007 live-action Transformers movie, but it was turned down (for a bunch of crappy modern artists apparently).

Rating: out of 5

Related Reviews:
Stan Bush & Barrage - S/T

--George Dionne