 JOE
LYNN TUNRER
The Usual Suspects
Frontiers Records 2005
www.joelynnturner.com
What’s the 4-1-1?
Hi, I’m Joe Lynn Turner. You might remember me from such rock projects
as Rainbow, Deep Purple, Yngwie Malmsteen’s Rising Force, Brazen Abbott,
Mother’s Army, and Hughes Turner Project. I’m here today
to present to you my tenth solo album.
Genre
Hard rock / melodic / AOR / classic rock / blues rock
The Good
The last time I heard Joe Lynn Turner was on Brazen Abbott’s last release
(read CD review), although he sounded okay, I thought that it wasn’t the
JLT I remembered. I was surprised when I gave The Usual Suspects a spin; this
is the JLT I know and love! “Power of Love” is a mix of chugga-chugga
riffing and sustained power chords. Joe’s vocals are still melodic with
just enough ruggedness to remain edgy. The persistent chorus really draws you
in.
A wicked riff charges up “Devil’s Door”. This track focuses
on JLT’s powerful vocal prowess, pushing the instrumentation to the background.
The periodic keyboard tones help underscore the song. The driving guitar and
keyboard rhythms on “Jack Knife” recall the days of Rainbow. Al Pitrelli
lays down an off-the-wall solo. “Really Loved” is a slow tempo, soulful
track with keyboard heavy verses. Arena rock riffage blended with clean arpeggios
command “Rest of My Life”. The lyrics that make up the chorus are
instantly memorable as Turner lays down some great layered vocals.
“Ball
and Chain” has a funky muted riff and piercing lick to it. The guitar combo
helps drive home the message of not being able to escape a troubled lover. Pitrelli
delivers again during his solo. “Live and Love Again” is a bluesy
power ballad about moving on (love that power bridge). JLT ends on a high note
with “Unfinished Business”. It has fast paced, hard driving rhythms
that mingle well with Joe’s forceful lyrics. Shades of 70s Deep Purple
organ tones can be heard here.
The Bad
Nothing
The Verdict
Another classic Joe Lynn Turner album! You don’t have to be a longtime
fan to enjoy JLT’s brand of feel-good rock music.
Did You Know?
Joe Lynn Turner has done backing vocals for Michael Bolton, Taylor Dayne, Billy
Joel, and Bonnie Tyler.
Rating:  out
of 5
Related Reviews:
Brazen Abbott - A Decade of Brazen Abbot
Brazen Abbott - My Resurrection
--George Dionne
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