CD review HARDLINE ‘Life’

(8/10) The 1992 album ‘Double Eclipse’ was a great start for Hardline, initiated by the Gioeli brothers. Unfortunately the great start wasn’t followed by a great continuation. It took ten years and some line-up changes before the second album ‘II’ saw the light of day. Since then the band releases longplayers on a more regular base and it’s ‘Life’ that stands for a next sign of life of the quintet.

The only founding member that’s still active in Hardline is frontman Johnny Gioeli and it’s his voice being a crucial trademark of Hardline’s sound. ‘Life’ is for sure lively release, featuring Hard Rock that’s built on the strong pillars of cool riffs, well-done hooks and catchy vocal lines. Hardline’s success formula is that the guys found the right mix of sounding heavy by also adding melodies that allow for a fan chant right away.

Also the new album doesn’t need a lot of spins to blossom. Songs work right away and it’s Gioeli’s voice that adds power and feel to each of the twelve songs. There isn’t a bad moment on the album and songs like to classic rock oriented ‘Hold On to Right’ are well-crafted Rock anthems that spread a joyful vibe.

Hardline delivers with ‘Life’ to expectations. If you’re a fan of the band you can easily go for this release too. You will not be disappointed.

(8/10)

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