Review JIM PETERIK & WOLRD STAGE ‘Roots & Shoots Vol. 1’

Jim Peterik is a well-resonating name in the fields of rock. He was the founder of Survivor, the band that had with ‘Eye of the Tiger’ a timeless hit. After Survivor disbanded in 1988 Peterik was and is part of various projects. One of those is called Jim Peterik & World Stage who’s debut album hit the shelves in 2000.

These days the newest effort has been unveiled; an album entitled ‘Roots & Shoots Vol. 1’. The album is a generation-bridging one as Peterik brought together some of the veterans of classic rock (‘Roots’) and young talents (‘Shoots’) with potential.

What all involved artists have in common is a passion for well-crafted melodic rock with a positive vibe. Listening to the music on ‘Roots & Shoots Vol. 1’ is as a colorful as the artwork indicates. This longplayer entails all the ingredients of melodic rock and it starts with ‘Dangerous Combination’ featuring Kevin Cronin & REO Speedwagon. The rocking opener is an energetic start before the acoustic ‘Before Anyone Knows We’re Gone’ takes over. It is Jim Peterik’s son Colin who gives this tune a special touch and feel, showing the musical talent of the family.

AOR comes to shine with ‘Last Dream Home’ with Don Barnes (38 Special) and again it’s the excellent melodies that captivate the listener. A real rocker is ‘Mend Fences’ featuring Night Ranger’s Kelly Keagy which adds another color to the picture and enables a well-designed flow from start to finish. ‘As I Am’ adds a part to this flow too. The soulful tune with Ashton Brooke Gill at the mic represents the talents on the album and it is ‘Roots & Shoots Vol. 1’ providing an extra stage for these upcoming musicians.

Also, not to forget is the touching closer ‘Fire and Water’. The duet between Lisa McClowry and Mike Mikulskis is a heart-warming moment on the album and provides a peace of mind moment.

‘Roots & Shoots Vol. 1’ is a next level of Jim Peterik & World Stage. The combination of musicians and guest on the album is what it connects with the previous releases and still the newest effort brings some new to the plate. Classic rock with great hooks and melodies is what you get with this longplayer and fans who like this blend will certainly enjoy this record.