Review TAK MATSUMOTO GROUP “TMG II”

The Tak Matsumoto Group released a debut album called “TMG I” in 2004. The project was a collaboration between Japanese guitar wizard Tak Matsumoto, Eric Martin and Jack Blades. The result of this teamwork was a stunning melodic rock release, but things ended rather quickly after the release of the debut and a few live shows.

Now, 20 years later, the guys have reunited to record a new longplayer simply called “TMG II”. Driven by the same three iconic musicians, the project recorded a new exciting album that shows creativity, passion for music and a great sense for excellent melodies. On drums this time is none other than Matt Sorum, who provides the vibrant heartbeat for songs like the rocking opener “Crash Down Line”.

With “Eternal Flame” the band invited BABYMETAL to join them. The song is a great example of brilliant melodic rock, although the Babymetal contribution doesn’t do anything for a song that would have sounded better with Eric Martin’s vocals alone. The same goes for the following track. “The Story of Love” with a guest appearance of Lisa sounds nice but lacks the kick. There have been better duets in the history of rock. These two songs are the weak spots on an album that reflects the greatness of AOR and rock.

One of the success factors is that the band fuses catchy melodies without compromising on heaviness. There are always some rough edges that add a dynamic to songs like the grooving “My Life”, one of the best songs on the album, and the classic rock inspired “Dark Island Woman”. “Endless Sky” is another moment on this longplayer that unfolds its brilliance immediately, and even the heartwarming “Faithful Now” is a treat.

These kinds of songs are the result of experience and passion, which is a kind of common theme throughout the entire album. The finale is also a delight for the ears. There is the upbeat “The Great Divide” before “Guitar Hero” heralds the end of this well done album. A thunderous beginning, great vocal lines and a furious guitar are the key ingredients of this great closer.

“TMG II” is a stunning new album from a group of passionate rock and metal trail-blazers who give free rein to their musical hearts. These songs are a superb example of melodic rock with roots from several decades ago, transferred into a contemporary setting. This is an album you don’t want to miss.