Review ROB MORATTI “Sovereign”

Canadian singer Rob Moratti is best known for his years with Saga. He was the band’s frontman from 2008 to 2011, and he has also released several solo albums. With “Sovereign, ” the Toronto-based vocalist unveils a new album featuring 11 songs. “Sovereign” is Moratti’s sixth studio album and continues his musical journey.

Rooted in rock and AOR, Moratti delivers songs that reveal their melodic beauty immediately, beginning with “Don’t Give Up on Love.” Joel Hoekstra’s excellent guitar playing adds heaviness and power to the songs, whereas Fredrik Bergh’s keyboards add superb density to the opener and the entire album.

Despite the sweet melodies, none of the songs on “Sovereign” are trivial or easily replaceable. There isn’t much wiggle room in AOR, but Moratti really challenges the genre’s framework. Whether listening to a calmer, soulful tune like “Every Word” or the pulsating “Locked Down,” each song is an ear pleaser in the best sense of the word. Although songs like “Two Hearts” bring back memories of the glorious ’80s, there is still enough of a modern twist to make the album shine.

Moratti and his bandmates navigate through this tracklist with savvy, experience, and creativity, embracing the entire spectrum of melodic rock. The upbeat “I’ll Never Break Your Heart” and the grooving “The Calling” are entertaining listening experiences. “Angel” lives up to all the genre’s trademarks and still fascinates. The captivating melodies are so good that even fans of heavier metal music might be interested in these songs.

The album title, “Sovereign,” fits perfectly with what Rob Moratti offers. These eleven songs are a treat for the ears and mind. The colorful positivity resonating through each song transforms darker days into colorful moments in life. This album is enjoyable, even for those who don’t usually listen to AOR.