NEWMAN: Into The Monster's Playground (A.O.R.): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

It's always the same thing before discovering a new Newman album: the Briton has such a marked identity with his delicate balance between finely chiseled AOR and energetic melodic hard rock that we have the impression each time that he won't succeed in surprising us. And yet, he systematically manages to slip in the few elements that will catch us without distorting his trademark. And it is not "Into The Monsters' Playground" that will deviate from the rule.

For this new delivery, Steve Newman again took care of everything, except the drums entrusted, as usual, to his old accomplice Rob McEwen. The only notable difference compared to "Ignition" (2020) is the total absence of guests. Once again, the production is impeccable while offering a slightly sharper approach, especially on the guitars. What is most striking when listening to these twelve tracks is their richness. Not only does Newman now offer hyper-catchy choruses but, beyond this essential element of a successful album in the field of melodic rock, he takes care to play on the variations of ambiances and tempi. The experience of the artist within Compass obviously left traces and we sometimes flirt with the progressive so much he takes the time to develop all the facets of some tracks ('This Life Alone').

It is not rare that Newman plays on the alternation of calm, even aerial verses ('Lightning Tree', 'Shadows Of Love') with catchy and unstoppable choruses ('Timebomb', 'Icon') but the elements differ in their proportioning and ordering and systematically bewitch the listener. A title such as 'Give Me Tonight' does not miss its target while surprising us with its sharp riff and its epileptic drums which finally give way to a long guitar solo all in emotion. It is necessary to underline that the soli are all luminous and take advantage of the necessary time to develop. Finally, we will note the discreet winks addressed to some glorious former. Indeed, it is easy to guess the fleeting shadow of a Scorpions, at the time of "Savage Amusement", on the introduction of 'I'll Be The One', or that of Foreigner through the keyboards of 'Spirit Cries' or the chorus of 'Shadows Of Love'.

"Into The Monsters' Playground" is a new demonstration of Newman's talent and its cover perfectly illustrates the melodic whirlwind that carries everything away. With this album, Steve Newman proves that he is always able to surprise and captivate us while respecting the specifications that make his identity. Here is a very beautiful work which can claim the title of album of the year in its category and which confirms the leadership of its author in this genre however encumbered. - Official website

NEWMAN

INTO THE MONSTER'S PLAYGROUND

AOR HEAVEN

A.O.R.