Following "American Amadeus" which, like its predecessor, paid tribute to the bands that ruled the golden decade of hair-metal and Sunset Boulevard, John Diva doesn't hide the fact that he's going to continue on the same path with "The Big Easy" whose cover announces the colour. It's no coincidence that the cool, doo-wop introduction that launches the newcomer is called 'California Rhapsody'. Welcome to the world of the German quintet and its unconcealed influences.
Once again, the shadow of the great old-timers hangs over most of the compositions on offer here. It's impossible not to guess David Lee Roth behind the eponymous track, Def Leppard in the punchy 'Thunder', Poison in the sparkling chorus of 'Back In The Days', Aerosmith lurking under the catchy swing of 'Boys Don't Play With Dolls' or Bon Jovi in the unifying 'Wild At Heart'. John Diva even pays direct homage by quoting many of the hits of the time on 'God Made Radio', which will melt the asphalt like a fast car on the highways.
If "The Big Easy" doesn't bring anything new, its however a pleasure to be carried away by this collection of deliciously old-fashioned and refreshing songs. The choruses are for the most part unstoppable, the riffs catchy and the soli well placed. We'll also note the lovely duel that illuminates an enthusiastic 'The Limit Is The Sky'. Although clearly anchored in its influences, this album is nonetheless varied and maintains a good mood throughout its listening thanks to a positive and contagious energy, as well as a fine production. Even the ballad 'Hit And Run', which is very conventional, is no less touching with its moving chorus and its brilliant solo.
Without revolutionizing the genre and assuming without shame their fascination for certain 80's bands, John Diva & The Rockets Of Love offer a new collection of exhilarating and delightful tracks. "The Big Easy" has no other ambition than to make you have a great time and it succeeds perfectly. This is an opus that is likely to occupy the car radios during the summer period.