An absolutely essential purchase.

A few years ago the marvellous folk at Escape released the long awaited, some would say lost, debut album from AOR stars Seven. Another great record followed and now we have vocalist Mick Devine's first solo opus to enjoy. With Steve Morris and Brian J Anthony making up the band, you just know this is going to be a top quality release.

The opener 'Strange Voices' is a real joy with its haunting intro, before we hear for the first time the instantly recognisable Devine vocals. This song is a good AOR track that is an ideal opener. 'Live Forever' follows with a funky start before Morris' guitar kicks in. This song has a chorus to die for and will be in your head all day – an early album highlight. The style changes to Blues with the excellent 'Home' which really showcases Morris and Devine's talents to the fore, and is another catchy number.

After the great opening trio things slow down a little with the beautiful 'So Much Better', which could be a hit if picked up by radio, I am convinced it is that good. Next we turn to a bit of Country tinged Rock with 'Hope Rising'; it works though, and I am so glad that the record has various styles and is not an AOR by numbers project.

My favourite track is 'Standing In The Shadows' which picks up the pace and is a fantastic melodic rocker that could have been a Seven song – a song of the year contender for me. 'Life Goes On' and 'Another Way' are really pleasant mid-tempo tracks. My final highlight arrives with the album closer 'Game Over', which is a real rocker featuring a great solo section from Morris and Anthony. The guitar work is sublime and this track makes you want to hit play again.

This album is superb, with a real variety of styles. Devine is a great vocalist and pairing him with Morris and Anthony is a dream team. It is an absolutely essential purchase and continues a long list of excellent releases from Escape. Make sure this is top of your shopping list!

Richard Epps