NEWMAN / UNDER SOUTHERN SKIES (2011)

Steve Newman is a very charismatic musician. All his releases are well-crafted melodic rock music with catchy melodies and great songwriting. He achieved to build a strong reputation over the years around his name with every album that he has released. for me it's always a great pleasure to have a brand new Newman effort. His last opus, "The Art Of Balance", which was released last year, was a fine piece of pure melodic rock bliss. Nowadays, Mr. Newman is back with "Under Southern Skies", which marks the 8th studio album, and features some great songs with big melodies, memorable chorus lines and a tight musicianship.

"Killing Me" is the track which opens this brilliant release. A classic Newman tune with a very good riff and Newman's passionate performance. Just an appetizer of what's coming up next! "If He Loves You" is in the same mood with the opener tune and features a monsterous chorus which makes you wanna push the repeat button again and again! "Under Southern Skies" is a heavier one. It starts with a big, in-your-face riffing and Newman's kinda of 'aggressive' vocal lines. A huge track but lacks a bit in the chorus line. With "Strength To Carry On" comes the first ballad. Very good arrangements and an incredible solo make this tune one of the best moments here. "Ghost In The Night" is a very good rocker while "Without Warning" is a kinda of melacholic AOR tune. "She's Gone" has a huge melody, a catchy as hell chorus line and it's my personal favourite track from this new album. "Fire With Fire" is a moodier song and has some bluesier pinches. "Save No Prisoners" is another highlight and "Wish You Were Here" is another emotional ballad with an excellent harmony. It's one of these songs that Newman's performances travels you far away. "Montserrat" which closes the album has some really interesting arrangements. An excellent way to close this solid album.

Bottom line is that Newman achieved to give us another excellent Melodic Rock release. Great performances, as always, hyge melodies, emotions and some really strong tracks are things that you are going to hear in "Under Southern Skies".

HeavyParadise's Rating : 8/10

Track List : 1. Killing Me 2. If He Loves You 3. Under Southern Skies 4. Strength To Carry On 5. Ghost In The Night 6. Without Warning 7. She's Gone 8. Fire With Fire 9. Save No Prisoners 10. Wish You Were Here 11. Montserrat