REVIEW : CORELEONI --- The Greatest Hits Part 1 (Frontiers Music s.r.l., February 2018)

Coreleoni is a new project that was founded by GOTTHARD's lead guitarist and founding member Leo Leoni and his goal is to pay a tribute to his classic Gotthard's days. In Leoni's own words : "On the 25th Anniversary of the release of the first GOTTHARD album, I wanted to pay tribute to songs like: DOWNTOWN, FIREDANCE, HIGHER, HERE COMES THE HEAT, IN THE NAME, RIDE ON…, LET IT BE, and ALL I CARE FOR. Songs that with Gotthard we have kind of left aside. We have re-recorded, refreshed, and "re-brushed" them in a respectful way. These songs are very dear to me and they are part of a period that will remain forever with me."

Except Leoni, the band includes Ronnie Romero (Lords Of Black, Rainbow) on vocals, Hena Habegger on drums, Jgor Gianola on guitar and Mila Merker on bass. The album, also, includes a new song, “Walk On Water”.

After the very first spin of this album (The Greatest Hits Part 1), I have to say that Leoni and his gang did an excellent job here. I, also, have to say that he is right by saying that all the songs were refreshed and re-brushed in a respectful way. All the songs kept the 'magic' of Gotthard and that's the thing that matters the most, imho. "Firedance" (which is one of my all time favorite tunes ever), "Higher", the emotional "Let It Be", the amazing ballad of "All I Care For" and the fast-paced "Here Comes The Heat" are all well-performed, well-played and, in my opinion, Ronnie Romero has done a phenomenal job regarding the vocals.  The new song "Walk On Water" is just killer!!!

I'm really thrilled about this release! Excellent musicianship, soulful and passionate vocals by Romero and with the 'spirit' of the classic Gotthard sound to haunt every single moment this album is just awesome!!!

Rating : 9,5/10