Label: HMMR Records/Cargo Records
Review by Tony Cannella
It is hard to believe that American singer Robin Beck released her debut album over 30 years ago. On her latest outing, “Underneath” she continues to exhibit melodic rock charm throughout the 11-song, 40-minute disc. Once again Robin Beck is collaborating with her husband and House of Lords front man James Christian. He actually plays a huge role on this album. In addition to producing, co-writing and contributing vocals, he also plays guitar, bass and keyboards, so James Christian is a man of many talents, but the real star of this show is Robin Beck who is in fine form and seems to be getting better.
The opening duo of “Wrecking Ball” and “Ain’t That Just Like Love” provides a bouncy, up-tempo melodic opening to “Underneath”. The 3rd track, “Sprain” is backed by a wall of guitars and once again Robin Beck’s up-tempo raspy vocals are well up front. The title song “Underneath” follows and is a beautiful ballad and one of the highlights for me. The deliberate pacing of “Catfight” is next. “Burning Me Down” features a duet between Robin and James Christian. In addition to James Christian, “Underneath” boast some other very special guests, including: guitarist Jimi Bell, Glen Burtnik from Styx on guitar and Fiona Flanagan on backing vocals. Each adds their own unique talents to the overall quality of the album. Other highlights include: “Perfect Storm” and “You Can’t Fight Love”.
Sometimes it is very comforting to know what you are getting to get from an artist, and on “Underneath”, Robin Beck delivers to her fans some top-notch AOR music. What more could you ask for?
Rating – 75/100
Tracklist
- Wrecking Ball
- Ain’t That Just Like Love
- Sprain
- Underneath
- Catfight
- Check Your Attitude
- Burning Me Down
- Perfect Storm
- You Can’t Fight Love
- I Swear the Nights
- Follow You
Line Up
- Robin Beck – Vocals
- James Christian – Guitar, Bass & Keyboards
- Jimi Bell – Guitar
- Glen Burtnik – Guitar
- Tommy Denander – Guitar
- Jeff Batter – Keyboards
- BJ Zampa – Drums