Keepers Of The Flame by Neon Rider (Pride & Joy Music)
Keepers Of The Flame by Neon Rider (Pride & Joy Music)
Pride & Joy Music continues to establish itself as one of the premier labels for hard rock and AOR, and now Keepers Of The Flames by Neon Rider can be added to the label’s ever-growing list of must-own releases. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Neon Rider embarked on their musical journey in 2020, embracing the classic melodic rock sound of the 1980s while injecting it with a fresh, contemporary energy. Following the success of their 2024 debut Destination Unknown, Pride & Joy now presents the next exhilarating chapter in the band’s upward trajectory with an album destined to captivate melodic rock enthusiasts worldwide.
The album erupts into life with “Drowning In Shallow,” launching the listener into immediate overdrive before giving way to the infectious, radio-ready brilliance of “Higher,” a track that possesses all the makings of a modern melodic rock anthem. The standout moments continue to arrive in abundance, with songs such as “Helluva Ride,” “Pump Up The Radio,” and the stunning title track illuminating the landscape with soaring hooks, impeccable musicianship, and irresistible melodic charm.
“Those Times Are Over Now” brims with heartfelt emotion and reflective intensity, while “Dominoes” dazzles with shimmering keyboard textures and an atmospheric, almost cinematic delivery. The journey reaches a triumphant conclusion with the one-two punch of “Jukebox Anthem” and “Another Love Story,” sending listeners into a state of melodic euphoria and leaving a lasting impression long after the final notes fade away.
Credit is due to every member of Neon Rider for crafting such a vibrant and memorable collection of songs. Marcos Nieva Green delivers a commanding vocal performance throughout, while Hernán Cattáneo’s expressive guitar work, Daniel Bravo’s rock-solid bass and backing vocals, and Pablo Ureta’s dynamic drumming provide the perfect foundation for the band’s soaring sound.
Fans of legendary acts such as Journey, Foreigner, Survivor, and Toto will find plenty to love within the expertly crafted songs of Keepers Of The Flame. Balancing classic AOR sensibilities with a distinctly modern touch, Neon Rider has delivered an album that celebrates the enduring power of melodic rock while confidently forging its own identity. Here’s hoping the band makes its way to the United States soon, because these songs seem destined to shine in a live setting.
(Review by Ken Morton)
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