Music review: Night Ranger – ‘Don’t Let Up’
I recently made a road trip to attend Rock the Arena II in Toledo to see some of my favorite rock bands of the ’80s. The all-day concert was headlined by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members Cheap Trick and also included appearances by CinderellaĢƵ Tom Keifer, Warrant, Quiet Riot, founding Ratt frontman Stephen Pearcy, Jack RussellĢƵ Great White, Vixen, Autograph and Trixter.
Night Ranger would make a great addition to Rock the Arena III.
I’m just putting it out there now for the promoters to consider for next year.
The new studio album from Night Ranger successfully recaptures the bandĢƵ knack for delivering melodic rock that features big guitar riffs and infectious melodies previously showcased on earlier albums like “Dawn Patrol,” “Midnight Madness” and “7 Wishes.”
Original members Brad Gillis, Kelly Keagy and Jack Blades continue to rock steady on the new arrangements as the band celebrates 35 years of success with more than 17 million albums sold.
Night RangerĢƵ debut release added to the soundtrack of my senior year of high school with the hits “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me” and “Sing Me Away.”
Still sounding as impressive now as the band did back in 1982, Night RangerĢƵ 12th studio effort opens with the spirited rocker “Somehow Someway” and is a throwback to the dueling guitars unleashed on earlier hits like “(You Can Still) Rock in America” and “EddieĢƵ Comin’ Out Tonight.”
“Running Out of Time,” “Day and Night” and “Say What You Want” are high-octane numbers designed to shake the stereo speakers.
Other tracks such as “Jamie” and “Comfort Me” are the perfect excuse for air guitarists everywhere to bust out into fits of passionate theatrics.
Power ballads “Nothing Left of Yesterday” and “We Can Work It Out” are reminiscent of the California rockerĢƵ mega hit “Sister Christian” and spotlight the softer side of Night Ranger.
“Don’t Let Up” proves that the band can still rock as hard as ever.
Night Ranger will make a Pittsburgh area appearance on April 21 at JergelĢƵ Rhythm Grille.