Firehouse returns with O2, their 7th album, and with it they try to get back to their original melodic rock style. For the most part, it works, as Firehouse provides their fans with a fresh collection of upbeat, guitar-oriented songs.

The Performance: With O2, Firehouse delivers a solid performance, vocalist CJ Snare's pipes are in usual melodic shape. Guitarist Bill Leverty is the highlight of the album, his guitar chops are flawless, fast, and fiery. Leverty just keeps improving album after album, he should receive more recognition as a guitar hero. Bassist Perry Richardson is really missed on this record, specially his vocals, there seem to be far less vocal harmonies on O2 and it definitely hurts it. New bassist Bruce Waibel has the chops, but they somehow sound out of place, perhaps once he gets more accustomed to the band things will gel better. Drummer Michael Foster delivers another good, strong performance.

The Songs: The guys in firehouse have penned some great songs throughout the years, but somehow on O2, the songs fail to capture you. While most tracks are good, solid songs, nothing on the album jumps out and sticks in your head for long. Avoid track 3 ("The Dark") at all costs since it's easily the worst Firehouse song ever written. It features C.J. Snare attempting to rap (Ugh!), and he really should stick to singing (Eminem he's not - THANK GOD!). There are some real highlights though, and they include the catchy "Unbelievable" (great guitar riff/incredible drumming), the mid-tempo "Don't Fade On Me", the rockin' "Call Of The Night", and the beautiful "Loving You Is Paradise".

The Production: O2 is a well produced record, the instruments are well mixed and the lead vocals shine. The background vocals could have been a bit louder, though.

The Bottom Line: Essential for Firehouse fans! O2 is a solid Rock N' Roll album from a very talented band. While it's not their best effort, the album is full of great vocals, solid songs, and fancy fretwork. Definitely worth picking up if you're a fan of guitar driven melodic rock.

Shred Pick - "Loving You Is Paradise"

Reviewed by Henry Bocanegra

Artist Web Site: www.firehousemusic.com

Check out our interview with Firehouse guitarist Bill Leverty.

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