I have almost given up on the current progressive scene. Mired in throwbacks to the ‘glory days’ of the early 70’s, progressive metal and a lack of strong releases in the last couple years have left me to search other avenues of music. Having said this, the AOR scene suffers from nearly the same problem to my ears. The plagiarism and hero worship of Bon Jovi, Journey and Poison has essentially brought any innovation in this movement to a screeching halt. Yes, occasionally both styles of music produce an excellent work, enough for me to stand up and take notice, but these days, they are too few and far between.
Enter Mike Florio. Arisen is a combination of both AOR and Progressive rock. Indeed, not a new concept. Styx and Kansas did it 30 plus years ago, much to the delight of fans and record company accountants alike, and there have been a few bands taking on this style in the years since with mixed results for the most part, but for this writer, Arisen is different.
Why? First and most importantly, it’s the songs. Each of the seven tracks are well written and executed. Mike Florio’s influences are hard to miss, but in each song I sense a genuine love for the style of music he is working in. This is not a nostalgia trip, nor should it be. Florio has added his own personality to the music and the listener is all the better for it. Hard to pick a favorite, but Bells for 1827, Media Rise and Paradise from Stone stand out for this listener.
Second, it’s the sound of the CD. Wonderful vocals from Mike, signing in a style that will bring to mind an era long gone for many younger listeners, but for myself, simply a reminder of how far the current music scene has lost the art of good vocals. This guy can sing! Honorable mention for Bill Thomas on guitar, Dave Baily on bass and drummer Steve Golden. All three are outstanding on this disc, in particular Thomas’ guitar work leaving me to wonder where he’s been hiding?
For fans of Queen, Magnum, Trillion, Asia and other Gods of pomp rock, Arisen is a must have. For those that want to hear quality melodic progressive rock with a fresh approach, Arisen is a mere dollars down that you will not regret.
Here’s hoping we hear more of Mike Florio in the future!
