Degreed - Public Address.

DEGREED

PUBLIC ADDRESS

(Frontiers)

By Paul Davies

            This Swedish four-piece Hard Melodic Rock outfit’s seventh album is loaded with back-to-back stonewall magnificent tunes. It’s an album joyfully cluttered with superbly constructed compositions. The clever finessed arrangements also reveal a maturity in their ever-lengthening musical stride across these twelve tracks. Continuing a golden seam of songwriting to follow up last year's impressive 'Are You Ready' release, the creative impulse beats strong in Degreed's collective heart.

            In fact, it's worth remembering that the phenomenally big sound generated throughout 'Public Address' is created by four players. 'Big Plans' possesses a stuttering guitar riff that drives headlong into a huge melodic chorus; the first of many on this recording. There are many recognisable Melodic Rock motifs signposting these Rock radio friendly tracks. This is illustrated by the second track 'Who Are You (To Say)' and its follow up 'The Way Of The World'.

            A group's ability to stand head and shoulders above their contemporaries is in the versatility and execution of their songwriting. The Melodic Power Ballad 'This Is Love' impressively ticks this box as does 'Ride Along' with its chanting chorus, pounding rhythm and twisty guitar riffs. Although none of this would be out of place in the late 80s, early 90s American FM cream of Melodic Hard Rock band's output, Degreed do more than wear their influences on their sleeves. They bring a personality and character to their delivery as 'Free Again' punches hard with its catchy riff, verse, chorus and uplifting key change. 

            As well as recording an album of banging tunes, played exquisitely well, none of this would translate without being interpreted by a top-class rock vocalist. Robin Eriksson excels in the vocal department, playing bass, to boot, as he resoundingly proves on another engaging Power Ballad, 'Don't Be A Stranger', and the atmospheric 'A Safe Place'. This album is more than a safe bet for anyone who values quality Hard Rock with a Melodic punch.