MASQUERADE – Masquerade [Japanese Remaster +5]

If there’s a Melodic Hard Rock / AOR album that deserves to be rescued from oblivion, that is undoubtedly the self-titled debut from Swedes MASQUERADE. Well, this is exactly what have done the Japanese Marquee / Avalon label, with this awesome remastered reissue plus 5 bonus tracks.

“Masquerade” was originally released in 1992. The sound of this superb release instantly reminds of TNT’s early glory days, and some Def Leppard, at least in their layered backround vocals and, overall, is the perfect example of how a great Scandi Melodic Hard Rock album should sound!

This album has it all: great melodies, hooky arrangements, superb songwritting, catchy tunes, bombastic production, a very good singer but, most of all, a fantastic guitar player. Thomas Eric, when it comes to soloing or riffing, is simply amazing.

It’s nonsense to mention a highlight: all songs are. Believe me.
No fillers here, just 12 songs (there’s two short interludes) of pure melodic hard rock bliss with a rocking AOR feeling.

“Masquerade” is one of the so called must-have albums that should be owned by every Scandi Melodic Hard Rock / AOR fan out there.
The CD was a bit difficult to find for years, but now this remastered reissue turn this a mandatory purchase. Additionally you get 5 bonuses; all are pre-production demos but worth every bit.

So, for the ones that haven’t got the chance to listen to this gem in the past, go and buy it with your eyes closed. It’s pure gold.
A Must Have.

Marquee / Avalon ~ MICP-11184

01. Gimme All Your Love
02. Four Letter Words
03. Our Time Has Come
04. Sudden Love Affair
05. Ride With The Wind
06. Dawning Of The Day
07. Le Baugeux De Triomphe
08. Wild Child
09. Dancin’ On The Edge
10. Liaison
11. Justice
12. All Night All Day
13. Give It A Shot
14. Lonely World
BONUS TRACKS:
15. Stop
16. Main Attraction
17. Ride With The Wind
18. Lonely Cry
19. Give It A Shot

Tony Yoanson – vocals
Thomas Eric – guitars
Henrik Lundberg – bass
Marco Tapani – drums
Dag Selboskar – session keyboards

BUY IT !
www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/MICP-11184
.