BRIAN BARNHOUSE – Here Today (2020)
“Here Today” is the new album from American musician / songwriter BRIAN BARNHOUSE, a delicious Melodic Rock collection of songs with that sweet late Eighties feel. As proof, first track is titled ‘That 80s Song’
The history of Nebraska born Brian Barnhouse goes back to the early ’90s when he was a member of hard rock bands like Rayze and Mother Tung, which played a style considered old-fashioned during the depressive grunge years. Barnhouse recorded a couple of demos, but the industry wasn’t interested in this type of music at the moment.
After a hiatus of almost 15 years he released by himself his first solo album “Clarified” in 2014. Produced by AXE mastermind Bobby Barth it gave Brian a pretty good start. Four years later Brian released his 2nd solo album.
Now 2020 we have “Here Today” and the result is simply stunning. Despite of being self-managed production sounds like million bucks for an indie, and the songs are pure Melodic Rock gold with a late 80s / early 90s vibe yet an updated sound.
There’s a mature songwriting, free from the typical cliches.
“That 80s Song“ is a charming homage to the good old days of melodic rock music, and “Roll Away“ might have a certain light midwest rock touch, but always with a melodic rok pulse.
Songs like “Holding Out”, “Peace of Mind” or “Swallow It Down” display varied influences from such as Rick Springfield, Eddie Money and even John Farnham.
Putting together steady rhythms, proficient guitar work, and wonderful vocal harmonies, the combination becomes quite strong. Brian Barnhouse definitely knows how to sing a tune.
The songs are interesting and the music culls the best ideas from the golden melodic rock era. I am very impressed with this gifted songwriter, definitely an artist to keep an eye on.
The album is available in Europe at AOR Heaven’s store, go and buy it.
Highly Recommended
01 – That 80’s Song
02 – Take Me as I Am
03 – Here Today
04 – Holding Out
05 – Roll Away
06 – So Much Alive
07 – Peace of Mind
08 – Swallow It Down
09 – Tell Me What to Say
10 – When Is Mine
BUY IT
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