TIMSON AOR – The Next Level (2025) *HQ*
A year after their very well received debut, TIMSON AOR are back with their second album, properly titled ”The Next Level”. Indeed, this duo’s love for the ’80s sound of the genre is augmented and perfected on this sophomore effort.
The 11 songs deliver everything we love about AOR and Melodic Rock – soaring melodies, stellar production, and songs / choruses that just wouldn’t leave your head. Regarding this beloved genre, this is an absolute triumph.
It’s rare to find an album that is truly perfect in its goal, but ”The Next Level” is exactly that. If you buy only one album this year, make it this one. AOR / Melodic Rock fans, you simply cannot afford to miss out on this absolute gem. Even the artwork is stunning – a fiery phoenix rising between dark city buildings, perfectly capturing the spirit of the music.
From the very first bits it’s clear that this album isn’t just a sequel – it’s an evolution. Mark Timson (guitars / keyboards / bass) and Lukky S (vocals / keyboards / lead guitars / bass) have outdone themselves, delivering a collection of songs that radiate passion, power, and polish.
Lukky’s voice is pure magic – melodic, soulful, and just the right amount of grit to inject every line with raw emotion. Imagine a perfect blend of Darren Wharton, Frank Dimino and Dann Huff, and you’re starting to get the picture. The chemistry between these two is undeniable, and their songwriting skills are on another level entirely.
The production? Simply flawless. Karl Groom of Threshold was the perfect choice to bring this album to life. No matter how you listen – headphones, car stereo, laptop, hi-end – it sounds massive, crisp, and powerful. Every instrument shines, every note is crystal clear, and the energy is infectious. This is how melodic rock should sound.
And then there are the songs. Since opener ‘The Wind Whispers (Your Name)’, you know you’re in for something special. This track is a thunderous anthem with an irresistible chorus, a driving riff, and a scorching lead solo. ‘One Step Ahead’ keeps the momentum going, its soaring chorus and Lukky’s jaw-dropping guitar work making it an instant classic. Mark’s rich keyboard textures add depth, and together, they create pure melodic magic.
‘Nevermore’ drips with class and elegance, the perfect slice of AOR, filled with lush keyboards, pulsing rhythms, and yet another spectacular solo. Then there’s ‘Starlight’, an up-tempo rocker that gets straight to the point with its unforgettable chorus – this is melodic rock at its absolute best.
‘Be True to Yourself’ follows, bursting with energy and dazzling guitar interplay that will leave you breathless.
And just when you think you’ve heard it all, ‘From the Ashes’ sweeps in – a stunning power ballad featuring a beautifully delicate piano intro and soaring, heartfelt vocals. It’s a lighters-in-the-air moment, the kind of song that sticks with you forever. ‘Wake the Night’ is the ultimate driving song, made for cruising under the stars, while ‘The Last Ride’ continues the anthemic rock masterclass, brimming with energy and spine-tingling lead guitar work.
‘Where the Sun Meets the Sea’ is another highlight, a dreamy, harmony-laden masterpiece with a massive chorus and an electrifying guitar solo. It’s pure melodic bliss.
‘Midnight Radio’ turns up the intensity, a foot-stomping, fist-pumping anthem that bursts into an unforgettable chorus. The way Mark’s rich keyboards and Lukky’s soaring vocals intertwine is pure gold – classic AOR but 2025.
Then we reach the perfect ending – ‘Farewell’ This heartfelt closer is Timson AOR’s answer to Whitesnake’s ‘We Wish You Well’ – restrained, elegant, and simply stunning.
That unique Eighties AOR sound belongs to that era, these were major productions with many people involved polishing things to detail from production and A&R to songwriting & arrangements – and it’s almost impossible to recreate again.
However Timson AOR comes close on ”The Next Level” – just two talented musicians and their love for classic AOR. And they have done a remarkable job here.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
01. The Wind Whispers (Your Name)
02. One Step Ahead
03. Nevermore
04. Starlight
05. Be True To Yourself
06. From The Ashes
07. Wake the Night
08. The Last Ride
09. Where The Sun Meets The Sea
10. Midnight Radio
11. Farewell
Mark Timson – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Synths, Drums
Lukky S. – Vocals, Lead Guitar, Bass, Keyboards
Pre order:
timson-aor.com/store
