VIANA – Forever Free [Japanese Edition +1] (2019) *HQ Exclusive*

320_1 /// 320_2 /// HQ 1 /// HQ 2

Italian guitarist, songwriter and producer Stefano Viana already caused a stir with his first album ‘Viana’ (2017) which received very positive reviews and AOR / Melodic Rock fans loved it. Following his passion with enthusiasm Stefano contacted singer and producer Bryan Cole (Giant, Steel City, solo artist) and started to work on new material.
The result, “Forever Free“, VIANA‘s second effort even more complete than its predecessor, with awesome melodic tunes, hooks and superb arrangements. This Japanese edition, now out of print, includes a bonus track.
The music was recorded in the ‘good old days fashion’ and this has made a great impact on the end result as the musicians have bonded and made a richer sound. This new album features some great musicians such as Terry Brock (Strangeways) and Anna Portalupi (Hardline, Terry Brock) and also boasts the talents of great American guitar player John Roth from Giant, Winger and Starship.
The 11 tracks we have here are all strong songs – no fillers here – just great melodic hard rock played with a passion and flair.

Opener “Forever Free” showcases a much more dynamic production than its predecessor while still working in a melodic hard rock anchored in the 70’s and 80’s. Energetic and melodic, it benefits from hyper catchy choruses reinforced by first-class multi-part backing vocals. Stefano Viana’s play a bright solo, Bryan Cole offers a tight ocal performance with a color similat to Jimi Jamison.

Scents of Survivor hover over ‘We Can’t Choose’, then some Foreigner over the unstoppable ‘Heart Of Stone’. Pride Of Lions is not far off on the catchy ‘In The Name Of Love’, we hear Boston on the festive ‘Friday Night’, and Journey on the melodic and light ‘I Wanna Tell You’.
These are simple references but in no way plagiarism and the result remains totally consistent especially when the majestic midtempo ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ or the bewitching power ballad ‘Do You Remember’ are added to this fantastic trak list. Note the presence of the unique Terry Brock alongside Cole on this last track for extra emotion (and quality).
The ensemble closes with a fast and hymnical “We Will Never Say Goodbye”. The bonus track is ”Do You Remember (Acoustic)” offering a different vibe to this already great tune.

As expected, “Forever Free” is confirmation of VIANA’s talent. Magnificently supported by a stunning Bryan Cole. Author of a high-profile performance, Stefano Viana proves that he is both a luminous guitarist and a talented composer.
VIANA has hit the soft spot for anyone after an 80s influenced melodic rock fix made with class.
HIGHLY Recommended

01. Forever Free
02. In the Name of Love
03. Heart of Stone
04. We Can’t Choose
05. Who Do You Think You Are
06. Live Free or Die
07. Do You Remember
08. Friday Night
09. I Wanna Tell You
10. We Will Never Say Goodbye
BONUS TRACK:
11. Do You Remember (Acoustic)

Bryan Cole (Steelcity) – Lead and Backing vocals
Stefano Viana – Guitars
Anna Portalupi (Hardline, Terry Brock) – Bass
Adam Ernst – Drums
Francesco Marras – Guitar
Pasquale India – Keyboards
Terry Brock – Backing vocals, Lead on Do You Remember
special guest:
John Roth (Winger, Starship) lead guitar on 1,3,7

Out of Print