This is the fourth album from Toja, who originated in Mühlheim (Germany) in 1997, but their debut for Pure Rock. I am somewhat surprised that I haven’t come across these guys before as what we have here is a very classy selection of melodic hard rock and melodic metal, combining with lots of classic rock elements to create something that is both immediate and enjoyable the very first time it is played. There is a whole host of influences at play here, from Deep Purple to middle period Rainbow through Magnum and Journey into Pretty Maids and even a little Jag Panzer and Helloween. Singer Tommy Rinn (who is also one of three guitarists on the album) not only has a great range, but a depth and passion within his voice so that he comes across as somewhere between Dio and Glenn Hughes with the odd touch of Coverdale and Gillan. There is a breadth and control that many other singers should take notice of, as this is real quality.
But the rest of the band are no slouches either, and they produce music that is melodic but with plenty of balls, restrained but in your face with great harmony vocals and hooks. I enjoyed this the very first time I played it, but repeated listens have made me appreciate just how good this really is. For fans of classic melodic rock/metal, this is one that should not be missed. Of course, now I am wondering what the others sound like as well..
www.toja-rock.com
