FM - Futurama (2014) CD Review

FM - Futurama (2014)

Riff City Records / Universal Music | April 8, 2014
CD Review by Edwin van Hoof

FM is one of melodic rock's finest outfits. The band has been labelled Europe's answer to Journey in the past, and lives up to that status in the present and future… After an absence from 1995 - 2007, the band suddenly reported back with the outstanding "Metropolis." Since their reunion, FM has reclaimed their number 1 position as European frontrunner in melodic rock and AOR, underlining it with gold by their "Rockville" duo release last year. Two jaw dropping CD's packed with some of the best melodic rock tracks I heard in years; instant classics!


Spawning from that creative flow, FM releases this brand new EP, running over 45 minutes, displaying the band at their very best: onstage and off stage.


"Futurama" starts of this 50+ minutes EP (!), and it's exactly what fans and melodic rock addicts are waiting for. Catchy melodic rock with an edge, driven and passionate. It instantly warps you back to the bands acclaimed release "Tough it Out," a classic in the genre. The title track is a short intro tune, leading us in the magnificent "Cold Hearted," a hammer with little hints of blues. Overland's warm and hoarse voice combine just excellent with the wall of sound FM unfolds. Slick, yet powerful, delivered with passion and drive. The song drives forward slowly alongside a blunt and powerful riff, has an immense hook line instantly nesting in your head. Jupp's drumming is solid and powerful, well lined up with the pumping bass of Goldsworthy. A solid foundation which boosted by the interactive keyboard playing of Jem Davis coloring the overall sounds. Over all this slick melodic finesse, Kirkpatrick's immaculate guitar shreds and soloing is simply astonishing. Clean soloing and loud riffs, sometimes gritty, at the next moment very heartfelt and slick. Trademark melodic FM rock!


"Bad that's Good in You" is another pearl to the crown of melodic rock. Slick melodies and an awesome bridge towering up towards and ear mingling chorus. It bears all the typical ingredients from the band's elusive past and will be one of those live highlights. Sugar-coated without missing the indescribable punch FM has adopted as their own.


"Preying on my Mind" is the third new song on this remarkable EP. An ear mingling and drop dead gorgeous rock ballad with a tender and warm setting; camp fire material.


It lingers on heartfelt and emotional, with close harmony vocals reminiscent to gospel. The acoustic guitar solo mid-section is perfectly matching the warm mood, and lush atmosphere provided by Davis' Hammond organ. Overland proves once again to be one of melodic rock's very best vocalists around as he takes this song to an ultimate high.


"Futurama" is furthermore packed with what this band does best--perform live…, With timeless masterpieces such as "Tough Love," and the two "Aphrodisiac" classic, "Closer to Heaven," and "Breathe Fire." The old songs go hand-in-hand with amazing new tracks, such as the wonderful "Story of my Life" and the immaculate "Crosstown Train." In addition, 6 Live tracks, displaying the band's excellent and exciting performing skills, and making it a must buy. Excellent value for your money.


Last track on this excellent CD is an extended version of "Cold Hearted," even better than the regular version!


FM clings to what they do best, rock out in the best MEGA melodic tradition!


This new ‘album' is a great addition to the collection and must have for fans. Check out this English outfit if you're into melodic rock and AOR at www.FMofficial.com, and order this excellent CD. It is excellent value for the money, and I promise you; this is your new favorite band!


- UnRatedMagazine.com