I just discovered this album by the “Martie Peters Group” released in 2005. At the time I was shopping for new releases such “Reece” and “Danger Danger”. But this “MPG” album turned out to be the biggest surprise of them all. From the cover and back photos I knew this was unmistakably an AOR album; however I clearly did not expect the melodic twin guitar attack (courtesy of Martin Slot and Rene Shades) and thunderous drumming (from Jesper Werner) that hits you straight in the face, relentlessly present throughout the album.
In context, the guys in MPG know how to kick start their songs with flamboyant melodies and aggressive rhythmic while concluding with a smooth AOR chorus; and this is the album’s greatest advantage. In addition Martie Peters has a very fitting, for this genre, voice which is identical in sound and style to that of Mike Tramp (“White Lion”). AOR fans can not possibly go wrong with this one as “MPC” has all the qualities that shape a classic melodic rock album. Songs like “Riot on the 5th floor”, “Only Dreaming”, “Number one”, “Bird on the Wire” and “Take me over the edge” are destined to please any rock fan as they are products of cohesive songwriting and flamboyant performance. This is indeed AOR but not of the conservative kind; MPG have turned all instruments and performances up to 11! And that’s the way to go!!!
A must for all AOR admirers as well as White Lion fans.
1.The Beast Inside
2.Riot On The 5th Floor
3.Only Dreaming
4.Number 1
5.Takes Some Time
6.Heart Is An Empty Space
7.A World Without You
8.Take Me Over The Edge
9.Bird On The Wire
10.Hard To Choose
11.Dixie Toot
Martie Peters Vocals
Martin Slott Guitar
Anthony Lledo Guitar
BJ Bass
Jakob Schlein Drums
Martie Peters Group – MPG (2005)
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