Rough Edge: Da Vinci CD Reviews

DA VINCI

"Da Vinci" (MTM Classix; 2006)

Again a record that went for sky high prices on eBay sees its re-release: the debut from Scandi rockers Da Vinci.

Da Vinci were the Norwegian youngsters that blended the typical ingredients from the European scene with those of Scandinavian acts like Europe, Treat, Skagarack and Dalton. This self-titled CD features large, swirling choirs draped over razor sharp and excellent guitar licks, boosted by large choirs and potent production. MTM Classix certainly pleases a lot of fans with this classic.

The opening track, “Looking for Love,” sets the tone for a collection of finger-licking, poppy melodic rock. This song is perhaps the best the band recorded as well, with its large and infectious keyboards and sharp riffing. The chorus is just as infectious and sticks with you instantly.

In fact, all of the songs here are packed with these ingredients, and topped off with a lightning fast guitar solos, as in “Dreamin” or the pumping and driving (although somewhat average) “Corena.” Another classic is the keyboard packed “Tarquinia” which is a keyboard heaven for fans of the genre.

The poppy singalongs “Forever in My Heart” and “How Many Miles” provide the happy summertime vibes, where “Ain’t No Goodbyes” and “Young Desperados” are the ballads stating the band's fine tuned feeling for perfectly orchestrated intimate moments, especially “Young Desperados” with its great harmony vocals and delicate piano playing standing out.

My only complaint is perhaps the often less than inspired vocals by Lars Aass. Flat and lacking depth and power, the vocals downgrade the amazing keyboard and guitar driven songs. On the other hand, it has to be said that even that is a minor complaint.

MTM Classix strikes again with this gem. Their tenth anniversary injected the label with more fuel and passion in order to keep going strong. The Classix division certainly contributes to the label's high profile for top notch releases. With the others that are lined up for future release, we have a lot to look forward to!

Da Vinci: Jarle Maloy - drums; Bjorn Boge - bass, vocals; Dag Selboskar - keyboards, vocals; Lars Aass - lead vocals; Gunnar Westlie - guitar, vocals.

For more information, check out http://www.mtm-music.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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