Line Up: Jeff Scott Soto - Vocals; Marcel Jacob - Guitars, Bass; Fredrik Åkesson - Guitars; Jamie Borger - Drums, Percussion

One of the busiest singer in show business must me Jeff Scott Soto. I think I have heard at least 5 albums with his vocals on it in the past six months. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining! Soto's voice apparently grows stronger still, and though I admit his work had to 'grow on me' a little, I have learned to appreciate his voice and vocal technique, as well as his songwriting.

Talisman, however, is more than just Jeff Scott Soto. Talisman is a band that has been around for a while and has released numerous albums over the years. The first and self-titled album was released in 1990 I think, and since then some 7 albums have seen the light of day.

Soto (vocals), Marcel Jacob (bass), Fredrik Åkesson (guitars) and Jamie Borger (drums) have developed into one mean-ass band. Check out "Outta My Way". Is this an ass-kicking song or what? No frills, no gimmicks, no bullshit, but one mean-ass rocking tune! And this is just one of my personal favorites I singled out. Each and every song from opener "Skin On Skin" through to "Hell In Paradise" is a gem.

Another noteworthy aspect is how Talisman manage to make even a ballad an interesting song. Don't get me wrong; I don't have a thing against ballads. On the contrary; I love 'em. But I know many people have an aversion to the Bolton-factor. Well, rest assured; the ballads on "Cats And Dogs" are still powerful songs, so kick that rug away from the fireplace and enjoy.

Seriously folks, this is as good as it gets. I think Talisman deserves as much recognition as Giant did when they peaked. This album should appeal to many but you'll have to stumble upon it  somehow. Admittedly, Talisman is a band that I myself have overlooked for quite a while as well.

So off you go to your record store. Find it, check it out, and bring money, because I guarantee you'll want to buy it once you've heard it.

Frontiers has surprised me and disappointed me before, but this is simply an ass-kicking album that should be in your AOR / Melodic Rock collection. Simple as that.