Review by Woody

After the success of Far Cry’s previous album “High Gear” and subsequent appearance at MelodicRock Fest 2 in Chicago the band plan to capture that momentum and increase their popularity with their aptly titled second album “Optimism” and an appearance at Firefest.

Vocalist Mark Giovi has recently stepped down, but the voice you hear on this album is his. Band leader, guitarist Pete Fry is joined by Angelo Mazza (rhythm guitar), Ronnie Parkes (bass), Tommy John (drums) and the ever reliable Eric Ragno (keyboards) and features some outside writers including Jace Pawlak (Chasing Magic), Paul Logue (Eden’s Curse) and Steve Newman (Newman / Big Life).

Far Cry have produced a highly enjoyable album, although this time it’s a stronger, more raw and less by the book collection of guitar driven melodic rock. Fry’s guitar work in particular seems more organic and his playing is let off the leash a little bit more, giving the band’s sound more definition and identity. Pete’s playing definitely gives the songs more power and energy as well as the swagger that’ll get body’s gyrating on the dance floor and in the mosh pit!

Steve Newman’s contribution to the album for me is quite impressive, you feel his stamp and can imagine hearing him singing those songs and doing them real justice. I’m already a big fan of Steve’s lyric skills and he doesn’t disappoint here. Of all the tracks on the album it’s the ones which Steve has co-wrote that really stand out and capture my attention.

“Satisfaction” is a full on melodic rocker, with swagger and a hip backbeat. Fry lets rip with some chunky riffs and licks on this one. “Over and Over (and again)” is co-written by Newman and has probably the most noticeable Newman feel to it especially on the chorus. The song has a great vibe to it with some cool keyboards and intricate guitar playing. The huge melodic chorus has a melancholic edge to it and I absolutely love it.

“Nothing You Can Do” is more guitar driven, which sees Fry showing us what he can do. The chant along chorus should make this a popular live song and a stalwart of the bands live set.

“Better Than This” has a very Americana ambience to it putting me in mind of Springsteen & Petty. I like Giovi’s voice on this track; I think his style adds a real rawness and depth to the song, whilst “Love At First Sight” is more of a straight ahead melodic rock tune with a smoother feel and a memorable melody on the chorus.

“Now That It’s Over” is a powerful track with cool guitar licks and insistent punchy chorus. “Free” is another track with Tom Petty style to it – I really think Giovi’s voice suits this style.

“Best Of Me” is probably the most commercial song on the album, instant and sing-along, for me a near perfect song with a wonderful upbeat tone to it. This is without a doubt my favourite song with its killer chorus and lyrics. The wonderful keyboards and strong vocals on this track making it a real standout. “Too Hot To Hold” is a swaggering anthem with a dynamic chorus that’ll definitely make an impression and finally “When the Lights Go Down” is an old school “Poison” style track to close out the album.

With this album and Firefest on the horizon I’m sure this slab of guitar driven melodic rock will have their fans and those yet to join the ranks dancing into the small hours. A fun collection of traditional American melodic rock full of groove and swagger that is sure to please rock fans everywhere!

8/10

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