OVERLAND’s "Diamond Dealer" is the sophomore release from the one and only Steve Overland, the front man of Britain’s legendary band FM, but you already knew that, right???

No sophomore slump here, in fact, it takes the debut a couple steps further and brings Overland back to the forefront of great AOR releases. Truth be told, the debut was a bit quirky for the most part but things are all good again in 2009 with "Diamond Dealer". The album has it all; great songs, lush production, fine songs and of course the gloriously smooth vocals of Overland. If by some chance you are no familiar with Steve Overland’s vocal style, I’d say think a slightly more subdued Michael Bolton. Laugh if you will but back when Bolton was playing hard rock and AOR he knew how to rock.

Anyway, back to "Diamond Dealer" as this album is worth talking about. Checking out tracks like the opener "Train, Train", "Where is The Love" and "City Of Dreams" reminds me of the better moments of FM and the added guitar prowess of both Tor Talle and Martin Kronlund brings the songs a crispness and freshness that seemed to be missing from the debut.

The dreamy "Brave New World" and "Rise" showcase Overland’s vocals in fine fashion as does "Hearts Don’t Lie". The man knows how to use his voice and it shines through on these types of tunes.

"Bring Me Water" has those great pompy keys buried in the background and they add just enough to this cool tune which reminds me a bit of obscure British AOR-sters PEROUX.

Steve Overland is a classic voice in the AOR genre and "Diamond Dealer" continues his legacy with help of Talle, Kronlund and rest of his backing band on this one. Check it out if AOR is your thing.