If you're a fan of mid to late 80's AOR, then look no further than Swedish rockers SEVEN WISHES. Originally formed back in 1998 and after a long hiatus between releases, the band is back with their long anticipated third studio release “Destination: Alive.” A rather profound title considering all the problems the band went through with their previous record label, but MTM Music has welcomed them aboard with open arms and Destination: Alive is an absolute triumph for the band and AOR music in general.

Singer Pelle Andersson's vocal talents are astounding. While his style is very comparable to that of Don Dokken, his voice itself sounds eerily reminiscent of a young Jon Bon Jovi or Mike Tramp (White Lion) during the “Fight to Survive” era. Guitarist Toby Andersson is scintillating with his commanding rhythms, potent melodies, and articulate solos, which seem to be heavily influenced by the likes of George Lynch (Dokken) or Ronni Le Tekro (TNT). Bassist Tony Westgard and drummer Leonid Karlsson's pounding double-kick drums are apparent throughout the CD and solidify this talented quartet.

After the title track, a short musical intro, Destination: Alive kicks right into high gear with “Cross My Heart,” a high-powered arrangement with some nice guitar work which definitely sets the tone for the entire album. Continuing to make a statement, the next three songs (“Won't See Me Cry,” “Fortuneteller,” and “Follow the Stars”) remain very energetic while “Fortuneteller” stands out as the most commercial sounding track on the CD.

Track 6, “Goes Around Comes Around,” is one of my favorite songs on the album. It really showcases Pelle's vocals while maintaining a strong chorus and some outstanding rhythm and lead guitar. “Time to Say Goodbye” is your typical power ballad. While it includes a nice guitar solo by Toby, the lyrics are rather conventional making this probably the weakest song on the CD.

Karlsson's double bass kicks in once again for “See Through The Lies” which is a nice prelude to my favorite track “All That I Wanted,” an impressive AOR classic which reminds me of Dokken in both it's composition and arrangement. The CD then winds down with “Picked Up My Pieces,” another better constructed ballad called “Gone With The Wind” which again features some extraordinary guitar work and a haunting chorus, and finally ends on a strong note with “Like A Card house” which will have any AOR fan begging for more.

If you are a fan of bands like Dokken, TNT, or White Lion, then SEVEN WISHES is the band for you and Destination: Alive breathes fresh life into a musical genre, which has all but disappeared in the United States. So sit back and relive the glory days of AOR and 80's metal with SEVEN WISHES.

Band:

Pelle Andersson: vocals

Toby Andersson: guitar

Tony Westgard: bass

Leonid Karlsson: drums

Track List: