Search - Aldo Nova :: Blood on the Bricks

BRIGHT LIGHTS BECKON AGAIN?

Kevin Dobbs "dragonboots" | Perth Western Australia | 01/25/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The most accessible Aldo Nova release came at the dawn of the ninties. Assisted by his friendship with Jon Bon Jovi in production and songwriting the only downside could be that this is very much like a Bon Jovi album. It is a small consideration because the album is so good it becomes a mute point. But trust me you do think it when you first hear it. I believe Nova and Bon Jovi had written together for the "Young Guns II" CD and this may be the continued efforts of those sessions. Certainly the music does all the talking with the Sweet-like title track (complete with Ballroom Blitz style mid vocal section) and early highlight "Medicine Man" which is very atmospheric with a hypnotic Indian chant aspect. "Bang Bang" is a little annoying and does indeed sound like a "New Jersey" cast off. The Nova of the "Twitch" era returns in "Someday" which is a triumph down to its heart felt words and their heart felt delivery, a big power pop ballad. "Young Love" is street poetry in the Jovi-esque "Livin On A prayer" Westside Story kind of way. It's hard not too like. "Modern World" talks about the many things not to like about modern life in America and is the deepest thing lyrically on offer complete with it's anger. "This Ain't Love" is the least successful outing on this release trying a little too hard to be late eighties hair rock that had already fallen from grace. "Hey Ronnie" is another love on the roof tops ditty and although it is pure schmaltz you can't help but fall in love with it and surely must be another highlight. "Touch of Madness" and "Brightlights" close things out with the closing cut being the best of the two ending things in similar style to how it all began at track one, a guitar workout. A very good release and certainly recommended for Aldo and Bon Jovi fans alike. All but forgotten by the rush towards the doom and gloom of grunge. Buy it to play whilst driving at fast speeds in the car and too remind you that music can be fun."

Blew me away

LBL | - | 11/30/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I just picked this up from the bargain bin in the local music store after hearing that ANova was a metal guitarist. This is the best Bon Jovi album and Bon Jovi (the band) doesn't even play here!

I can't believe this CD wasn't well publicized, it must be one of the best 80's melodic releases I have ever heard. Up there with Giant as best undiscovered rock gems!"