N.O.W – Bohemian Kingdom (2013)

N.O.W. is the brainchild of bassist Alec Mendonca, a gifted – as it seems – musician and songwriter. A debut album was released somewhere in 2010 called “Force Of Nature” with none other than Philip Bardowell (of UNRULY CHILD , AOR and PeterCriss/Ace Frehley fame) on vocals and now Alec strikes back. I do not remember having listened to the 2010 first CD, so there’s no space for comparison here.

In its futuristic cover artwork, “Bohemian Kingdom” sees a set of songs that shall fill your need for melodic Hard Rock looking clearly at the American continent. It seems that FOREIGNER, BOSTON and JOURNEY have been a big source of influence for Mendonca, hence you will enjoy the melodic lines here plus the efficient refrains and smart hooks. Thankfully, the album seems to have some short of identity if you give it some more spins and – two thumbs up – the production is not as plastic as in countless other releases in the specific sub-genre. The vocals are shining here and the keyboards provide a fitting background for the guitar to unveil the beautiful harmonies.

It’s a good album, “Bohemian Kingdom” – it really is. It won’t turn your world upside down, but it’s neat and honest in its entirety. And it’s better than tons of other average releases in the melodic/AOR style nowadays.

01. I’m Alive
02. I Feel Divine
03. Don’t Go Now
04. Strong Enough
05. Mary-Ann
06. Tonight Is The Night
07. Bohemian Kingdom
08. Leon’s Going Soft
09. Cassie’s Dream
10. No One Can Feel It’s Over

Lineup:
Philip Bardowell – Vocals
Alec Mendonca – Bass, Vocals
Jean Barros – Keyboards, Piano, Vocals
Juno Moraes – Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin
Diogo Macedo – Drums

Backing Vocals: Mike Wallace, Matti Alfonzetti, Philip Bardowell, Alec Mendonça, Church Choir of Mission Viejo – California.
Saxophone & Flute: Zé Canuto
Guest Musicians: Anders Loos on Bass and Lars Chriss on Drums
All the songs written, arranged and co-produced by Alec Mendonça * Except ”I’m Alive” written by Alec Mendonça & McCoy.
Produced and Mixed by: Lars Chriss Sweden
Vox Engineer: Mike Wallace at firepan Studios CA
Mastered by: Mike Lind

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