Poley / Rivera – Only Human 2008

Only Human is Poley/Rivera’s debut but in name only as the two have worked together on Poley’s previous solo albums “Collateral Damage” , which could have very easily been called Poley/Rivera also. On Poley’s release “Smile” Rivera was not as involved in the recording process but he did write two of the best songs on the album. If you are familiar with Ted Poley or Vic Rivera’s other projects, namely Danger Danger and AdrianGale then it should be no mystery as to what you are going to get with “Only Human”.  Pure unadulterated melodic rock filled with hooks, harmonies, great solos, and sing along choruses.

“Keep on Fighting” starts the album off and it is a straight up rock anthem, hopefully Rivera’s name and talent will get a lot more exposure with this album because he is an outstanding guitarist. He plays this song like he is having the time of his life. Poley’s voice sounds as great as it ever has, this song should go over great live.

“Top of the World” is the kind of radio friendly melodic rock song that made Poley famous. Head bobbing, foot tapping, roll the windows down and sing a long lyrics. This song deserves some radio airplay. Rivera shines on this song also and he does it without a big flashy solo.

The title track “Only Human” is a mid tempo ballad that would easily fit on any Danger Danger album filled with keyboards, huge background vocals and huge guitar sounds. The solo is outstanding with classic 80’s feel.

“Did We Just Have A Moment” is another radio friendly rocker. Poley/Rivera work so well together on every song it just seems like they click perfectly.

The rest of “Only Human” is filled with more radio friendly rockers “The Bigger They Come” and “Delirious” really stand out. “Crossing This Ocean” is a classic ballad you would expect from Ted Poley. “N.W.S.” will appeal to fans of heavier melodic rock.

Danger Danger’s new album may not come out until 2009 some time but the Danger Danger family has been well represented with two very good albums this year. First Marcello/Vestry’s debut earlier this year and now Poley/Rivera’s debut. If you are not a fan of Danger Danger or other similar bands “Only Human” is not going to do much to change your mind. But if you are a fan of Danger Danger, Firehouse, etc. etc. Poley/Rivera will be a great addition to your collection, definitely worth the price of admission.

01. Keep On Fighting (4:49)
02. Top Of The World (3:18)
03. Only Human (4:51)
04. Did We Just Have A Moment (3:36)
05. Insanity (4:24)
06. N.W.S. (3:56)
07. The Bigger They Come (4:12)
08. Delirious (4:29)
09. Fire At Will (4:08)
10. Breathe Deep (4:57)
11. Crossing The Ocean (4:57)

Ted Poley Lead Vocals
Vic Rivera Guitars, Bass, Drums, Vocals

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