Search - Harem Scarem :: Higher

Outstanding melodic rock for 2003

Perry M. Koons | Crownsville, MD United States | 01/18/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I recently discovered Harem Scarem through this album, after reading outstanding reviews from melodic rock, power pop, and metal fans. I purchased this CD in November and quickly set out to finish my entire Scarem collection, as this band quickly went to being one of my favorite all time melodic rock artists. Since most of their albums are out of print and not available (or very expensive when they are available), that makes this fairly low priced disc even more attractive to the fan looking to rediscover Harem Scarem or the uninitiated just looking for some simply great pop rock music. Song for song I believe it is the most consistent, catchy album of 2003. For those not in the know, Harem Scarem began as a mix between Def Leppard and Whitesnake with absolutely great vocals, guitar playing, and songwriting, and through the years (and a brief name change to Rubber) they updated their sound a bit to sound more modern. Rest assured, the hooks and guitar leads are still present, and the range of influences (Leppard, Queen, Beatles, Boston, and even newer power pop acts like Marvelous 3 on a few tunes) make this one of their all time classic CDs. Why this album doesn't have at least 4 hit smashes on radio is beyond me, I think these guys could make a killing writing tunes for newer up & coming acts.Best Tracks:
"Waited" - A modern sounding pop rocker that wouldn't be out of place among the best of Goo Goo Dolls and other melodic rock tunes of today, but this song really takes it over the edge with a mind blowing chorus, superb guitar solo, and perfect production.
"Torn Right Out" - Fans of the Rubber era will dig this one, the lyrics are a bit simplistic and so is the main riff, but it's a catchy tune with great vocals.
"Higher" - The only real ballad on this CD, this is melodic heaven. The Def Leppard influence is really here with the massive vocals and hands in the air feel, and when that last chorus kicks in with the key change, you feel like you've gone to melodic rock heaven. A song that I can't imagine ANYONE disliking.
"Run And Hide" - Yet another song with a perfect smash chorus, I hear some Boston on this one, this would have been all over radio in the 80's.
"Lost" - The closing tune on this CD keeps the energy high, great guitar kicks the tune off and propels this catchy tune. It's hard to pick faves on an album just loaded with melodic treats like this but I guess the chorus just puts it slightly ahead of other gems like "Gone" and "Lies"."