Reviewed by Ian Webber

After a significant absence of nearly 20 years, Mass returned to recording in 2007 with 'Crack The Dawn'. With this their latest release on Escape Music they certainly display the talent that won them many fans in the '80s. This is solid melodic rock with a heavy edge that is full hooky guitar riffs and a classic, well produced feel. Louis St August has the perfect voice to complement the smooth textures on this 12 track offering. Cuts such as "Falling From Grace" and "The Right Side" are littered with twiddly guitar solos and big choruses that contain some nice harmonies. There is, however, a generous helping of acoustic led power ballads that take you back to the days of the mullet hairstyle. It is easy to draw comparisons with a raft of bands such as Stryper or Boston, but although the '80s roots of this band can clearly be heard, this material manages to avoid sounding cheesily dated. Lyrics are well written and avoid clichés too. Mass show that they still have much to offer.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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