Stronger is the second album from Rain and is the third release in as many months to feature former Jaded Heart front man Michael Bormann. Rain, who are based In Norway, met Bormann in Rhodes and released their debut through American label Kivel records. Well that’s background what about the album? 

Stronger is a good melodic rock album with modern overtones and a big production courtesy of that man again Michael Bormann. On the whole Rain come across as a blend of Bon Jovi and Def Leppard, just listen to some of the backing vocals and you'll see what I mean. Indeed Bormann has been accused of sounding like Jon Bon Jovi in the past and at times he does so on this album but even this reviewer, who is not the biggest fan of JBJ, can over look the fact when the songs are this good. 

The album opens with the heaviest track 'Do You Like It', and  yes I do. With an opening riff that reminds one of Kingdom Come, or could that be Led Zeppelin, its the perfect introduction to Stronger. This is followed by Insobriety, another equally good song, that details the advances of insobriety and comes over all Def Leppard with that vocal interplay. After the excellent guitar and keyboard interplay featured on 'Get Over It' the band serve up an acoustic led ballad in the shape of 'Crazy' a song that is somewhat reminiscent of Ugly Kid Joe in places and follow up with a second ballad, this time 'Die For You' which is piano led and most definitely brings Bon Jovi to mind.

'Flesh And Blood' is very much in the style of the track 'Conspiracy' from Bormann’s solo album with big acapela vocals and a driving bass line. 'Let Me Be Your Favourite' is most definitely a favourite, all gigantic riffs and an almost Hanoi Rocks/Eyes feel to it whereas The Other Side is another huge power ballad featuring an excellent guitar solo, very much in the Ritchie Sambora mould. Changing pace completely the band then deliver 'Deserve', which is almost power pop in feel. Think of a heavier version of the Rembrandts and you'll get the idea. Right By Your Side sees the acoustic guitars take centre stage once again and then the album is closed out with Love Song, great lyrics and an almost Queen like opening. 

Overall, although I can see were the Bon Jovi comparisons have come from in the past, Rain have much more than one string to their bow. This is a strong, very well thought out and produced record and if they continue developing in the same way album number 3 has the potential to be something very, very special indeed.

Let us know your views on 'Stronger'

Track List

Do You Like It
Insobriety
Get Over It
Crazy
Die For You
Flesh And Blood
Let Me Be Your Favorite
The Other Side
Deserve
Right By Your Side
Lovesong

Line Up

Michael Bormann - Vocals/Bass/Keys
Per Helge "Peppa" Bruvoll - Drums
Lars Forseth - Guitars
Tore Moren - Guitars