Following on from the re-issue of Michael Bolton's classic Everybody's Crazy album Rock Candy have unearthed another gem, this time in the shape of the self titled debut album by Romeo's Daughter, initially released way back in 1988.

Formed by Craig Joiner and keyboardist Tony Mitman from the ashes of Artic Fox and joined by vocalist Leigh Matty the trio hooked up with manger Olga Lang who in turn hooked the band up with her then husband Mutt Lange, at the time riding high on the success of Def Leppard's Hysteria. Lange produced a three song demo for the band that became the basis for this album, namely I Cry Myself To Sleep At Night, Wild Child and Don’t Break My Heart. Joining these three to round out the album were the excellent Heaven In The Backseat, Velvet Tongue, and the simple yet exquisite  ballads Hymn (Look Through Golden Eyes) and Stay With Me Tonight.

The excellence of the songs themselves coupled with a typical Lange production and  co produced by John Parr should have meant Romeo's Daughter were destined for big things. Unfortunately this wasn't the case and the band eventually slipped quietly away only releasing one further album in the shape of 1993's Delectable. However if any proof were needed about just how good both the band, and this debut album were, you only have to take a look at the artists who have covered songs from it. Heart, Eddie Money, Chrissy Steel and Starship amongst others and that really says all that needs to be said.

Romeo's Daughter is an absolutely essential album for all fans of AOR and, even if you bought the vinyl first time round, Rock Candy's re-mastering makes the whole thing sounds even better now than it did back in 1988, and they've tacked on three live tracks to boot and that's not to mention the sixteen page booklet filled with photos and band history.  Just but it, simple really you won't regret it.

Let us know your views on Romeo's Daughter

Track Listing

Heaven In The Back Seat
I Cry Myself To Sleep At Night
Hymn (Look Through Golden Eyes)
Inside Out
Colour You A Smile
Don't Break My Heart
Wild Child
Velvet Tongue
I Like What I See

Line Up

Leigh Matty - Vocals
Craig Joiner - Guitars/Vocals
Tony Mitman - Keyboards