Another year, another Richie Kotzen import CD from Japan. Normally, I would give this guy a MUCH higher review, but I really was a bit disapointed with this latest release. This is not to say it's BAD necessarily, it's just marginal compared to his previous works (particularly Slow and What Is - two gems). This new disc is very well produced and Kotzen definitely knows how to to pen a tune, especially the title track "Change", which would do well in the U.S. (if given the chance...which it most likely will not be).
One thing I have noticed is that some of the material is starting to sound much like songs on his previous albums. I also think that the inclusion of an un-plugged MR. BIG song, "Shine" demonstrates Kotzen's abilities as a catchy pop song composer. The guy knows how to grab you with a melody and make a lasting impression. By and large, many of the tunes on this disc are not as catchy as some of Kotzen's previous work. Do I recommend it? Of course, to any Kotzen fan out there, you will not be disapointed, but I don't think you will feel Kotzen has made any 'changes' in his life or his music in the last couple of years...with the release of Change.
