SONGS IN THE KEY IN ROCK

In addition to being the former singer for DEEP PURPLE, GLENN HUGHES has enough muscial credits in his arsenal to put a lot of other artists to shame. He's obviously absorbed a lot about song creation from his past gigs, because when he releases his own music, he pulls it off effortlessly (or at least it seems that way).

There's something about the classic rock guys that came up during the 70s/early 80s that makes them very good at creating melodies and hooks. Granted, they might not be the most cutting edge songs, but they're far and away more well-constructed than many of the songs on rock radio.

If you're into the whole bluesy, funk-flavored, hook-driven rock, with killer vocals, you'll want Songs In The Key Of Rock. Hughes' voice is in excellent shape. "Gasoline" will prove that this guy's vocal chops are in outstanding condition, and he knows how to construct killer rock songs.... not ones that're going to get played on rock radio in the U.S., unfortunately, but killer songs nonetheless.

"Higher places" slows down the pace of the disc a bit, but still manages to show off Glenn's amazing voice. "Get You Stoned" features RED HIT CHILI PEPPERS drummer Chad Smith, and has a laid back, bluesy vibe that allows Glenn to showcase his amazing pipes. "Change" has a cool opening riff, and a gueat appearance by BILLY SHEEHAN. on bass.

Songs In The Key Of Rock is like a refreshing little oasis in a wasteland of crappy, sub-par rock music.