Stephen
In my opinion, Newman can be considered one of the most talented British musician and criminally underrated. Not only he's a multi-instrumentalist, he can also write great hooks and superb ballads, and this second release is a proof that Newman deserved a better appreciation and recognition. The first track, 'One step Closer', is a brilliant opening piece, the chorus is pure gold and hummable, and I'm convinced, this along with the midtempo AOR-ish ballad, 'Should've Been Me', are the true winners of this album.
'Desperate Hours' and 'The Call' are another midtempo melodic rock gems; 'Don't Walk Away' and 'Fire of Love' are also lovable. There are two passable tracks here, 'Taboo' which is a hard rock filler and 'Strongest Heart', even though not too bad, this acoustic ballad is too flat and quite boring at some places.
This album also stretched nicely with variety, you can find faster paced songs and also a slower moment with the first half of the album is practically stronger than the second, but with only couple of duds, 'One step Closer' is surely one of the most exciting melodic rock release of 1999. Recommended!