As their name subtly suggests, Double Vision are a well-known and very talented Foreigner tribute band hailing from the US, but this self-titled effort of theirs contains material that was penned solely by themselves, which makes this their first proper output containing original material. So, what are we to make of this thirteen-track debut of theirs then?
Although indebted to the aforementioned legends Foreigner in terms of tone and style, Double Vision do not fall into the trap of sounding like a cheap clone or a mere carbon copy of their heroes, which is obviously commendable and a good starting point for further exploration and immersion on the part of the listener. Melodic hard rock coupled with AOR is a gorgeous and irresistible thing when done right, and these gentlemen undoubtedly know what it means to craft an anthemic rock tune. The content of the disc practically oozes experience and stellar musicianship.
Double Vision is a robust piece of work in terms of the overall quality of the songwriting, and it sports many great and worthwhile ideas. Although a few of the compositions appear slightly bland and lack a certain charisma not to mention that the band has yet to establish a strong and unmistakable musical identity of their own, there is plenty to admire and enjoy here, and it marks the beginning of what could potentially turn into a fantastic adventure for these chaps. Some brilliant albums by this US sextet might well see the light of day in the future – the potential is undoubtedly there – and if songs such as the accessible ‘No Fool for Love’, the driven ‘Youphoria’, the irresistible combo of ‘Silence is Louder’ and ‘Church of an Open Mind’, and the moving ‘A Stranger’s Face’ are anything to go by, we have plenty of stuff to look forward to and get excited over.
If hook-laden and atmospheric rock that leans towards Foreigner’s underrated Agent Provocateur and Inside Information LPs sounds like your idea of fun, then Double Vision is just the kind of thing you need in your life, as it boasts a confident and uplifting energy that is invigorating. Keep your eyes peeled for this group.
Double Vision will be released via Frontiers Music Srl on July 11.
