A.O.R.: Bewitched In L.a. (A.O.R.): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Is it still necessary to present the A.O.R. formula? What was originally Frédéric Slama's project has become a duo, with Tommy Denander systematically accompanying the Frenchman for several years, while the principle of inviting several singers on each new album seemed set in stone. Nevertheless, Paul Sabu recently seemed to have caught the attention of the master of the house, so much so that a compilation was specially dedicated to him in 2021 ("The Best Of Paul Sabu"). For "Bewitched In L.A.", which continues the tradition of tracks incorporating the initials of the City of Angels, the Franco-Swedish pair decided to try the trio adventure for the first time, integrating the man as a full member.

This move to a tighter line-up does not, however, mean any notable changes within the A.O.R. galaxy. Indeed, the ingredients that have made up the project's identity for 23 years now remain the same. Westcoast-oriented AOR with deep roots in the 80s, regularly illuminated by gleaming solos, this is what awaits the listener of 2023 once again. The shadows of the genre's legends once again hover over certain tracks. Journey comes to mind on 'Breaking The Rules', but especially on 'You Don't Have To Tell Me Lies', which seems to recycle the introduction to 'Seperate Ways'.

As for the rest, you can put your right hand on the steering wheel of your convertible, your left elbow on the door, and take to the highways along the Californian coast with your Ray-Bans on your nose. There's nothing to disturb the comfort of listening to these nine compositions, from which we'd like to single out 'Manifestation Of Human Desires', with its heady chorus and fragrances worthy of Jim Peterik's rich oeuvre. The almost seven-minute 'Never Give Up On Love' also grabs your attention at the end of the album, with its steamy introduction, delicate build-up and light bluesy touches. However, there's not much to disturb the quietude of a sometimes linear whole either, to the point of not really noticing any difference between the single 'Behind Closed Doors' and the follow-up 'Dangerously Smart'.

The 80s and the Californian coast can continue to haunt our memories, as this "Bewitched In L.A." is nothing less than a perfect new soundtrack for the melancholic of that era. Nevertheless, this guilty pleasure still doesn't allow the Slama/Denander pair to take their project to the next level. In fact, one wonders whether their aim is more to please themselves than to make a mark on the history of the genre. - Official website

A.O.R.

BEWITCHED IN L.A.

PERRIS RECORDS

A.O.R.