Live "The Turn"

One of the most polarizing of lineup changes would have to be concerning a new vocalist, because not only do we have to adapt to the new "voice" of the band, but prepare for the opportunities it could provide; to revitalize a band by a change in sound, or simply re-energize the muse. What was jarring was the rooster crow in the form of "Siren's Call," aptly titled because this is what convinced me to give the record a try, and only so because "I count the ways you turn me on..." came from a band that released an album entitled "Birds of Pray" in 2003.                                                                               So is the absence of Kowalczyk the catalyst for this change? I could drop album titles or begin Throwing Copper, relay a Secret Sahmdi, both possessed that fire, and say no. Bands change their sound; progress and regress, plateau, plummet, or rise, or simply lose their passion.  Not that the previous aughties entries in their catalog was devoid of it,  and this is coming from an outsider, but it was lacking an ingredient those two aforementioned records possessed; is it angst, refurbished and repurposed? I would say that is a possibility, and while the nine remaining tracks do not seem as electrifying, they are all worthy of a listen: Be it the duet in "Natural Born Killers", or the flames that had  engulfed "6310 Rodgerton Dr."; the instrumentals that, "By Design," could score a Bond film; if to run away is what you "Need Tonight," make sure you run with a purpose, and use common sense; the soaring vocals in this next one may give you "Strength To Hold On." "We Open a Door" is another electrifying number, as well as the latter, and with "He Could Teach the Devil Tricks" I have little to say. There is a country twang in "Until You Came Around," in case you're wondering.               "Breaking it is easy, now we'll never know how well it was made" is the standout from "The Way Around is Through" which is taken into consideration when reviewing, even if some music might not be "well made," which is why I prefer to focus on the positive aspects, and constructively criticize because the music is often forged with heart, and it is not in my nature to trample or completely disregard someone's feelings.