PLACE VENDOME - Place Vendome

Posted: 03/04/07

Reviewed by: Dirt

Category: Melodic Rock / Melodic Hard Rock

Label URL: www.locomotiverecords.com  Released: 07/18/06

Label URL: www.frontiers.it  Released: 10/10/05

Artist URL: www.michael-kiske.de

This project, named after a famous square in Paris, created by Louis XIV in the 17th century, is fronted by former Helloween vocalist Michael Kiske.  Rounding out the lineup is Pink Cream 69’s Dennis Ward (bass, guitar, keyboards & background vocals), Uwe Reitenauer (guitar), and Kosta Zafiriou (drums), and Vandenplas’ Gunter Werno (keyboards).  Produced by Ward, the music ranges from melodic rock to melodic hard rock.  The rippin’ opener, “Cross The Line,” is Kiske’s finest performance since he left Helloween, as it spotlights his range, the beauty of his voice, and how great he sounds when he rocks.  As Kiske fans know, he has publicly stated his dislike for metal and his decision to abandon the Helloween style, so it's great that “Cross The Line” comes close to the more rocking material on Helloween's Chameleon and Pink Bubbles Go Ape.  The other material on the album is classy melodic rock – some clearcut ballads (“Too Late,” “Heaven’s Door,” and “The Setting Sun”) and others that are a bit more peppy and rockin' (“I Will Be Waiting” and “I Will Be Gone”)  But no matter what the style, Kiske sounds great, the backing vocals are big, and the instrumentation and production is bright as hell thanks to the production of Dennis Ward.

The only problems that Place Vendome might face include:

• The band name Place Vendome sounds ethereal and progressive, and doesn’t fit the melodic direction of the music.  If I didn’t know Kiske and Ward were in the band, I would probably look right over this cd. 

• Michael’s spotty path as of late with SupaRed and his restlessness with his heavy metal past might turn off potential listeners.  I think he's confused or turned off many of his fans since leaving Helloween. 

The Bloody Truth:  This recording has been getting rave reviews and for good reason, this is classy melodic rock album - probably the best sounding and catchiest I've heard in quite awhile.  There's a nice balance of tempos so it doesn't come of lethargic or too much like soft rock.  Will it appeal to Helloween fans?  Only if they are open-minded and like commercial 80s rock as well.  Kiske exhibits pure emotion, and overall this album is not something to rock out to - although it certainly has upbeat moments throughout.  Place Vendome is for fans of impeccably produced sweet sounding melodic rock.