It is perhaps a strange thing to say in these days of the terminal decline of the multinational music business that all that made it what it was back in its heyday is still alive and well in a country like Lithuania. Alive Way are only too happy to provide corroborating musical proof with the radio friendly songs that make up their album “Visas Valandas” (Every Hour) being the evidence.
Whether singing in their native tongue or adopted English, Alive Way have that easy on the ear sound that highlights an ability to write the kind of songs that people might actually want to buy if they were given the chance. “Out of Control” is a fine example of this with Justinas Stanislovaitis making the most of the opportunity to turn his voice into an emotional weapon while “Kodël” successfully, and without a hint of irony, revives the big rock ballad. It’s just like the good old days of FM radio have returned.
“Visa Valandas” is a credible album for a number of reasons not least of which is the professionalism that is demonstrated by the band with those polished songs being matched by, too often forgotten in these lo-fi days, more than capable musicianship and that is something to be commended. If only there were still a music business out there ready, willing and able to exploit them.