PARADISE INC. – Time

The voice of Evidence One, “Lizard Schulz” — a mixed pattern of Jon Bon Jovi and Tobias Sammet, has made yet another breakthrough in his singing career by joining the Brazilian Melodic Hard Rock crew of Paradise Inc., who sealed a wonderful fate via their debut album entitled Time.

Before reaching the depth of the band’s music, a few words have to be said about the work behind the release. Dennis Ward of Pink Cream 69, who has had previous works with some great artists of this subgenre, showed once again his magical touch and helped Paradise Inc. to sound amazingly dreamy, clear, and powerful all together. This album’s production is one of the best things that could have ever happened to this talented band.

Paradise Inc.’s musical direction isn’t far from Bon Jovi, House Of Lords, or even Evidence One. In general, this album should be a real treat for every Melodic Rock/Hard Rock fan out there. It’s highly accessible and commercialized, but without being too soggy and cheesy. The themes behind the lyrics never seemed to stir over from pointing at love, relationships, and the like. The riffs throughout the tracks aren’t that special, but are suited nicely to the vibe of the tracks, while the lead section shows true emotion with great leads and catchy solo licks. As a great addition, the keys of Del Vecchio added another dimension of melody that enhanced the dream state and shape of the album. All in all, this band channeled a sweet harmonic sense through their music to create a number of memorable hits. “You”, “Not In Paradise” (featuring the outstanding vocals of Doogie White, the ultimate guest vocalist), “Time”, and “Wait And See” are some of the prime possessions this album holds.

On the other hand, with its might as a great Hard Rock album, Time is not that different from any other well-produced album of the same ilk. Moreover, the songs seemed rather similar as they all ended up with a reprise of the chorus layered by a rigid lead section that converges into a nice on-going lick. Some of those licks were too much alike.

Paradise Inc. walks the fine line of Melodic Hard Rock with amazing influences taken from the subgenre’s glory of the ’80s. They have a knack to stick to the roots and play it safe, but in the end they created something great, flowing, and harmonic.

Tracklist

1. Time
2. Close Your Eyes
3. Who’s Fooling Who
4. I Will Wait
5. Wait And See
6. No More Mistakes
7. You
8. Set Me Free
9. Steel Or Stone
10. Not In Paradise (Featuring Doogie White)
11. Steel Or Stone (Acoustic Version)

Lineup

Carsten “Lizard” Schulz – Vocals
De Grigo – Guitar
Marcos Peres – Guitar
Rick A. – Bass
Allan Juliano – Drums
Alessandro Del Vecchio – Keyboards