SUNSTORM – Restless Fight

AOR / melodic rock band Sunstorm return with their eighth studio album, Restless Fight (2024), which is the follow-up to Brothers in Arms (2022). This being their third with vocalist Ronnie Romero, the record marks the continuation of their renewed energy and return to form since Romero joined the band. Sunstorm combines the irresistible hooks and vocal melodies of Journey with the crunching guitars and ‘70s flavor of Rainbow. Romero, being no stranger to the spotlight, has quite a resume. He’s performed with notable bands such as Lords of Black, Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow, the Michael Schenker Group, and more recently, Elegant Weapons, founded by Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner. He’s also released two covers albums, Raised on Radio (2022) and Raised on Heavy Radio (2023), and one album containing all-original material titled, Too Many Lies, Too Many Masters (2023).

AOR / Melodic Rock At Its Finest

As mentioned earlier, Restless Fight is a continuation of Sunstorm’s melodic rock / AOR sound that fans fell in love with early on. “I’ll Stand for You” kicks off the album in a banging way with majestic keyboards, a memorable chorus, and blazing guitar work. “Love’s Not Gone” is filled with melodic hooks to die for and Romero’s vocals sound fantastic. He sounds fantastic throughout the whole album, but just go with it. “Hope’s Last Stand” takes a darker turn, showing off the band’s heavy side. The fading guitar solo at the end is worth the listen.

The title track kicks things up a notch with its fire and aggressiveness, making it the perfect rocker to get the blood pumping. However, don’t drive with this song, unless the risk of getting a speeding ticket is no big deal. “Running to You” and “Against the Storm” are more lighthearted, yet just as memorable and fun. With the big keyboards, ear candy production, and soaring vocals, the Journey vibes are unreal on Restless Fight. “In & Out” also has a darker tone, yet the keyboards balance out the heaviness and the chorus is insanely catchy. “Take It All” closes the album on a strong note.

The Good and the Bad

Sonically, Restless Fight sounds amazing. Again, the production is really good, not too raw and not too polished, the guitars sound crunchy and heavy, yet not enough to bleed one’s ears to death. Even the drums sound fantastic. Also, the keyboards don’t overpower the rest of the instruments. There’s a belief that keyboards should not be in rock music. The same can be said for horns and harmonicas. However, when not overdone, the keyboards can actually complement the music by adding melody and commercial appeal.

Romero’s raspy and distinct vocals make him stand out and shine like a bright star. No major complaints about the songs, for the most part. The only real downer would be “Without You,” the album’s only ballad with cliché lyrics and a silly concept that’s been done repeatedly. The passionate guitar solo for that track is quite good, however.

Final Assessment

This current ‘80s melodic rock renaissance is not going away anytime soon and while some bands miss the mark, there are also some that hit the nail on the head; Sunstom being one of the bands for the latter. So, give Restless Fight a chance because it’s worth it.

Album Tracklist

1. I’ll Stand for You
2. Love’s Not Gone
3. Hope’s Last Stand
4. Shot in the Dark
5. Without You
6. Restless Fight
7. Running to You
8. Against the Storm
9. In & Out
10. Dreams Aren’t Over
11. Take It All

Band Lineup

Ronnie Romero – lead vocals
Aldo Lonobile – guitars
Andrea Arcangeli – bass guitar
Antonio Agate – keyboards
Alfonso Mocerino – drums