GRAND DESIGN – Viva La Paradise

Viva La Paradise is the third release from Swedish Melodic Rock band Grand Design. Formed in 2005 by singer/producer Pelle Saether, Grand Design was quickly embraced by the AOR and Melodic Rock communities. Lead guitarist Janne Stark, guitarist Dennis Vestman, bassist Stefan Westerlund, and drummer Joakim Jonsson round out the current lineup, and with a sound reminiscent of Hysteria era Def Leppard, Grand Design carry on the proud tradition of many multi tracked layers for a very full, almost over produced sound.

In fact, track 2, “Rawk “N” Roll Hysteria” might even be a tongue-in-cheek nod to that very influence. Track 7, “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” also has a very lush, Def Leppard-esque quality. Grand Design has a reputation for being at the forefront of the Swedish/European Melodic Rock community, and this record teeters on the brink of being Pop Rock.

Very slick production, catchy hooks, and right in the pocket performances. Nothing groundbreaking, nothing jaw dropping, just very solid, radio friendly AOR/Melodic Rock. Fans of Def Leppard, Grand Design, AOR music, Melodic Rock, Pop Rock, and Hair Metal/*0’s Rock should check out this latest effort from Grand Design. Well worth a listen.

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