Hardline--Double Eclipse

Hardline--Total Eclipse (1992) Rating--9.1

Disclaimer--this is not a true metal band, but rather an extremely solid AOR/Hard Rock outfit. The most notable name here is Journey guitarist Neal Schon, although the music is heavier than any of the Journey material. Solid, catchy tunes; excellent songwriting throughout. It reminds me a little of the second Lynch Mob album. Not quite as heavy or "dark" sounding, but similar in that the riffs are extremely strong and backed well by a bass-and-drum groove. Highlights include every song but one, and there are 12 on the disc. If you're into melodic metal or just plain good hard rock, this disc should be in your collection.
HOT CHOPS: The harmony part of the chorus to 'Takin' Me Down' is oh-so-sweet--in the killer sense. Hot Cherie has a cool crunching guitar sound, and the acoustic instrumental 31-91 gave us a preview of Schon's wonderful emotional work, which he would later expand upon on his 'Beyond the Thunder' LP.
TRACK LIST: Life's a Bitch/Dr. Love/Rhythm From a Red Car/Change of Heart/Everything/Takin' Me Down/Hot Cherie/Bad Taste/Can't Find My Way/I'll Be There/31-91/In The Hands of Time

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