There are many artists who have made a significant impact in melodic hard rock over the last decade, but there is one who has quietly lit up the genre and made us take notice. In noting his masterful performances with some of rocks elite artists, it is his solo projects that stand out at the pinnacle of melodic hard rock. The artist that I am speaking of is none other than Joel Hoekstra. We know of his masterful playing in Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Revolution Saints and even Cher, but the Joel Hoekstra’s 13 albums are where the spotlight truly shines. With the release of the latest album “Crash Of Life,” Hoekstra has cemented himself as one of hard rocks elite.

After listening to this album’s promotional tracks and interviewing Joel, pre-release, I have had time to sit with this album and have deeper perspective when listening. There are albums that continue to get better with each listen and this one is without a doubt one of them.

Starting with the opening track “Everybody Knows Everything,” there is a system that has been perfected; melodic, heavy, driving and a flow of harmony that touches the soul. This is exactly how melodic hard rock should roll. From the well injected keyboards to Girish Pradhan’s soulful groove and Joel’s ripping, fine-tuned guitar solo, the opening track makes a statement for what this album’s journey will take us on.

I have a few favorites, but the title track “Crash Of Life,” is just in my wheelhouse. I love the vibe here that is reminiscent of Jeff Scott Soto’s Talisman and Takara album’s, a full-on, harmony driven, ripper that I listen to over and over, enjoying like it’s the first time.

With “Damaged Goods” the soulful groove sails the waters and continues the fine flow of melody and power-rock. The listener knows that this album is right where it should be.

Another of the standouts hits with Track 4 “Torn Into Lies,” a thought provoking, deep-minded, power ballad that just oozes feeling and emotion. Pradhan’s vocal delivery reminds me of the great Phil Lynott in places, Jeff Scott Soto in places (Jeff Provides Backing Vocals on this album), but he sets himself apart with notes that just rise above and set him apart. This guy is on his way to elite status and this song just cements the deal. Hoekstra’s playing intertwines itself perfectly and takes this over the top.

Where the melodic, mid-tempo is apparent throughout, there is plenty of dark and heavy with “Far To Deep” which rips with a tidal wave of grinding guitar and head banging kick. My headphones are pounding at this point and knowing that there is more to come just makes me elevate the volume.

“Not Tonight” offers the vintage, Whitesnake groove to open and then powers into yet another fantastic power rocker. Joel’s finely injected guitar fills mixed with Pradhan’s shrill screams provide a roller coaster of changes done to perfection. The groove in this album is just incredible.

The diversity is prevalent throughout the album and “Over You” brings a darker, balladesque piece which has a ton of emotion. Again, Hoekstra’s playing takes center stage with so much feeling, groove and rhythm it just sears into your core.  

“I Would Cry For Love” brings it back to the heavier and kicking side and “Don’t Have Words” offers more of the same with a more commercial chorus, cranking vocals and Pradhan showcasing his range. Both tracks bring more of a darker side, melodic and powerful with choruses that are memorable and etch elegantly into the flow of the album.

With “Find A Way,” there is a funky groove that pulls itself into a big chorus and a straight forward crunch. Excellent and smooth melodies with some vintage organ arrangements mixed in offers yet another cool element to the track.  

The combination of styles that hit across the album stands out and none more than with “You’re Right For Me” which has a slight bit of a bluesy, Cinderella meets Georgia Satellites vibe. The track still has the nice mix of all with Hoekstra’s stylish playing and Pradhan’s funky and soulful delivery.

The odyssey ends with a more commercial, slower and modern “Through The Night.” With a clean guitar flow and easy, relaxed vocal, this one polishes off a really great melodic hard rock album.  

The 3^rd album for Joel Hoekstra’s 13 is definitely a charm that offers something for every melodic hard rock fan. With so many releases hitting during the year, it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between many similar sounding albums all running together; this is not one of those albums. With “Crash Of Life” Hoekstra showcases why he is one of hard rocks elite. With 12 powerful, well-written gems that are the pinnacle of melodic hard rock in 2023, this album is truly one that I highly recommend. Hit play, sit back and enjoy one of this year’s best releases.  

“Crash Of Life” tracklisting:
Everybody Knows Everything
Crash Of Life
Damaged Goods
Torn Into Lies
Far Too Deep
Not Tonight
Over You
I Would Cry For Love
Don’t Have Words
Find A Way
You’re Right For Me
Through The Night

Time: 0.55.31

Line-up:
Joel Hoekstra -Guitars
Girish Pradhan -Lead Vocals
Vinny Appice -Drums
Tony Franklin -Bass
Derek Sherinian – Keyboards
Jeff Scott Soto- Backing Vocals

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