40 years is a long time in the making regardless what it pertains and even more so when it's been a secret that whole time. So what am I talking about? To step back in time somewhat I've been a Thin Lizzy supporter for about 45 years and they are my all-time favourite band. Subsequently I have kept tabs on what the band members have done since the band broke up. Therefore shock and surprise are not strong enough words when news filtered through about the unveiling of Scott Gorham's long-lost band The Western Front and 'Eureka', their up to now unreleased debut album. Conceived in 1986 'Eureka' was set to go but the band encountered problems with Atlantic Records, who was going to release it, and subsequently a collective decision was made to shelve the project. Roll on the years the band changed their collective mind deciding the time was now right to unleash 'Eureka' which brings us to the present.
So who are The Western Front? Apart from Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy, Black Star Riders) on guitar and bass guitar, there's Marty Walsh on guitar and bass guitar as well. Currently an assistant professor at Berklee College Of Music he has worked with Supertramp, John Fogerty, Dolly Parton, Neil Diamond, Agneta Fältskog and Donna Summer to mention but a few. Richard ”Moon” Calhoun who has worked with amongst others Neil Young, Chaka Khan, Andy Gibb and Gap Band, sings and plays additional drums. Darrell Verdusco on drums has collaborated with Mark Knopfler, Van Morrison, Ry Cooder, Eric Clapton, KBC Band and Starship but that's just a fraction of his cv. Keyboardist Derek Bergmann's biggest claims to fame is playing with Jeff Barry and Yvonne Elliman. Last but not least is lyricist Dennis O'Donnell. Supertramp drummer as well as Scott Gorham's brother-in-law Bob Siebenburg produced the album as well as contributing percussion, additional drums and Linn drums. As you can see they are no slouches and that's apparent in both the music and the production. The Western Front play AOR from the eighties, a genre that hasn't aged too well in many cases but that's not a problem with 'Eureka' which boils down to excellent production, great lyrics and excellent musicianship.
'Rain' reaches out and immediately grabs a hold. Somewhat faster where the chorus digs in and takes the song away – we all fall but get up as the rain washes away all the troubles. 'Chain Of Light' rocks throughout and quickly gains attention. Similar to 'Rain' in its approach while calling out to make the most of our lives. 'I Would Rather Be Lonely' is AOR through and through in the best possible way. Impeccable playing, hooks to die for and very nice vocal harmonizing. Better to be on your own than to be constantly let down.
In hindsight The Western Front should have released 'Eureka' back when it was recorded but of course if labels are messing about it's hard. Personally I am glad the album is finally available, even though I was completely clueless about its existence. What's presented is top notch music any which way you look at it especially being 40 years old and it still moves you. Who knows if The Western Front will release another album. The members are all busy elsewhere and they are getting up in age, so embrace 'Eureka' and enjoy its presence. What a nice surprise!
-Swedebeast
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