Reviewed by Andy Long

Not as immediately impressed with this album as 1 was with the previous release "Unwrap'. Chains Off play keyboard laden Euro-rock in the vein of later period Jerusalem. There are some interesting musical moments like the bluesy influence of "See You There" and the funk rock "Partytime" (splashes of Extreme). Overall though I found the album to be lacking in the necessary power. Some of the songs were crying out for a driving bass riff or a searing solo. These guys are good musicians, guitarist Frank Muklestad is given the chance to shine in the 1 Corinthians 13 based "Love" and shine he does, showing his ability for both dexterity and feel. So all in all 'Forever1 is not a terrible album by any means, it just seems to be lacking that undefinable something. Chains Off are a great band who show some real promise and I look forward to future releases.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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