Cartesian Dreams

The House of Lords have always been about easy-to-digest, radio-friendly rock — in an unmistakably '80s mold. And since this is the path they've followed since the get-go, it's hardly surprising that on their 2009 release, Cartesian Dreams, they merrily continue in this direction. It would be entirely believable if you were told that these lads hadn't thoroughly studied an album from another band since Hysteria, because everything — the vocals, the music, the guitar solos, the lyrics, the production — recalls the aforementioned era of big hair and big riffs. If you're a die-hard pop-metallist, then each new House of Lords release must be a true treat — as evidenced by such part-Foreigner/part-Survivor ditties as "Born to Be Your Baby" and "Joanna," and of course, the obligatory power ballad, "Sweet September." And the chaps even get a bit "heavy" here and there, such as the album's opening title track. The '80s are proudly on display throughout House of Lords' Cartesian Dreams.