FM - Thirteen (Japan, 2022)

2022 will see the release of melodic rock stalwarts FM's thirteenth studio album, the appropriately titled "Thirteen". Produced by the band, "Thirteen" is yet another high-quality album that furthers the band’s standing as one of the premiere melodic rock entities in the world. The band's current line-up, in place since 2008, has spent the last decade plus writing, recording, and touring and thus is an incredibly gelled and cohesive unit. The rhythm section of bassist Merv Goldworthy and drummer Pete Jupp anchor FM with a rock-solid backbone, while guitarist Jim Kirkpatrick delivers delicious hooks and melodies with keyboardist Jem Davis adds lush layers to the band's dynamic sound. And what more could be said about Steve "The Voice" Overland, whose golden pipes have easily withstood the test of time and who still sings like an angel, while adding delightful guitar parts to the proceedings. The five-piece once again bonds together as the mighty unit FM on "Thirteen" and delivers beautiful melodic rock that their fans have come to expect.