AUTOGRAPH – Beyond

The latest release by Autograph is a bittersweet affair in that it is both musically solid and a hugely enjoyable listen but sadly, it also marks the last recorded output by founding member and bass player extraordinaire Randy Rand as he passed away before this well-written album saw the light of day.

The compositions are bursting with melodies and classy riffs, and there is something about the record’s uplifting vibe that makes it a nice antidote to the outright toxic times that we are currently living in. Relatively simple and direct yet not without their fair share of nuances and textures, these compositions are crammed with good ideas. Autograph sound inspired throughout and conjure up plenty of stirring choruses and tasty hooks for you to indulge in, and there is a charming 80s retro feel to the disc without it ever turning into pastiche or coming across as a cliche. Songs such as ‘Gotta Getcha’, ‘Run for Your Life’, ‘Flying High’, and ‘Everything’ make for an engaging listen. Lovers of hard rock ought to make a note of this excellent offering.