Translated from Japanese

This is the first full length album from the band Challenge. Challenge is Allison Lindsay (vocals) and Arno Verstappen (Acoustic Guitar). The CD also features the talents of Fernand Bos (bass), Ronna Cohen (keyboards), Toss Panos (drums) and Wayne Cook (grand piano/Hammond B3). Whose credits include touring and recording with artists such as Alice Cooper, Steve Vai and Sheryl Crow.

Allison teaches vocals at the Sabine Institute in LA (established by Elizabeth Sabine). The institute is known for coaching popular singers like Axl Rose, Dave Mustaine and Dann Huff (Giant).

Although other magazines describe Challenge as progressive, to me the music has more of a pop feel which is driven by the beautiful tone of the bluesy acoustic guitar. There's a good balance between the acoustic guitar and the other instruments and the absence of electric guitar is certainly not missed. The result is an acoustic approach well suited for such a melodic sound. Not to mention a distinct chemistry between Allison's vocals and Arno's acoustic guitar.

This style of basic melodic rock may not be considered trendy but Challenge doesn't care and I like that attitude. Many bands could learn a lesson from Challenge. This is one band you should definitely give a listen to.