House of Lords or James Christian? The question remains as the new House of Lords album, “Come To My Kingdom”, was released on March 14 2008. James Christian is still the lead vocalist and has also taken up the role of keyboardist and producer. The classic sound of Giuffria is no longer there but the power and energy of James Christian remains.

This album adds another element in the great comeback of the band and it contains 14 tracks of impressive hard rock. Elements such melodic and progressive rock can be detected in the album but generally sounds more like AOR than previous albums. It’s certainly a relief to hear an instrumental piece start off the album as a mini introduction of the band revived yet new sound. Triumphant is the word I’d use to describe this one minute intro. It definitely blends well with the following song named as the album itself. Catchy choruses with heavy rhythm guitar and impressive riffs throughout the album. The songs that are most notable are “Come to my Kingdom”, “I Need To Fly”, “Another Day From Heaven” and the acoustic remix, and “I Believe”. I might be crazy but I think I can hear the voice of James Christian’s wife, Robin Beck. It wouldn’t be the first time that she has collaborated in of House of Lords albums. “Another Day from Heaven” is a fantastic ballad with an exceptional melody line. The European bonus track is a remix of this ballad. Only two requirements: piano and vocals. Outstanding performance that brings to mind early 20^th century music and a mild resemblance of Queen, as far as vocal arrangements.

Before I say anything else I would like to apologize for being biased. I love melodic and hard rock and AOR…but my ideals of production are stuck in the 80’s and early 90’s! Not to say that the production of the album is bad, as far as sound goes, but compared to some of their older albums, such as “Sahara”, this might be a bit disappointing. Living in 2008 as we do, the sound production is good. On a further note, by the time I got to the 7^th song I felt that an hour had past. Maybe what should’ve been done was to leave out a couple of songs in the end. The songs individually really are incredible but all together might be a little tiring for some.

The revival of House of Lords in a modern tune should not be missed. For everyone who is expecting to hear the former glory of the band, you won’t really get it. But you will not be disappointed in their new reign!