Jack Russell's new solo album "For You" has little resemblance with Great White's bluesy Hard Rock. Jack has fallen to earth and made an honest solo album in a more mellow style. Jack Russell's style is based in the songwriter tradition focusing on the songs itself. Not unlike Richard Marx and a softer Sammy Hagar.

I like this new approach, but must admit that sometimes I miss Mark Kendall's guitar or the special chemistry that Great White possessed. The new direction that Jack Russell has taken is not forced. You can really hear how he puts his heart and soul in every song and this album emphasizes his vocal abilities.

Don't know Why is among the best tracks along with the West Coast rocker Paradise. Both songs have an excellent guitar solo played by Bob Kulick. The sound on the guitars and the production in general are characterized by a very clean sound without any distorted sounds. Album highlight is the beautiful ballad Always. The song starts with an acoustic intro and then reaches climax in the pompous chorus with additional acoustic guitars, choir and strings. The Best is yet To Come is another highlight with its groovy melody and hooks. The song is pure Pop/Rock in the word's good meaning.

Normally I would recommend a listen before buying this album. However, this album only shows it's full potential when played a dozen times.

Overall the album is well played by an all-star band consisting of Bob Kulick, Tony Levin, Billy Sherwood and Vinnie Colaiuta. Jack's pipes are still in good shape and he sounds better than ever. Put Jack Russell on Tour with label mate Mike Tramp and then you would have 2 of the best voices in Rock today.

I regret the dissolution of Great White, but welcome Jack Russell as a solo artist.

Written by Michael
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
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Ratings

Michael: 7/10

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Comment by Christopher (Anonymous) - Friday, November 12, 2004

Great White toured extensively from the late 80's through the mid to late 90's. I saw them probably 8-10 times in concert over that time period. They were a very solid band that I think never really got the credit they deserved. However, as I've gotten older, my musical tastes have gotten heavier. Although I have many of their albums, I haven't listened to Great White in a number of years. I wish Jack Russell all the best, but the direction he seems to be going in is not where my musical tastes are at this time. I'm going to have to pass on this album.