King Of Hearts - King Of Hearts (2019)

KING OF HEARTS had their first shot at musical stardom back in the late ’80s. However, their record label at the time didn’t released their debut album which eventually saw the light some ten years later under the title ‘1989’.
Forward three decades, original members vocalist Tommy Funderburk and guitarist Bruce Gaitsch (Chicago, Richard Marx, Madonna) decided to record new music after many requests from fans of the band’s debut album.
And the result is their wonderful comeback album album, self-titled “King Of Hearts“.
Rounding out the band this time are impressive bassist John Patitucci (Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock), drummer Keith Carlock (Steely Dan, Toto) and producer, songwriter, arranger and keyboardist, CJ Vanston (Toto) – the latter was also involved in the original 1989 album.
Then we have guest musicians including Timothy B Schmit (Eagles), Peter Cetera (ex-Chicago) and Def Leppard’s Phil Collen. Yep, “King Of Hearts” is pure melodic fest.

On ‘California’ you can almost feel the sunshine pouring out of the music, whilst ‘Say It Now’ recalls Toto complete with a snazzy keyboard solo. Tommy Funderburk has lost none of his melodious singing style and it is a real delight to hear him taking the mic spotlight, instead of being in the background.

Not many bands make albums like this anymore, rich in sound and melody – ‘real music’ as the band call it.
King Of Hearts, along with Boulevard and Soleil Moon, have produced some of the best AOR music in recent years.

Tracks:

01. Don't Wait (3:46)
02. California (3:51)
03. I Need You (4:26)
04. I Don't Want Your Love (5:21)
05. Givin' Up Easy (3:49)
06. Say It Now (4:20)
07. Rose Maria (4:08)
08. A Simple Song (3:44)
09. I Met A Girl (3:42)
10. What If They Lied (4:03)

Personnel:

Tommy Funderburk – vocals
Bruce Gaitsch – guitars
John Patitucci (Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock) – bass
Keith Carlock (Steely Dan, Toto) – drums
CJ Vanston (Toto, Spinal Tap) – keyboards

guests:
Timothy B Schmit (Eagles)
Peter Cetera (ex-Chicago)
Phil Collen (Def Leppard)
Chris Rodriguez (Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald)
Janey Clewer (Sarah Brightman, George Benson)