The only solo album from 'Don Dokken' and a very respectable effort it is. A lot of this is down to the excellent band 'Don' put together for this one-off gem, guitars are taken care of by ex 'Europe's' 'John Norum' and 'Billy white' while the rhythm section is courtesy of former 'Accept' bass man 'Peter Baltes' and current day 'Motörhead' drummer 'Mikkey Dee'. A commendable lineup that doesn't disappoint, this is supported by a very polished production, in fact, some might find it a little too slick for their liking. Musically this is similar to 'Dokken', with a strong blend of light and heavy material, generally a little mellower in places, but still very comparable.

First up is the melodic but swift rocker 'Crash 'N Burn', here we see 'Don Dokken' on superb form as he puts on a great performance making the strong lyrics just roll with conviction and elegance, he is well backed up with a sharp instrumental break and steadfast rhythm work. Even better though is the glorious '1000 Miles Away', again the vocals are outstanding and further more, are supported by stunning backing harmonies, lyrically this is just top notch and the chorus is guaranteed to stay in your head all day. More delights take the shape of 'When some Nights' a mid tempo number which blends melodic choruses with more up tempo verses, again the penmanship and guitar work are crisp and make for a thoroughly enjoyable track. The tempo is dropped for the balladsy 'Forever' and while a solid slower number, not especially outstanding despite a 'Dokkenesque' flowing guitar solo. Better in my opinion is the sweeping light-weight rocker 'Living a Lie', the guitar work is especially strong with more sweet hooks and intricate solos, the chorus could be perhaps a little stronger, but still a decent track. Less convincing is the watery ballad 'When Love finds a Fool', a real lethargic effort, that is neither enjoyable or memorable. Back on track is the gutsy rocker 'Give it Up', after a clever introductory speech, the tempo really hits in for an outstanding yet potent number, the rhythm work is unrelenting and effective, while the guitar licks and soloing are nothing short of brilliant and help make this another album highlight. The pace is dropped again for the only single release from the album the ballad come rocker 'Mirror Mirror', for me the chorus carries this songs as 'Don' and the boys sound so sweet on the vocal harmonies. Next up is 'Stay' a fair balladsy number, complete with plenty of heartfelt vocals and solid guitar solos from 'John Norum' and 'Billy White'. It's the closing two tracks that really hit home how good this release is though, both are hard and fast paced and positively enhance this admirable solo album. First up is the dazzling 'Down in Flames', not to sure about the computer style vocal intro, but this picks up into a remarkable rocker, brimming with splendid vocals and the customary sweet guitar licks. Finally we are gifted the darker sounding 'The Hunger', here the rhythm section lays down a punishing backdrop for some magnificent vocal harmonies, this is interspersed with lighter sections that act as an impressive contrast an help make this the heaviest cut, one of the most exceptional.

Probably not as good as 'George Lynch's' first solo outing of the same year, but still a damn fine release that should please any 'Dokken' fans, not to mention anyone who appreciates fine 'Hair Metal'.