The Firm?s 1984 self-titled debut was released with high expectations and many proclamations about their Supergroup pedigree in the music press. Within the frame of those expectations, THE FIRM was something of an artistic disappointment. As a whole, the album is fairly predictable and laid back Album Rock without any the instrumental fireworks you?d expect from having a guitarist like Jimmy Page in the band. Tony Franklin?s fretless bass does add some character to the sound of the band, but the chemistry in their rhythm section is quite lacking overall. rAs much as I adore Jimmy Page as a player and songwriter, I felt underwhelmed by most of his contributions to this record. Paul Rodgers contributions really seem to carry this album. He creates some great hooks on songs like ?Closer? and ?Someone To Love?, but Paul?s sparks aren?t enough to create much of a fire. All in all, THE FIRM starts out as a fairly average rock album that eventually redeems itself to be at least a good one to revisit on occasion.
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