Metropolis

Metropolis is a comeback album on which FM, using smooth vocals, refined keyboards and fine guitar, sounded the appeal of British melodic rock in a modern way. Reuniting after a hiatus of several years, the band returned without losing any of its old character — if anything, with matured expressiveness. Accessible choruses and calm playing coexist, and the songs stay in the ear without strain. On “Wildside,” “Unbreakable,” “Flamingo Road” and “Metropolis,” the composure born of long experience and craft that puts melody first are fully displayed. Songs like “Over You” and “Bring Back Yesterday” breathe the band’s neat lyricism too. Comeback album though it is, its polish is in no way inferior to the peak years. Announcing that FM is alive and well, centered on Steve Overland’s singing, it is a full record that vividly proclaims the success of the restart.