For those of you into 80’s metal, FM has come out with their newest album. Thirteen is a masterclass of nostalgia and hits all the right notes for a big dose of cheesy fun.

If you aren’t familiar with 80’s music, it relies heavily on electric keyboards and synth combined with guitars, and it’s all there in spades on Thirteen.

Continuing to make music since their strong debut in 1986 with Indiscreet, FM’s sound has not shied away from the synth and electric keyboard (played by Jem Davis). Davis seems to magically pour his soul into the notes, as do all of the other musicians across this eleven track marvel.

1. Shaking the Tree
2. Waiting on Love
3. Talk is Cheap
4. Turn This Car Around
5. Love and War
6. Long Road Home
7. Be Lucky
8. Every Man Needs a Woman
9. Just Got Started
10. Fight Fire with Fire
11. Be True to Yourself

Steve Overland on vocals has great range on this release. He hits the high notes with ease and transitions smoothly to his gruffer sound. The guitars (Steve Overland, Jim Kirkpatrick) meld well with the bass (Merv Goldsworthy) in every song. I love the rhythm, and the extra flair of the solos give a good overall sound.

To finish off the great sound for this fantastic album are the drums (Pete Jupp). The timing for the bass beats fits well, and the fills throughout each song aren’t forced at all.

Shaking the Tree seems to combine all the elements I’ve mentioned to the highest degree. More than many others on the release, it offers powerful electric and synth vibes with a slow and deliberate melody. The guitars don’t mess around, matching the timing of the drums. And the bass on this track is quiet, but effective.

This album isn’t without its faults, however. It would be nice if the band could liven up certain aspects of their songs. One of my favorite songs, Talk is Cheap, could have been slightly quicker in tempo. The lyrics and context of the song feel slightly off with the deliberate motions. I kept feeling the urge to tap my foot an extra beat faster.

The second issue I had with several songs is that I couldn’t distinguish some of the bass from the rest of the sound. Perhaps just a little volume boost on that baby is the key. Give Goldsworthy his proper due.

Overall, I couldn’t recommend Thirteen enough. It’s so good to hear my favorite era of music get some love. Give FM’s latest offering a listen, and pass along the news that 80’s rock/metal is still alive and well.

Review by: John Cicotte

FM’s Thirteen is available on all major music streaming platforms.

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