Album Review: Altered by 20 Twenty – A Hidden Gem in AOR Rock
If you’re into melodic rock with a touch of soul, Altered by 20 Twenty is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. Released back in 2013 under Refuge Records and Rock Rarities, this US-German collaboration nails the AOR (Adult Oriented Rock) vibe without trying too hard. It’s got catchy hooks, heartfelt lyrics, and enough guitar riffs to keep your head nodding all day long.
Let’s talk lineup real quick. You’ve got Roscoe Meek shredding on guitar, Greg Herrington laying down solid beats on drums, and Ron Collins absolutely owning the mic with his lead vocals. Not to mention Earnie Chaney tickling the ivories like it’s nobody’s business. Producer Billy Smiley ties it all together, making sure every track feels polished but not overdone. And kudos to Bob MacKenzie for executive producing—this guy knows how to get the best out of a band.
Now onto the tracks themselves. The album kicks off strong with “Fine Line,” which sets the tone perfectly. It’s upbeat, punchy, and has this killer chorus that sticks in your brain like gum on a hot sidewalk. I found myself humming it hours later while doing random chores around the house. Then there's “Get Altered,” the title track, which is just straight-up fun. The energy here is infectious, blending crunchy guitars with lyrics about breaking free from life’s monotony. Honestly, it’s impossible not to crank the volume when this one comes on.
Other standout tunes include “Caught Up In Heaven” and “Hold Your Head Up.” They bring a mix of reflection and optimism, perfect for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up. And props to Gerry McAnelly on bass—he adds depth to these tracks without hogging the spotlight.
What makes Altered special isn’t just its musicianship; it’s the authenticity. This isn’t some corporate-backed project designed to sell millions. Nope, it feels like a bunch of talented dudes pouring their hearts into something they love. That passion shines through loud and clear.
Here’s the thing though—if you’re expecting super experimental stuff or groundbreaking innovation, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you dig classic AOR vibes with modern twists, you’ll dig this record. Oh, and fun fact: listening to it feels kinda like finding an old mixtape at a garage sale. You know, the kind where you go, “Who even made this?” only to realize it’s become your new favorite playlist.
So yeah, give Altered a spin. Who knows? Maybe you'll end up liking it as much as I do—or maybe you'll hate it and wonder why I wasted my time writing about it. Either way, isn’t discovering new music half the fun?
