Bobby Caughron 
Dokken returns to release their 13th studio album, ‘Heaven Comes Down’, their first new album in 11 years. During that time Don Dokken had a multitude of health issues including arm paralysis after a neck and spine surgery. Many people have been questioning Don’s vocal abilities over the last few years as well. Well, I’m here to bear witness that this new Dokken album is everything a fan of classic Dokken could want (short of the classic lineup reuniting).
Don and the band have returned triumphant with one of the best albums Dokken has released since “Back For The Attack”. Opening the album with “Fugitive”, the band is hell-bent on delivering some instant classics that hold up to Dokken’s extensive list of great songs over the years. Don’s voice sounds great throughout the entire album and one listen should quiet all the naysayers who have any questions about his vocal quality on this album.
Like many fans, I grew up listening to the classic lineup of Dokken, but let’s give credit where it’s due. This lineup kills it musically. Jon Levin’s incendiary solos are as close to George Lynch’s style as you’re likely to hear and he truly shines on track after track. Songs like “Gypsy”, “Fugitive”, “Is It Me Or You?” and “Saving Grace” give him ample opportunity to blaze through some great licks and solos, and the backing rhythm section of bassist Chris McCarvill and drummer BJ Zampa are a perfect fit on this album. I simply can’t say enough great things about this entire album. “Heaven Comes Down” was a long time in the making, but absolutely worth the wait. There aren’t any filler songs here and it’s pretty damn close to being a perfect album.
There are not many bands from the Sunset Strip era releasing new albums these days, especially albums this satisfying. I for one am grateful when a band like Dokken releases not only an album of new material but an incredible album of this magnitude.
“When Heaven Comes Down” has Hard Rock Album Of The Year written all over it.
Do yourself a favor and buy/stream this spectacular album when it’s released on October 27th, you can thank me later!
Keep up with Dokken at the sites below:
https://www.facebook.com/DokkenOfficial
https://www.instagram.com/Dokken_official
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