Night Ranger returns with their tenth studioalbum, Somewhere in California, in their betterthan 30 year career. This new album might strike abetter chord with long time fans who weredisappointed with the so-called more modern soundof the previous Hole in the Sun. Somewhere inCalifornia runs more towards that anthem-likearena ready sound that made the Eighties famous.Somewhere in California opens strong withautobiographical Growin' Up in California, amelodic rocker with a summer, top downconvertible, feel. That arena anthem characterkicks in the following songs. Lay It On Me isheavier, but catchy, melodic rocker with strongguitar (but that's every here). Bye Bye Baby hassentimental feel wrapped up in a strong vocalarrangement and the hook of a big chorus. FollowYour Heart offers a steady pace, a bit of blues,and another hard rock anthem. Another song readyfor the open air is semi-ballad Time of Our Lives,beginning with simple piano and vocals and thensoaring to conclusion. No Time to Lose Ya is pureAOR melodic rock suitable for framing in thesummer sun or evening of radio airplay.This opening momentum continues in the latter halfof Somewhere in California, with a few curiousturns. Live for Today is another fine andambitious ballad (with a bit Beatlesque feel?),but seems a little drawn out. It's Not Over isanother solid rocker, yet trips over itself withrepetitiveness of the chorus. Rock N Roll Toniteis exactly what you would expect: an anthem torock; its rowdy and gives the band a chance to getraucous. However, it's not quit as gripping assome of the earlier tunes. Nevertheless, these areall fine songs showing Night Ranger significantskill in musicianship and song craftsmanship. Tothis end, Somewhere in California closes with SayIt With Love, a rather inspirational, if notsentimental, piece that finds Night Rangerreturning to that accessible AOR arena rock sound.Honestly, on Somewhere in California Night Rangersounds better than ever. This is solid,well-crafted, melodic rock: accessible,infectious, and entertaining. It's a perfectrelease for your Summer play list.