JOEL HOEKSTRA’S 13 – Running Games

Running Games is the second album by Joel Hoekstra’s 13. Even though the group bears the name of its lead songwriter and guitarist, “13” is a group effort. Returning alongside the Whitesnake axe slinger is Russell Allen (Symphony X), Vinny Appice (ex-Black Sabbath, Dio), Tony Franklin (Every Hard Rock band that had a record in the 80s), Derek Sherinian (Sons of Apollo), and Jeff Scott Soto (Sons of Apollo, W.E.T.). On Running Games Allen cements himself as the lead vocalist, whereas he split the duties with Soto on their first release Dying to Live.

The Album

Vocalist Russell Allen is powerful and melodic on “Finish Line.” You can hear the distinct voice of Jeff Scott Soto backing him up on the choruses. Joel lays down the catchy riffs and blazing solos accordingly. The song eludes to trying to find a happy ending that never seems attainable. “Hard to Say Goodbye” combines the elements of Melodic Rock with the Metal riffage of Hoekstra. The multi-layered vocal harmonies match the harmonic run of Joel’s fingers during the breakdown. “How You Do” is a stellar power ballad lead by a mix of clean and distorted guitars. Allen and Soto play well off of each other again.

“Heart Attack” is about a powerful love that can also be destructive. Russell’s impassioned delivery makes you understand just how real the struggle is. “Lonely Days” is a mid-tempo rocker than explores what can happen when you are left alone with your self-destructive thoughts. “Reach the Sky” is one of those songs that kick you in the rear and motivate you. The switching tempos of “Cried Enough for You” match Allen’s headspace lyrically. “Running Games” is a soulful ballad about giving up on a relationship but not really wanting it to end. Vinny Appice’s drums and Hoekstra’s guitar tones are quite unique in comparison to the rest of the album.

The Verdict

Running Games is high on melodies and soul, with a blast of Hard Rock guitars and showmanship. One of the more refreshing aspects of Joel Hoekstra’s 13 is that they don’t sound like any of the other bands that the members are associated with. In fact, you will be hard pressed to make comparisons between Joel Hoekstra’s 13 and any other band. They truly have a Hard Rock sound of their own.

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Tracklist

1. Finish Line
2. I’m Gonna Lose It
3. Hard To Say Goodbye
4. How Do You
5. Heart Attack
6. Fantasy
7. Lonely Days
8. Reach The Sky
9. Cried Enough For You
10. Take What’s Mine
11. Running Games

Joel Hoekstra’s 13 is

Joel Hoekstra – Guitars
Russell Allen – Vocals
Vinny Appice – Drums
Tony Franklin – Bass
Derek Sherinian – Keyboards
Jeff Scott Soto – Backing vocals