Somewhere in California

Night Ranger fans are likely to be extremely excited about this 2011 release. Guitarist Brad Gillis pulls out all the stops and the songs are as catchy and widescreen as the good ol’ days when “Sister Christian” was making its way up the charts. The immediacy of “Somewhere In California” and “Lay It On Me” make for radio-ready anthems meant for taking the top down on the convertible and letting the summer breeze whip up everyone’s hair. “Bye Bye Baby (Not Tonight)” snarls with a street-tough swagger that has a Bob Seger heartland tug to its glittering arrangement. “Follow Your Heart,” “It’s Not Over” and “Rock ‘N Roll Tonite” pulse with a re-found sense of purpose. “Time of Our Lives” wanders over to the piano for a moment of reflection. “Live For Today” is a spirited power ballad. The bonus track, a cover of the legendary AC/DC song “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” is an essential ending to a furiously charged hard-rock pop album.