QUEEN + PAUL RODGERS: THE COSMOS ROCKS

I never did have high hopes on this one - Freddie Mercury just cannot ever be replaced - and not just because of his idiosyncratic voice, but also because of his extraordinary songwriting and arranging skills. And, not surprisingly, this shows on The Cosmos Rocks. The songs here are more reminiscent of Bad Company and Free than of Queen - they are too simple, too straightforward, too unimaginative. Not only that, but the album is way longer than it should have been. That being said, if you are a fan of classic rock, after a few listens you'll find a few good numbers, like It's time to shine, We Believe and Say it's not true. They are nothing to write home about, though. Paul Rodgers has a decent voice, and does his best to do the impossible, namely, replace Freddie, and although he fails, he succeeds in evoking compassion with the listener. Overall, I'd say this is a decent effort, but a long, long way from Queen at their best. 2,5/5