Truth in a Structured Form

Also known as ARS. This is their first album since 1982.
Personnel: Ronnie Hammond (vocals, background vocals); Steve Stone, Barry Bailey (guitar); Dean Daughtry (keyboards); Sean Burke (drums); Brendan O'Brien , Buddy Buie (background vocals).
Recording information: Southern Tracks Recording Studio, Atlanta; Stdio One, Atlanta.
Photographer: Rick Diamond.
In many ways this is not a true Atlanta Rhythm Section album, whether in a "structured form" or not. To start with, the album packaging refers to the band only as ARS and not as the Atlanta Rhythm Section. Apparently, some ex-members of the group protested the usage of the full moniker, so the members utilized their often-used initials on this album. This conflict was later resolved. However, the main difference between this album and other true releases is the music. The group attempts to be more of a straight-ahead rock outfit on this album and they lose their soulfulness in the process. Lead vocalist Ronnie Hammond just doesn't sound like himself. Most of the drumming is a monotonous 4/4 beat throughout the album. And worst of all, the songs are uninteresting and unmemorable. The Atlanta Rhythm Section can usually be counted on to produce some nice poppy Southern rock tunes, but none are to be found here. ~ Tim Griggs